I want to start by saying that I am a mother of 4. I have 3 sons, ages 15, 13 and 2 and one daughter who is 4 years old. Between my pregnancies my weight would go up and down with my heaviest being 170 pounds (I am 5’2). I am currently 112 pounds and have managed to keep the weight off for over a year. In addition to changing my eating habits and exercising more, here are 3 more things that helped me lose weight.
Source: Maria More / Maria More
1) I set short term goals. So often I meet people who say things like: “I want to lose 50 pounds by the end of the year.” or “I want to lose X number of inches by the Summer.” While goal setting is great, it is important to set realistic goals that can be achieved in a short period of time. For example, my long term goal was to lose 30 pounds in 4 months, but my short term goal was to lose about 2 pounds per week. Instant gratification is something that keeps me motivated. Achieving my weekly goals actually helped me reach my long term goal faster too. Also keep in mind that some fitness goals are not necessarily weight loss related. Consider setting goals like overcome bad eating habits (no fast food for 1 week) or getting more sleep (at least 8 hours per night).
2) I become “calorie conscious.” Weight loss, weight gain and weight maintenance is all about calories in vs. calories out (and the quality of those qualities). Personally, I didn’t realize how much I was overeating and how I slowed my metabolism down by only eating 2 big meals per day. I had to train myself to have bigger meals in the morning and afternoon and smaller meals during the evening. When I did this I noticed my stomach was much flatter in the morning because I gave my body time to process and burn everything I ate. Remember, to lose weight calories burned have to be greater than calories consumed.
3) I stopped comparing myself. There’s nothing more damaging to your weight loss journey that constantly comparing yourself to someone else. Although I draw inspiration from other women who have achieved their fitness goals, I don’t put pressure on myself to “be” like them. Remember, everyone is different and results vary from person to person. Make sure you focus on the person YOU see in the mirror and don’t stress about keeping up with someone else.
Be sure to connect with me on Facebook to see how you can join me for a Zumba (Latin dance fitness) class. Find me at: www.facebook.com/mariamoremedia
Do you have an inspiring story about a life change you’ve recently made? Tell me your story for a chance to be featured on “Transformation Tuesday.” Email mariamore@radio-one.com.
