How to Learn a Weight Loss Program

More Americans are overweight today than ever before. In 1996, no state had an obesity rate exceeding 25 percent, but 33 states did by 2009. Clearly, an epidemic is occurring. Most people who are overweight acknowledge that they would prefer to shed the extra pounds, but following a weight-loss routine can be difficult and discouraging. Fortunately, there are ways to learn and maintain a routine without burning out before achieving your goals.

Instructions

• 1

  Work with a personal trainer. Personal trainers are well-versed in weight loss, helping countless individuals achieve their goals each year. Because a proper weight-loss routine involves both diet and exercise, it is important to work with someone who fully understands both of these elements. Many people also opt to work with a nutrition specialist, because good nutrition is one of the fundamentals of weight loss and a healthy lifestyle.

• 2

  Join a weight-loss support group. A support group made up of like-minded individuals can provide the encouragement you need to carry out your program. Weight-loss support groups can help you to set goals and stick with your routine. These groups are offered through a variety of institutions, such as churches, schools and community centers.

• 3

  Read books devoted to weight loss and healthy lifestyle. Reading allows you to learn and internalize the many concepts of weight loss at your own pace, then review the material as needed. The amount of literature devoted to this topic is astounding; choose a book that is geared toward beginners, because trying to absorb too many details at first can be overwhelming.