Before you set aside a small chunk of your wallet, think of lifestyle changes that you can make to lose weight, and save money. Alot of people are striving for this, this year. Aside from the health benefits, and self esteem being fit brings, you also want an affordable plan. Winning! The easiest and most affordable plans target lifestyle changes, nutrition, and of course motivation. You also need to get motivated to get MOVING! So before you buy that expensive 3-equipment equivalent tread climber or an expensive weight loss plan here’s 7 lifestyle changes

1. Seek POSITIVE Support

Recruit some pals to be your workout buddy and hit the track, gym, or local Zumba class. Make yourself accountable and tweet it, post it, and take pictures of your before while getting ready to show off your AFTER. Instead of a professional trainer, or coach get you man or woman, BFF,  and find some interesting activities. Go for a hike, kayak, (yep even in L.A.) bowling, walking, sight seeing, boxing.

2. Get Moving

Make sure you get seven to eight hours of quality sleep, instead of spending time on expensive stress-management strategies, like my favorite shopping.   Walk your dog, run outside, or dance to your favorite music at least 20-30 minutes on most days of the week, and do strength training or use your body weight for an resistance workout two to three times.

3. Cook! Limit Take Out & Fast Food

Prepare and cook your own healthy meals, instead of paying for a food. Check out some awesome blogs, and find new recipes, spices, and fix up healthy, wallet friendly meals. If you can afford it however, there are alot of healthy meal delivery services available. Fresh meals to you door! Can’t get any easier, right? Now don’t cheat too much, adding in your own menu items.

4. Recruit some help

If you find you need some extra help, find a health coach at Herbalife who can tell you what worked for them & what you can do, give you all the information on the products that are made for optimal nutrition. Interested in some of those exercise deals, try one or two sessions before you go all in and purchase a bulk package. Find someone you are comfortable with and who is interested in your overall well being.

5. Stay away from quick fixes

Get the best value for money by choosing safe and effective programs that can work best for you. Don’t opt for quick fixes or over-restrictive weight-loss programs which will negatively affect your health and your body image. Know your body, learn your body type, shape, which exercises and nutrition plan is right for you. Everyone doesn’t need a low-carb diet, or low fat, aim for a balanced diet. There are also alternatives like gluten-free, vegan diets, foods, which are becoming more readily available.

6. Positive Mindset

Think positive! Envision the body you want, how those curves with look. The dress or suit you will wear, buy it and hang it up. Set small goals, and reward yourself as you journey to your goal weight or size.  Remember that to be healthy and fit person is physically, mentally and emotionally stable-the balance is key to losing and maintaining a healthy weight. It isn’t easy but establishing healthy good habits will help you not only achieve your goals, but maintain them long term. Believe in yourself, and that you can do it! Read articles and join forums with people that have the same goals, and discuss ideas, recipes, goals.

7. Manage your stress

Don’t let losing weight stress you out! Have a positive outlook toward your weight-loss. Trying to workout, making changes in your routines, diet may become stressful in itself. Right? You may over-think about your weight, overexercise, and may have other health concerns like hypertension (high blood pressure), thyroid issues, or common PCOS. Do your homework, and do everything you can to stay active, and positive. Eat and lose weight in moderation to lose weight and avoid getting stressed out.

8. Make a plan

Make a plan and write it down. Planning will strengthen your willpower and motivation to exercise regularly. Try Penzu and journal your progress. WebMD also has a cool tool to help you determine your BMI, weight tracker and exercise calculator to tell you how many calories you have burned. There are also apps like Lose It! to help you understand nutritional facts, and help decide food choices.

What ideas or programs do you have to help you reach your weight loss goals?

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