Research has proven that you are more likely to succeed with your weight loss and fat loss goals if you have a weight loss buddy (social support or accountability partner). Who are your weight loss buddies? It helps to have more than one because life's events are unpredictable.
3 reasons why weight loss buddies help you succeed:
1. Accountability - A little healthy weight loss competition never hurts a cause. Don't forget, you must have significant fat loss for weight loss to be healthy and lasting. This requires you to lose weight the right way---no fad dieting or quick weight loss gimmicks.
Its important to keep in mind that you are trying to change your lifestyle to one of health and fitness. The weight loss is just one tool to help you get it done. You have to be committed for a lifetime---through the ups, downs, successes and failures.
2. Expectations - All other things being equal, people will generally live up or down to expectations. Just make sure your expectations are realistic or you will be set up to fail.
For instance, if you need to lose 100 pounds, how will you get that accomplished? Some things you may need to consider:
a. Have you really ever exercised for an extended period of time? If you have no experience to draw from, you will need to take baby steps, like starting with walking.
b. How long have you been inactive? If its been awhile since you exercised, you won't be able to do an intense circuit training workout right away.
c. How quickly do you want to lose 100 pounds? Although you may lose pounds quickly at the beginning of your exercise program (like 10 pounds the first week), it will be tougher to burn fat and lose weight in the weeks and months ahead. For example, losing 2 pounds and burning .5% body fat will be good progress during many weeks. So, it may take a year or longer to lose 100 pounds the right way.
d. You may have health problems that slow your progress. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, you will need your doctor's clearance before beginning an exercise program. You will have to start out slower than someone who is more healthy. The good news is that these two conditions can be reversed with exercise and healthy, managed nutrition.
3. Support - Its a long, never-ending road to burning fat, losing weight, changing your body and maintaining weight. Support from someone going through the same thing is very important.
Also, inform family members and friends early on what your body-changing intentions are....the more support, the better. On the opposite end, avoid people who will have a negative attitude about your weight loss intentions. There are many would-be haters out there to help you fail.
Here are some examples of good weight loss buddies:
1. Spouse
2. Friend
3. Personal trainer
4. Brother/Sister
5. Exercise group (bootcamps, group classes, neighborhood groups, running groups)
6. Teammate
7. Co-worker
8. Social website
Basically, your weight loss buddy could be anyone who knows what you are attempting to do and will encourage you along the way (even tough love if necessary). Weight loss buddies are great if they are serious about fitness and have made commitments similar to your own. You hold each other accountable.
Be sure and download your Free Bodyweight 500 Metabolic Fat Burner Workouts and start shaping your body faster! There are 3 levels: beginner, intermediate and advanced. Get a buddy to join you!
Mark Dilworth, BA, PES
