Once you reach age 40 and over it is harder to lose weight. That is why we must set realistic goals. You can’t expect a miracle after a month or so. It will take time, but you can accomplish your goals. You must remember you have quite a few things going against you once you reach 40. Metabolism is the main enemy because it slows down as you get older, so you must finds ways to boost it up. A slow metabolism means slow weight loss, and your hormones are probably out of control as well. The bottom line is you are going to have to put in hard work to lose weight.
I could lose weight in my thirties with just 3 days of exercise at 30 minutes. Not the case now, you need a minimum of 45 to 60 minutes 3 days a week. It sounds like a lot but it is not, your routine could include walking three days and two additional days of strength training. The strength training could be 20 to 30 minutes twice a week this builds lean muscle and helps you burn more calories when you do your cardio routines. But you must be consistent even if you have reached your ideal weight. Losing weight requires maintenance, meaning keeping it off. Your exercise routines also need to change a least every 90 days so you do not reach plateau. This means instead of walking for 60 minutes, add a jog for at least 10 of the minutes. I like to walk a mile then jog a mile to mix up my routine. Other examples include exercising for longer periods, or changing your routine all together, but you must mix it up. If you keep this up for at least six months, you will see a significant change in your body and you will be shocked at your stamina.
Over 40 is not the end of world as far as weight loss and staying healthy. You just have to work a littler harder and the more you do the more comfortable you will be keeping up with a routine and enjoy the great changes you are making for a healthy lifestyle after 40. Now we know that exercising is just part of the program to get you fit, eating habits also play a major role more so than the physical aspect. Large meals once or twice a day is not the answer you need small meals several times a day. A piece of fruit and a dry piece of toast is an example of one meal. Eat plenty of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean cuts of meat. If you have been reading my material, I really don’t believe in diets, I believe in lifestyle changes which include smarter choices. I know some people need diets, if this is you I would start one and learn how to eat healthier and then incorporate this into you choices, so you don’t need to diet.
Setting realistic goals means you know the weight will not disappear over night as it did not appear that way. It doesn’t mean it can be done. I would start out with setting a goal of weight loss in 5 pound increments. Get started and keep in mind at all times that it is not a quick fix, but you can do it.
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