So many articles and programs are written around the goal of reducing 5 pounds of fat. For some people, this is all the fat they need to lose to meet their goal. For others, it is just the start of a long process especially if you have 30 or 40 pounds (or more) of fat to lose. Regardless of your specific goals, it is important to understand what a difference a loss of fat can actually mean for your body.
Take a look at the picture on the right. This is a replica of 5 pounds of fat on your body. It’s disgusting, right? Notice the texture and the volume. Now, think about how different you might look if that was removed from your stomach, your thighs or even your butt. Would you look or feel any different?
5 pounds can make a huge difference in your appearance and in your energy levels!
Here’s my top 3 ways to lead a massive meltdown on fat.
1. Approach every exercise session with intent, purpose and a stated level of intensity. Make sure you have a specific goal for that session and for every session that follows. For example, I will be doing a circuit style strength training session that will last 30 minutes and I will make sure and exert a level of intensity between 7 and 8.
2. Make a decision and a commitment on your intended eating plan. Which plan you choose matters less than your commitment to a precise plan and adhering to it completely. There are so many eating plans to choose from. I could make a list of 50 or so without even thinking…Jenny Craig, NutriSystems, Cookie Diet, Body for Life, The Zone, etc. Some are healthier than others and some are probably more effective than others. However, it has been proven time and time again that a person committed to a less than perfect plan is far more productive than a person with no plan whatsoever. By the way, ‘I’m going to eat less’ is not a plan.
3. Assign some level of accountability to yourself or someone else on your behalf. There are different forms of accountability that work for different people. Some dieters like to tell a friend or family members for support. Others like to use a journal to record their exercise and eating behaviors. Some dieters use a trainer to meet each week. Again, the actual type of accountability is less important than the fat that you are holding yourself to your commitment.
Isn’t it time you got started on those 5 pounds?