New Year’s Weight Loss Tips
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JACKSON, Tenn.- Year after year, one of the most popular New Year’s Resolutions is losing weight. This year, local exercise specialists are offering up their best tips and tricks of the trade to losing weight and getting healthy safely. Exercise Specialist Elijah Taylor with Jackson’s Lift Center believes weight loss first begins with making a realistic goal for yourself. He said it is also important to know yourself and your limits. “Know yourself, if you haven’t worked out in years, you want to take your time, take small steps,” Taylor said. “If you watch a little baby, they don’t jump out running, they take small steps.” Experts say the first baby step is eating right, maintaining proper nutrition. Some safe ways to lower your calorie intake include a diet with no sweets, less sugar, more fruits and vegetables and whole grain products. Taylor said he would also suggest low-fat dairy products and at least 8 cups of water a day. Some trainers also encourage a healthier breakfast and several smaller portioned meals throughout the day. “Eat more fruit, more vegetables and stay away from fast food and all of the sweets. Eating fruit gives you more fiber and energy and it will lasts longer in your system,” Taylor said. In the gym, Taylor said you should know the equipment you are using before using it. You should first stretch then gradually increase your heart rate by walking or running for 8-10 minutes. “You don’t wanna try and get out and run a mile if you haven’t ran a mile in years. You want to walk some and then jog some,” Taylor said. For strength training, experts suggest beginners to start off with what is comfortable. At first, some trainers recommend their clients to do two sets of 10 on light to medium sized machine weights. “You don’t want pain; pain is always a no-no. If you’re having pain, you need to stop,” said Taylor. Most importantly trainers said you must stay active. Weight-loss and strength training may start in the gym but it does not end there. “Instead of walking down to the mailbox, walk down to the mailbox twice,” said Taylor. “Instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs, stay active.” Another big tip to help you stick to the plan is accountability. Experts said you should try and focus on one or two areas and then team up with a weight-loss companion. This new year, the Lift Center in Jackson is offering a fresh start to members and non-members alike. New Year’s Day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.everyone can work out for free with a $5 donation or three canned goods to benefit RIFA.
