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Whatever the reason…you’ve arrived at the decision to start a weight loss program.

I am sure you have some reservations about losing weight—or sticking with a program.

And this is fine. Everyone comes into a weight loss program with certain expectations they want to achieve.

But it’s important to know that you’re going to have to work harder on your weight loss than anything else you’ve probably had to deal with in the past.

Again, that’s ok. But it’s important that you understand these 7 things before getting started:

1. Nothing Will Happen Overnight

All the weight loss ads you’ve seen telling you losing weight is easy—and can be FAST. But the truth is:

It’s not going to happen overnight. Yes, you may see some changes in the first few weeks, but losing weight is a long process.

Don’t look for quick fixes that promise weight loss overnight. Instead, stick with the tried-and-true methods for losing weight.

Not only will you have more long-term success, you will feel better about yourself after accomplishing your goals.

2. The Scale May Not Move

There’s a good chance that the scale will not move when you’re on a weight loss program. But it doesn’t mean you’re not making changes in your body.

You may be losing inches—which is a good sign you’re losing body fat. It’s important to remember this, as stagnant weight loss often leads to frustration and eventual failure on the program.

Do yourself a favor—throw out the scale, and rely instead on how your clothes fit.

3. Superfoods Are Important—But Won’t Magically Erase Fat

There are plenty of ads on TV touting superfoods as a way to blast away years of belly fat. But it’s important to note:

Superfoods are only one piece in the weight loss puzzle. A well-balanced diet is going to lead to better, more consistent weight loss—instead of eating one lonely superfood.

4. You Will Have To Cut Calories

If you want to lose weight, you do need to cut calories. But you do need to be careful. Cutting too many calories from your diet may be counteractive to your weight loss program.

Finding out the right calorie amount for you, and bringing your current level down to meet that goal slowly, is going to be better received by your body.

5. You Do Need To Exercise

It’s true that diet plays a very large role in losing weight. But so does exercise. The right exercise program—one that focuses on strength training and cardiovascular work—is going to help you achieve your goal faster.

Adding more lean muscle mass with strength training should increase your metabolism, therefore helping you burn extra calories. Cardio also helps burn excess calories, plus improves other things like blood pressure and cholesterol.

6. You’re Going To Feel Better—But Starting Will Be Worse

Although losing weight will eventually make you feel better and boost your energy, it’s important to note that you may feel worse in the beginning.

Changing your diet, and eliminating unhealthy habits will be hard at first, and you may lack the motivation to keep going. But the longer you can stick with it, the better you’re going to feel.

7. It Will Be The Best Decision Of Your Life

When it’s all said and done, and you decide to start your weight loss journey, it will be the best decision of your life.

Not only are you going to be able to change your body, you’re going to see changes in your energy, your motivation, and your mood.

And the harder you work, the better your results will be. You will be taking back your health—which is the best reason why you should start.

Starting a weight loss program will be the best decision of your life. But it’s important to know there will be stumbling blocks, and obstacles along the way, that may try to deter you from your ultimate goal. The 7 things on this list should help you know what to expect, and help you navigate through your program.

Your friend and trainer,

Paul F. Sweatt CPT

Train Smart. Train Hard. Train Safe. Train to Sweatt.