I am a 25 year old male, I am trying to lose 18 pounds. Its 3.18.08 and my weight is 188. I want to be 170 by June of 08. I try to eat right but its hard. I go on the elliptical 4-5 days a week, my weight has gone down to 183 but then its back up. Its been a dream of mine to be in shape I just need some guidance. I real hope you can help. Thanks so much. Jason. [via Ask Questions]
The good news Let’s see if your goal of losing 18 pounds in 3 months is actually achievable. 18 pounds divided by 3 months equals 6 pounds, which means that you need to lose 6 pounds a month to reach your goal. Let’s break this down a bit further. 6 pounds divided by 4 weeks equals 1.5 pounds.
In other words, to lose 18 pounds in 3 months, you need to lose 1.5 pounds a week. This is great news because we know that losing 2 pounds a week is considered safe and effective way to lose weight, which means that you can have a reasonable expectation to achieve your weight-loss goal. Even if you need to lose 20 pounds in 3 months, you are still below 2 pounds a week.
The not so good news You said that you try to eat right but it is a challenge for you. I do not like eating right anymore than any other guy who knows how good French fries and a double cheeseburger can be, but the reality is that you need to change your eating habits if you want to lose weight. What does it mean exactly? Continue reading, it is not what you think.
How to lose 20 pounds in 3 months Usually, I would tell you to follow a healthy diet and exercise, but you already know that. Let’s try something different. What I am about to say will probably raise some eyebrows and may generate a number of “How could you?” emails. I know that. I also know that it works for some people, so I am not going to pretend that it is not a viable solution in some cases.
Are you ready? Here it comes. Do not change your eating habits, but eat less of what you already eat. Why would it work? Because if you eat less, your daily calorie intake will be reduced, add exercise to the mix and you have created a calorie deficit which is necessary to lose weight.
The bottom line Keep reminding yourself that your weight-loss goal is very reasonable and you have a very good chance of actually achieving it. Eat less of whatever it is you eat daily. Exercise. Walk for 30-45 minutes every day.