Worse, according to Walking magazine, studies show that weight gained during the holidays tends to be permanent. Elaine Anderson, owner-operator of Tan and Tone Fitness Center of Lonoke, said that this does not have to be so. A little preparation can go a long way toward ensuring those excess pounds will be taken off, and kept off, she said. First, Anderson advises, do not set your goals too high. Set an attainable goal, one you can live with, don t try to lose 30 or 40 pounds in a month.
Nobody can do that and be healthy.
Also, by trying to do too much soon, or lose too much too fast, someone may only be setting themselves up for discouragement and eventually giving up, she said. Second, decide how to measure your progress. Contrary to popular wisdom, Anderson said she believes bathroom scales not only should not be the basis of a weight-loss plan, but might have no place at all. Lose inches instead of pounds. You will see changes in inches more readily than in weight, she explained.