Need to lose weight? Here’s how to make working out fun

Written by Jamie, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Losing weight may seem like hiking up a mudslide, but it’s possible, and there are some ways to make the process fun. Before we get to the exciting stuff, here are a couple of reminders:

Couple exercise with a healthy diet to shed those pounds early and consistently—no more yo-yo effect.
Stay the course; that’s the key to any lifestyle change and optimal results.
Maintain a positive attitude throughout, compliment yourself when you reach milestones, and refrain from negative self-talk.
Make an Almased shake one of your three meals a day for stable weight loss and muscle retention.

Take your workout outside

When most people think about working out, the gym is what crosses their minds. For some of us, bright lights and mirrored walls aren’t ideal, so get creative. Instead of purchasing a membership you may never use, make use of what already exists: the outdoors.

According to experts, a 30-minute daily walk is quite beneficial, especially for those who require a low-impact workout or desire to lose weight, and it’s a great way to boost your mood while reducing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart disease risk. Each minute spent outside on a brisk walk takes you a step closer to a healthier life.

If you live in a place with a cold, snowy, or rainy season, take your walk to an indoor mall or other large space.

Treat yourself to new workout clothes

Whether you plan to use them in a yoga class, at Zumba, or on a moderate hike, take yourself shopping for workout clothes. Look for a pair of sneakers or tights that make you feel comfortable and unconquerable! Create an affirmation for your new workout clothes and say it each time you put them on. Here are a couple of examples:

I lead a healthy life.
I am proud of you.
When I put on these workout clothes, I am a warrior who fights for her health.
The steps I take are purposed.
Wow! I look good!

Fear you’ll never use the workout clothes and sneakers? At night, set them near your bedroom or front door alongside a water bottle (and anything else you may need), and gently remind yourself that as soon as you wake up in the morning, you will get dressed and work out.

Dance like nobody’s watching!

We don’t have to tell you how much fun dancing is—you know. Pump up the tunes on your home stereo system or in your headphones and dance like nobody’s watching! Pick songs that require a lot of arm movements, body shakes, and leg movements. The faster you can jam to the beat, the better; get that heart rate up.

If a 5-minute daily dance routine in front of the mirror doesn’t feel like enough, take an hour-long dance class. There are plenty of opportunities to join online communities at the moment. But if you can’t find a group you like, get some friends together and have a virtual dance party.

Find a workout buddy

Have you ever noticed that you are more likely to push yourself further when you work out with another person? Something about sharing a goal with others motivates us. Perhaps it’s our competitive nature, the accountability involved, or the need to belong. No matter the reason, sharing a workout with others brings an added level of joy to weight loss.

Choose someone who encourages, motivates, and holds you accountable; ask them if they’d like to be your workout buddy. If you happen to live nearby, try going on a weekly walk together or inviting them along to a (virtual) dance class. But no matter where your workout buddy lives, plan to check in with them daily or weekly.

Here are some things you may discuss:

Your weight loss goal.
What positive habitual changes you’re noticing.
How you nourish your body after a workout: any fun Almased recipes!
Encouraging social media accounts that help motivate you when your buddy isn’t around.

Use the Almased Support Group

Almased is a weight loss community, and we’re active online and on social media. Join the Facebook support group to share your weight loss journey questions and workout inquiries with friends who are all using Almased or have found great success with the Figure Plan.