5 Easy Ways to Lose Weight

It can be frustrating when you first start a new routine. Heck, it can be difficult to even begin. I know the struggle, but these tips will help you get motivated. Here are five easy ways to lose the pounds and kick-start your journey.

Drink More Water

When you drink water you will feel full longer. So, guzzle that magical liquid. Try drinking a whole glass before you eat and first thing when you wake up. It will be harder to overeat with a full belly of water. To keep yourself from getting bored, try infusing water with fruits and herbs. Mint, watermelon and cucumber can be especially delicious when combined in a drink. Lemon is a nice addition, too. A nice bonus to this tip, your skin will start to look better.

Go Vegan or Vegetarian

Go vegan or vegetarian. This switch can help you lose weight almost effortlessly. If you decide to go vegan, you eliminate many temptations. Ice cream is my downfall, haha. There are so many amazing recipes that completely satisfy. Try a vegan pizza or lasagna.

A word of caution, try not to get too caught up in all of the processed meat substitutes. Instead, focus on increasing your vegetable and fruit intake. Raw fruits and veggies have high water content and can help you feel full. Cooked vegetables are great as well, but they lose water in the cooking process.

Share On Social Media

Hold yourself accountable by using social media. Announce your weight loss goals to your friends. Make posts on social media or even start a YouTube channel. Everyone loves a success story, right? By making your goals public, your friends and family can help keep you motivated. More than likely you will have people wanting to join you.

When you are working with other people it is harder to quit since you don't want to let each other down. Social sites, like Dietbet, give you a chance to win money for the pounds you lose. There are also sites, like Pinterest, that have a plethora of weight loss tips.

Sign Up For an Event

Signing up for an event can be intimidating, I know firsthand. I used this tip a few years ago when I signed up for my first Spartan Race. These days there are all different kinds of fun runs and obstacle races. There are runs with zombies and others where people throw paint at you. The Spartan Race is an obstacle course mixed with a distance run. It feels like hell, but you will never be more proud of yourself. If you haven't run before, give yourself a few months to train. Knowing that you have something to look forward can be all the motivation you need.

A program like Couch to 5k can really get you in shape quickly. All you need to be able to do is walk to start.

Walk or Ride Everywhere

Walk or ride your bike everywhere. This lifestyle change can make a huge difference. I know that riding your bike to work isn't reasonable for everyone, but there are other small switches you can make. Park further away when you go to the grocery store. A bonus, there are always empty spots further away. No more trolling the lot looking for a spot up front. Instead of the elevator, opt for the stairs. If you work at a desk, make sure you get up and walk around at least once an hour. If you can't walk around, do some squats at your desk. Small changes add up and before you know it you could add an extra 30 minutes or more of exercise.

Following these tips will help you get started on your healthy lifestyle. As with any exercise or diet change, talk with you doctor if you have concerns. Good luck and stay motivated!