Curious how the ladies in Hollywood always seem to bounce back to their pre-baby weight so quickly? Well, they have access to the best trainers, chefs, and of course, plastic surgeons. But, there is one method that even we common folk can do at home to help shed those extra pounds: interval training.
Interval training alternates between high-intensity and low-intensity exercises and has been proven to be more effective at burning fat than traditional methods like jogging or using the elliptical. So whether you’re looking to get bikini ready for your next vacation or just want to drop a few inches before your high school reunion, read on for our crash course in interval training!
Set a goal for yourself – how much weight do you want to lose, and by when?
I’ve recently decided to set a goal for myself – I want to lose 10 pounds by the end of the month. It feels like an achievable target, and it’s important that I take steps in the right direction to reach it. I’m going to start by listening to my body when it comes to food and making healthier decisions wherever possible. Additionally, I’m going to make sure that I keep up with cardio, as well as weight training so that I can achieve optimal results. With a bit of self-discipline and dedication, I’m confident that this is something that will be within reach very soon!
Cut out all processed foods from your diet, including sugary drinks, white bread, and chips
If you want to get serious about your health, cutting processed foods out of your diet is a great place to start. It may seem daunting at first, but it’s worth it in the long run. Choosing unrefined grains such as quinoa and brown rice will increase your daily fiber and vitamin intake while avoiding white flour-based products like white bread and biscuits.
Cutting down on sugary drinks will also benefit your health, as studies have shown that reducing sugar in our diets can help slow down any aging processes that are already underway. And let’s not forget about chips – these often contain high levels of salt and fat, so try swapping for healthier snacks such as roasted veg with hummus or air-popped popcorn if you’re feeling peckish. The change might be challenging at first but your body will thank you for it in the future!
Eat more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats
Eating more whole foods is fundamental to supporting good health. Fruits and vegetables provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help protect against a range of chronic diseases. Lean proteins like chicken, fish, beans, and tofu are an important source of nutrition and can be enjoyed in a wide array of recipes. Healthy fats such as olive oil, nuts, avocados, and seeds also have nutritional benefits. Incorporating more whole foods into your daily diet is an easy way to make sure you’re consuming the right things for optimum health and well-being.
Incorporate exercise into your daily routine – even just a 20-minute walk can make a difference
Exercising is one of the most important and beneficial things you can do for your body. Even if you don’t have time to work out for an hour every day, it’s easy to incorporate at least 20 minutes of exercise into your daily routine – and it makes a big difference! A few activities that are particularly great for fitting in throughout the day are walking, stretching, or even doing a 10-minute workout video at home.
Even something as small as parking further away from the store or taking the stairs instead of using the elevator counts. At the end of each week, take note of any changes you’ve noticed in terms of energy levels or overall strength. You’re sure to be impressed with how quickly you see results when making exercise part of your regular routine!
Get enough sleep each night – aim for at least 7 hours
Getting enough sleep each night is essential for feeling your best and having the energy to face the day with a good attitude. Everyone’s body needs to rest for at least seven hours in order to function optimally, so make sure you set aside the time to rest. Whether it’s setting and sticking to a bedtime routine so your body knows when it’s time to wind down, or doing something calming before you drift off, like reading or meditating, prioritize getting adequate sleep every single night. Your body will thank you and you might even find it easier to stay focused throughout the day!
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is one of the most important habits to practice every day. Make sure you’re getting your recommended daily intake of water by drinking plenty throughout the day. Opt for Plain H2O instead of sugary drinks and energy beverages, as these can often leave you dehydrated in the long run. Water helps your body keep its natural balance and improves skin complexion, so start sipping today!
If you’re looking to lose weight, these six tips will help get you started on the right track. Making small changes in your diet and lifestyle can lead to big results over time. So cut out the processed foods, get moving, and watch the pounds start to fall off—it’s that simple!