The Secret to Reaching Your Weight-Loss Goals

JANUARY 15, 2015

"Start with small steps. If you rarely eat at home, start with one or two meals a week and gradually add more. Over time, you'll notice that you'll be eating mindfully, which leads to healthier choices." — Kristine Schmitz, R.D.

Weight Loss The secret to success: Set realistic goals Do you find that you're losing steam with your 2015 resolutions? Maybe you just need to refresh your approach. Goal setting is important because it keeps you motivated and helps you stick with your program — whether you're trying to eat healthy, get more exercise or lose weight. One important way to help ensure that you'll reach your goals is to make them realistic and suitable to your lifestyle. Read on to learn how to be more proactive with your goals, and start by asking yourself what you can do to make your healthy-living plan work for you! Try these 4 effective goal-setting tips »

Stay Motivated Enlist your support team To reach long-term weight-loss success, having people you care about cheering you on is just as important as healthy eating and physical activity are. Someone to watch the kids while you exercise, a shoulder to lean on when you feel discouraged or a friend who inspires you to keep going — they all count. Start enlisting people for your support team now! Get the social support you need » Today's Fitness Tip Fuel your workouts the right way When you work out after a big meal, you may feel sluggish, get cramps or have an upset stomach. That's because your muscles and digestive system are competing with each other for energy. On the flip side, not eating before you exercise may leave you feeling weak. Strike the right balance by eating a light snack before exercising, and waiting a few hours after a meal.