How to Kickoff a Seriously Successful Weight

At the beginning of each year, many overweight people look down, can't see their feet, and for the thousandth time that week, wonder how to lose the extra weight and re-gain their health.

It seems rather daunting, but it can be done. After all, participants manage to drop weight on the TV program "The Biggest Loser". They have personal trainers, gym equipment, and weeks dedicated to one sole purpose - losing weight.

On the other hand, YOU are faced with real life. There are too many temptations. The health club is too expensive. Watching TV is much more comforting, especially if you are snacking on ice cream, cookies, or a big pizza.

One Small Step at a Time

What if you don't try to lose 50 pounds in one week or one month. Instead, set up a reasonable goal - maybe a pound a week. That means you could lose that 50 pounds in a year.

And how do you accomplish losing a pound a week? Start small with one very simple activity - walking. There is no excuse for not walking, although I'm sure a few people could make up one. In fact, here's the best excuse I've heard - "I can't walk today - it's too cold outside."

There Are No Excuses for Not Walking

If you can't see your feet, chances are you are not the healthiest individual. Who's going to take care of you when you're so big that you can't get up from the chair you're sitting in? When your blood pressure is so high you get dizzy trying to stand up? When your pre-diabetes turns into full-blown diabetes and you have to use medication to stay alive?

What's your excuse for not walking? The answer to it's too cold outside sounds like this - get a DVD that allows you to walk inside. You might actually enjoy the activity. You'll have built-in company, music, and warmth.

Believe it or not, people who start walking, inside or outside, actually find it a pleasant experience. You don't have to be social outdoors, but you can find a pleasurable walk somewhere near your home.

It's Boring

"It's boring" is another common excuse. After a few weeks, walking may actually become boring. I can see how that might happen. Think about changing the routine by doing one or more of the following:

• Find a partner to walk with.
• Changing the route or room or DVD.
• Walking with weights to challenge yourself.

Start with a Simple Activity

Walk every day. Then walk every day with weights. Within a few short weeks, you will have lost a few pounds. Encouraged, you could add another activity or perhaps food restriction (a little less food on the plate) to your plan. And this is how the journey to serious weight loss begins.