How to Create Your Own Weight Loss Program

Want to lose weight and get your diet on track, but don’t have the budget to pay for a professional dietician or trainer? Don’t fret. Just head to do-it-yourself route. There are plenty of resources out there that can help you craft the weight loss program that’s right for you. All you need is a little patience, attention to detail, and good research skills.

Research: Use Books, Magazine, Doctors, and the World Wide Web

So what types of information do you need for a weight loss program? Two things: information about the right foods and information about the right types of exercise. Go to your local library and do research on the right types of food for your body. Get yourself some fitness magazines and see if you can pick up any good workouts for your lifestyle.

You could even consider paying your doctor a visit. Ask about the type of body that you have and what types of food should you eat more of (and what to stay away from).

If you don’t have time to head to the doctor or to shop around for magazines and health books, then simply go online and search for meal plans. The web is an extremely convenient source of information, and you’ll definitely find a wealth of info online.

Do this with caution though, and always be skeptical at first. There’s plenty of misleading information out there when it comes weight lossâ€"a lot of companies are producing content to forward their own agendas, and most of them may suggest things that will get you to spend money, but see little to no results. Or worse, you might end up doing something that isn’t good for your body in the first place.

When researching for weight loss materials online, it’s best to move with some skepticism. Realize that there are so-called resources out there that don’t have your best interest at heart. To be safe, always make sure that you’re getting info from credible sources. Search for articles from reputable companies and publications. Nonprofit organizations, educational websites, and government resources are also good bets when it comes to getting the right information (websites ending in .edu and .gov work best.)

Ask a Friend to Be Your Mentor or Workout Buddy

Need help crafting your weight loss program? Then try asking a friend that’s knowledgeable about weight loss and diets. Ask them to come with you while you shop for ingredients or cook your food, and pick their brain about the dos and don’ts of weight loss.

Choose someone with a similar body type and ask them for recommendations on food, diet, and exercise. If you can, see if it’s possible to get in on their existing weight loss plan. Ask if you can be work out buddies. If they say yes, then things could be easier for the both of you. Not only will you have great company while working out, but both of you can motivate each other to do well.

Image credit: chickadeeacres on Flickr