Just like everything else in life weight loss is a choice. It’s a determination to embrace a lifestyle that, if you think about it, is larger than losing the weight. Why? Because it requires a new dedication to yourself. It also entails coming to grips with realistic expectations. Both of those ideas are life changers no matter what size you are. So here’s the big question, are you ready to be realistically dedicated to you?

If the answer is yes, then let’s turn our energies toward a game plan you can stick to. Make the process easier on yourself, set a goal weight that’s attainable in the short-term. For the first 8 to 12 weeks concentrate diligently on weight loss. When you do that you’ll naturally hit a plateau about 12 weeks in. That’s the time to start a maintenance plan. And that maintenance plan should also last between 8 to 12 weeks. That realistically gives you time on and ‘time off’ from a restrictive diet.

Maintenance has its benefits. One, you’re giving yourself a healthful break. Two, you’re teaching your body to establish a new weight set point. That means that once you’ve maintained your new weight for 12 weeks, you’ll prove to yourself you can keep the weight off. Then you’ll be confident to set another weight loss goal.

So ask yourself, “What’s a realistic amount of weight I can lose in my first 8 to 12 weeks?” Studies show the most reasonable, and the healthiest, weight loss rate is 1 to 2 pounds a week. So, losing between 12 to 24 pounds is not unreasonable for a three month time period. Keep it simple. Once you reach that goal, or if your 12 weeks of weight loss are up, switch to a maintenance diet.

By incorporating short-term accomplishments with long-term goals you can teach yourself and your body how to maintain a healthy weight for the rest of your life. Mission accomplished.

Set your goals, track your progress. We have some awesome features coming in XtremeFit to help you track your workout and diet. Use our mobile app today!