1. Buy some scales.
If you have a lot of weight to lose, buy a set of scales. Some trainers advise you not to use scales, but if used properly they can be a valuable tool. They help give you a starting point and can keep you motivated. If you decide to use them, make sure you weigh yourself at the same time every day.
2. Start an exercise diary.
Plan your week, preferably one day off out of seven. The rest of the week you should alternate between cardio and weight bearing exercise.
3. Push ups rock.
In order to lose weight you need to build lean muscle, the more lean muscle the quicker your metabolism. Push ups are a great way to build strength and muscle. Do as many as you can, then mark down the number, that is your goal for the next day.
4. Move quicker.
By adding some speed session to your cardio you’ll burn more energy. This does not just mean running, if you walk add some hard walking to your nightly strolls. See our interval training program here
5. Find something you love. Go back to a childhood sport you enjoyed, join a basketball, or netball team. Then at least one night a week your exercise is taken care of, and it’s fun.
6. Buy a pedometer.
It's a great way to motivate yourself to walk more. You'll find yourself keeping an eye on how many steps you have taken that day. If you give yourself a target, such as 10,000, you'll find yourself trying to find ways to reach that number. Parking at a train station farther down the line and walking to your stop is a good way to get in a few extra steps.
7. Join an exercise group.
Exercising in a group has several benefits. You surround yourself with like-minded people and the topic of conversation will revolve around weight loss and exercise. Being in a group trying to lose weight motivates you. It's easy to give up an exercise program if you're doing it on your own - in a group you're letting others down, not only yourself.
8. Stay motivated.
Picking the right form of exercise and starting slowly is the way to keep your motivation high. Setting goals and writing them down will help keep you on the straight and narrow. You are more likely to be successful if you have something to aim for.
9. Get the family involved.
Working out as a family unit makes it fun, and helps you stay motivated. Remember running around with the kids after work counts, it’s all burning energy.
10. Take the stairs.
Take the stairs when you would normally use the lift. It all adds up.
11. Start a walking group.
In your lunch hour at work catch up with a few workmates and head out for a walk, maybe even try a walking meeting instead of sitting around in the office for half an hour.
12. Pick an event.
It’s easier to motivate yourself to train if you set a goal. Choose a fun run, swim or bike ride and start training.
13. Plan an active holiday.
Head to the snow with the kids, or enjoy a weekend hiking, or hire some bikes and go for a bike ride. Making exercise fun and part of your everyday life means it seems like less of a chore.
14. Walk more.
On any drive less than ten minutes, if practical, walk or ride your bike. You’ll save on petrol and get some exercise.
15. Take up swimming.
Once a week head to your local pool and swim a few laps. It’s low impact on your body so it’s unlikely you’ll get injured, and it’s a great way to tone your upper body.
For more great tips on losing weight, eating well and getting fit visit FitYou.
Do you have any exercise tips to share?
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