You’ve probably heard of the 80/20 Rule. It’s a guideline that in essence states that you should focus on achieving 80% of your goals in the first 20% of the time and then you can focus on the next 20% of the time to achieve the other goals.
Well, a similar principle can be applied to your weight loss efforts. Specifically, you can use the first 20% of your day to achieve 80% of the results you want from your weight loss program. The next 20% of your day can then be devoted to the rest. So, if you want to lose weight, you should set some step counting goals for yourself. These goals should represent how many steps you plan to take each day. Then, you can track your progress and see how far you’ve come. Moreover, you should be mindful of how you spend your time during your daily 20%, as this is when you’re most likely to lose weight. So, here are some suggestions for what you should include in your day:
Walking
Walking is one of the simplest ways to lose weight. Not only does it help you burn calories, but it also gets your heart rate up and puts some life in those flat feet of yours. So, if you want to shed some pounds, take the bus or walk to work. Or, even better, get a dog. A study from the University of Minnesota found that having a dog reduced your waistline by an average of 5.5 inches. For those of you who love to walk but dread the thought of exercise, the ideal solution is the treadmill. Treadmills and their various counterparts (such as the Exercycle and the Rowing Machine) were designed for just this purpose. They give you the benefits of exercise without having to leave the comfort of your home. In fact, many treadmills are electric, so even when you fall asleep on them, they’ll still be operating and counting your steps for you!
Fasting
If you’re really committed to shedding some pounds, you should try a fasting strategy. Specifically, you should avoid eating for a certain period of time before you take your morning stroll. During these hours, your body will be in a fasted state (meaning that it’s in a calorie-burning mode), so you’ll be able to shed some weight without risking health complications. The traditional fasting regimen in the form of a water fast can help you shed up to 10 pounds in just a week. If you’re really determined to lose weight, consider giving it a try. You can always add a few healthy snacks to your diet plan during the period when you’re not eating, so it’s not like you’re depriving yourself. Plus, you’ll learn a lot about your body and what it needs. Water fasting has even been recommended by the Mayo Clinic for those who want to lose weight after giving birth.
Swimming
Swimming is another low-impact sport that you can do to lose weight. And what’s better is that you can do it anywhere. Whether it’s in the tub or in the pool, getting wet and moving around is a great way to start your day. In fact, a study from the University of Minnesota found that those who participated in regular exercise were 20% less likely to be obese than those who did not exercise. So, if you’re looking to shed some weight, try swimming. In addition, many gyms have pools where you can work out alongside professional swimmers. It’s difficult to put into words the feeling you get when you’re swimming vigorously. The sense of accomplishment you experience as you push your body further than you ever have is incredibly satisfying. Of course, you don’t have to be a professional athlete to enjoy swimming. Kids can participate in swim lessons, and there are many opportunities for families to bond while having fun in the water. Keep in mind, though, that the water will always weigh you down. So, make sure that you’re wearing something that will keep you afloat or you could end up risking damage to your health. A cap, a life jacket, or a lifeguard’s whistle is just some of the stuff you might want to bring to the pool. You should also practice proper safety technique such as learning how to float and how to maneuver in the water. This will help ensure that your time in the pool is safe and efficient.
Jogging
If you’re looking for a low-impact yet high-intensity workout, try jogging. Similar to swimming, jogging is another great way to work out and lose weight. And while swimming works out your arms, jogging works out your legs, so it’s a good combination. If you’re looking to get a workout and clear your head, jogging is the perfect solution. What’s more is that you can do it almost anywhere. You don’t need a trail, road, or a paved pathway to get the benefits of a jog. Simply find a quiet area in the neighborhood or on a large piece of land and start jogging. The great thing about jogging is that it’s flexible enough to satisfy any fitness level. Beginners can take it easy while experienced runners can push themselves to the limit. Jogging is perfect for clearing your head and relaxing after a hard day at work. The mind and body heal while the feet work out. So, if you’re looking for a way to destress, unwind, and shed a few pounds, try jogging. Moreover, it’s commonly accepted that jogging clears your lungs of pollution, so if you’re fighting asthma or have other respiratory issues, it’s an excellent choice. In addition, what’s great about jogging is that it’s very customizable. You can make it a hard workout or make it a relaxing Sunday morning stroll. The choice is yours!
Riding Your Bike
If you’re looking for a way to get some fresh air and some exercise, consider biking. Similar to jogging, biking is another great way to work out and lose weight. Moreover, you’ll get the added benefit of moving some of that weight. Sitting down might be the worst thing you can do for your health. It even turns out that standing while working out is better than sitting. So, if you want to get healthier, move around while working out. This will help prevent obesity and increase your overall well-being. One of the best things about biking is that it’s a great way to bond with your family. You can take the bike out for a spin, and the scenery will pass by as you cycle together. Moreover, you won’t be competing for the attention of others. Instead, you’ll be working out while enjoying the company of those you care about.
Stargazing
With the right clothing and accessories, you can look like a total genius when observing the night’s sky. And what’s better is that you don’t need a telescope to do it. So, if you want to waste some quality time alone, consider spending it looking up at the stars. In the right location and at the right time, you can see a great deal. However, you might want to bring a blanket and some snacks to make the experience more comfortable. You can also use your cellphone’s telescope application to get an even better view. Stargazing might not be for everyone. But if you’re looking for a way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day routine, consider spending a few hours a night looking up at the stars.
Walking While Listening To Classical Music
A lot of people use headphones when they walk, but did you know that listening to classical music can actually improve your walking experience? Specifically, studies have shown that people who listen to classical music while they walk are able to walk farther and faster than those who don’t. So, if you want to maximize your workout and minimize the boredom factor, listen to some classical music. You can find a wide variety of classical music online, or you can buy a CD at a supermarket or music store. Most gyms have a CD player, so you can listen to your favorite author while working out. Classical music has also been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce stress. So, if you want to get a workout and improve your life, consider listening to some classical music. It might just be the key to your success.