Lose weight without going to the gym

You know you need to slim down, but for one reason or another you´d rather not spend a lot of hours at the gym. Maybe you find it difficult to carve out time to drive there or there´s usually a long line for your favourite machines. Maybe you feel self-conscious because you think your stomach is too big or your muscles are too small.

Well, I´ve got news for you. You can drop pounds without having to buy a gym membership. Try these strategies for lifestyle changes you can make on your own to reach your weight loss goals.

Exercising outside of the gym

There are many places to work out besides the gym. Just look around your home or neighbourhood for inviting spots:

1) Walk anywhere: Walking is an effective and free form of exercise almost anyone can do. Plan your route around local shopping malls or waterfront promenades.

2) Stay home: Exercise in the convenience of your home. Designing a home gym can be as simple as setting aside a corner for your floor mat and a few props.

3) Go to the park: Check out what your local park has to offer. In addition to a jogging trail, you may find exercise circuits, a pool, and basketball courts.

Consuming fewer calories

Many studies confirm that changing your diet may be even more important than exercise when it comes to losing weight. While you need daily activities to stay healthy, you can shrink your waistline by consuming fewer calories. Develop these habits to reduce your calories:

1) Eat more vegetables and fruit: Aim for at least 7 servings a day of fresh or frozen vegetables and fruits. Eating a variety of colours will help you to consume a wide range of necessary nutrients.

2) Measure your portions: Most adults can eat just about anything in moderation. Plus, a sprinkling of M&Ms in your plain organic yoghurt may banish cravings that could make you eat a whole bag.

3) Focus on whole foods: Make natural foods the mainstay of your diet. Replacing processed foods will eliminate most sources of sugar, salt, empty calories and unhealthy fats.

Other lifestyle changes for losing weight

Many simple and easy weight loss habits often get overlooked. Maximise the results of your exercise and diet by adding a few of these practises to your regular routine: 

1) Weigh in: Studies show that adults who weigh themselves daily are significantly more successful at losing weight and keeping it off. Knowing you´ll have to face the scale tends to make you more conscious of your choices throughout the day. Keep in mind that daily fluctuations are natural and usually related to water weight.

2) Drink coffee or tea: Unless you´re sensitive to caffeine, you can probably safely consume up to 4 cups of coffee/tea a day, according to most experts. While the effects are modest, caffeine can increase your metabolism and decrease your hunger.

3) Manage stress: Chronic tension can cause overeating, inflammation, and other issues. Learn relaxation practises that work for you. You may enjoy listening to soft instrumental music or getting a weekly massage.

4) Sleep well: Sleep deprivation triggers weight gain by slowing down your metabolism and interfering with the hormones that regulate hunger. Try to go to bed and rise on a consistent schedule, even on weekends and holidays.

5) Drink responsibly: Many adults underestimate the number of liquid calories they consume. If possible, avoid soda and choose your cocktails wisely. For example, a Bloody Mary has 120 calories while a Margarita has 740.

There you have it. You can shed extra pounds and stay healthy without setting foot inside a gym. Exercise regularly, eat less, and make other positive changes that will keep your body lean and strong.

Resources

Here are some resources that might be useful in your quest to losing weight without going to the gym:

Lucy Wyndham-Read: She's a qualified online trainer and she's my favourite, and the best part is that all her home workouts are free.  

Personalized Fitness Planner: A chic and modern fitness planner to plan and track your fitness journey and success (affiliate link)

Water Bottle to keep you hydrated (affiliate link):

Funny Coffee Mug (affiliate link):