Fighting obesity can be difficult not only physically, but psychologically as well. Failed attempts at losing weight can take its toll on your body and mind and it is crucial to prepared mentally and physically in order to successfully lose weight. The LiveLeanToday.com programs and their support system focus not only on creating an excellent fitness program, but invest a lot of time working with clients on the psychological side of fighting obesity. The following is a set of steps, some in preparation and some to be used through out the program to ensure success.

1. Recognizing the programs that run you

What are the things that hold you back? What are the excuses you make? What are the behaviors you engage in that keep you from obtaining what you want? People always say "Commit to change." Well easier said than done. It's very difficult to commit to going somewhere when we don't recognize where we are or where we've been. I learned that programs are the hard wiring within you that drives your thoughts and actions. Programs certainly can't be changed overnight, but you can reflect on what hurdles you create that make it difficult for you to be successful with your weight loss goals. Lack of self confidence can lead to procrastination and excuses. This is a program that affects many. Recognize your programs, behaviors, and attitudes and you'll better understand where you've been and where you are. Then you can move forward and begin reaching your goals.

2. Commit

Do what you say you are going to do. Have a plan and commit to executing it. Make your goals realistic, focus on short achievements, and celebrate small successes along the way. Have a goal of consistency. Your plan should include committing to consistent activity. Make a goal to drink 8 glasses of water a day or have a goal of adding a vegetable to every dinner meal during the weekdays. Success in these short term achievements will reap rewards in your long term weight loss goals.

3. Support system

Success is easy to attain when you have people around you. Tell your family, friends, co-workers that you have a weight loss goal, and let them help. Work with a Personal Trainer or Registered Dietician and let them help. A support system can come in the form of encouragement, companionship, and accountability, and can make your road to weight loss success much more enjoyable.

4. Sensible goals

Know your body, and be honesty with yourself about what is real. If you haven't already, consult a physician regarding what is realistic. You can also test to rule out any obstacles medically related to weight loss such as under active thyroid or food allergies that could inhibit your weight loss.

5. Consistency

Most important to any exercise program is consistency. With a little consistency you can develop habits, and then you'll be less likely to regress. You will reach your weight loss goals faster when you stay on track and don't let your hurdles get in the way. This goes for your diet as well. It's ok to have a cheat day, but make it just one. If you are consistent, you will get results.

6. Use portion control

5 small meals a day is the best way to speed up your metabolism, regulate blood sugar levels, curb hunger binges, and ultimately lose weight.

7. Eat fiber rich foods

Foods that are rich in fiber tend to be filling; therefore people will feel full and not eat as much. Studies have also found that a diet high in fiber can reduce the risk of heart disease, digestive problems and diabetes.

8. Cut calorie dense foods

Foods that have a high content of salt, sugar and flour can also be densely packed with calories. Twizzlers have over 250 calories in a small package, a half order of pasta with Alfredo sauce has 680 calories at many Italian chain restaurants, and a bagel has over 300 calories without cream cheese or butter. High salt content is found in calorie dense, low fiber, processed foods. Too much salt can lead to elevated blood pressure and is also associated with hindering weight loss.

9. Have an activity

There is no better way to maintain consistency in reaching your health and fitness goals than having an activity. When you enjoy doing something, it isn't work anymore. Activities such as hiking, swimming, cycling, racquetball and rock climbing are great examples of activities that can add versatility to your fitness program.

10. Work Hard!

Losing any significant amount of weight is not easy. Any good program will have a nice mixture of high and low intensity workouts with rest cycles built in. But I have seen too many people going through the motions of a workout and they never even break a sweat. Your body will respond to the stimulus that you create and will respond to loads and intensity. To keep your body from hitting a plateau, you must constantly challenge your body and find new ways to create stimulation to adapt to. With constant stimulation and variety will come consistent results.

Copyright (c) 2007 Charles Carter