5. FIND AN ACTIVE HOBBY AND REALLY MAKE TIME FOR IT.
Courtesy Nikki Gibson
“After moving from Florida to St. George, Utah, I’m really spoiled with all the hiking trails around me, especially in Zion National Park. I also brought my English Springer Spaniel, Tripp, with me and he truly saved my life. He is so full of energy and is the best hiking buddy a gal could want.
He became my amazing workout partner. I lost about 50 pounds just by eating healthier and working out by hiking and running with my dog. This is the healthiest I have been in years and I can’t wait to see what 2017 has in store for me.”
—Nikki Gibson, 34 (lost 49 pounds over 10 months)
6. LEARN A BIT ABOUT MACRONUTRIENTS AND HOW YOU CAN USE THEM TO CREATE MORE BALANCED MEALS.
Courtesy Greg Hirtzel
“I quickly realized that when I ate well and drank a lot of water, I didn’t feel all that hungry, even though I was eating much less than I used to. Following my macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbs) actually allowed for some pretty delicious meals, so I was happy with what I was eating. I learned to make a hundred different recipes with chicken, turkey, or fish. It’s amazing how versatile those meats are, so I was rarely bored. Luckily, I have always loved to cook and make great meals, and eating healthier was a great challenge to expand my repertoire of recipes.”
—Greg Hirtzel, 30 (lost 50 pounds over six months)
7. WRITE OUT ALL THE HEALTHY THINGS YOU LOVE EATING, AND THEN PLAN MEALS AROUND THAT.
Courtesy Caira Martinez
“I made a list of the things I like to eat, what vegetables I like and so on, and looked up recipes that included them. Now, every Saturday/Sunday, depending on when I have time, I sit and plan all my meals for the upcoming week.
I prep, cook, and pack my meals the night before (usually after dinner). Is it hard? Yes! It requires me to make an extra effort and work for it and the results are worth it!”
—Caira Martinez, 35 (lost 66 pounds over five months)