Posted - November 10, 2011

Setting Compelling Weight Loss Goals

If you want to lose weight in Dallas and keep the weight off for good, then you have to set compelling weight loss goals. These goals will need to be both specific and attainable, otherwise you will be more likely to get discouraged and not reach your goal weight.

The first thing you need to do is determine what a reasonable goal weight is for you. Unless your BMI is over 25, you are not actually overweight and probably don’t need to lose weight. A good goal to start with is to lose 10 percent of your body weight at a rate of 1 or 2 pounds each week.

To make your weight loss goals more achievable, they need to include the specific actions you are going to take to reach your goal. Examples include 30 minutes per day of aerobic exercise, strength training twice a week, replacing soft drinks with water or diet soda, and eating a healthy meal at home instead of going out for fast food.

Many people find that they are not losing as much weight as they wanted even when following the steps mentioned in their goals. In this case, you may need to change your goals to allow for your weight loss to take a longer period of time, or increase the lifestyle changes you are making to help you lose weight. However, don’t make your decrease in calories too extreme, as this can backfire. Aim to consume 500 calories less than you did previously to lose about one pound per week.