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This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

15 Walking Routines to Lose 30 Pounds in 90 Days

Here’s how to do it.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Walking is one of the most straightforward and effective methods of weight loss. “Research has shown that walking can improve weight management, lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality and relieve depression and anxiety,” says sports medicine physician Brett Bentley via the University of Alabama Medical Center. “Walking can even increase good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol.” Here are 15 walking routines to lose 30 pounds, get fit, and improve your health.


Wear the Right Clothes

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Wearing comfortable clothing will keep you focused on your workout rather than your outfit. “To help you stay comfortable and dry, choose fabrics that pull sweat away from your skin and dry quickly,” according to MedlinePlus. “Many quick-drying fabrics are synthetic and made of polyester or polypropylene. Look for terms like moisture-wicking, Dri-fit, Coolmax, or Supplex. Wool is also a good choice to keep you cool, dry, and naturally odor-free. Some workout clothing is made with special antimicrobial solutions to combat odor from sweat.”

Start Small

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If you barely work out, don’t start by attempting 10k steps a day. Make smaller, more realistic goals. As your strength and endurance builds, add more steps.

Listen To Music

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Music can make working out an absolute pleasure. “As our brain focuses on music, we may be less aware of fatigue and strain on our cardiovascular system and muscles during exercise. This may also explain why workouts seem to go by faster when we listen to music,” Dr. Paul Wright, senior vice president and system chair of the Neuroscience Institute, tells Nuvance Health.

Get Competitive

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Many apps offer group settings where you can compare your daily steps with friends, family, and coworkers. Make it fun by competing to see who can hit their steps the most in a week.

RELATED:Lose 30 Pounds in 60 Days with These 5 Simple Plyometric Moves

Try Interval Training

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Interval training can give your walks a little edge. “You can also alternate periods of brisk walking with leisurely walking,” say the experts at the Mayo Clinic. “This type of interval training has many benefits, such as improving cardiovascular fitness and burning more calories than regular walking. And interval training can be done in less time than regular walking.”

Drink Plenty of Water

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Walking is a more gentle exercise compared to say, HIIT, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to stay hydrated. Drink before, during (if necessary), and after your workout to perform at your best.

Step It Up

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Once you get into a groove, don’t be held back by the 10k a day rule. “It takes effort, but we can accumulate 15,000 steps a day by walking briskly for two hours at about a four-mile-per-hour pace,” Dr. William Tigbe, a physician and public health researcher at the University of Warwick, tells the New York Times. “This can be done in bits. Our metabolism is not well-suited to sitting down all the time.”

RELATED:15 Simple Exercises to Get You in Shape Over 50 in Just 4 Weeks

Eat a Healthy Diet

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You could walk for hours and essentially undermine all that process by eating high-calorie junk food. Stick to satiating whole foods that make you feel good and fuel your walks.

Social Walks

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Turning your walks into social time with friends and family is ideal. You get all the benefits of time spent with loved ones, while getting your steps in. By working out together, you can encourage and hold each other accountable.

Don’t Dawdle

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While the whole point of walking is a low-impact exercise that burns fat, try to stay at a brisk pace. “If you add 30 minutes of brisk walking to your daily routine, you could burn about 150 more calories a day,” Katherine Zeratsky, RD, LD, tells the Mayo Clinic. “Of course, the more you walk and the quicker your pace, the more calories you'll burn.”

Hit the Treadmill

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If the weather is bad or you just don’t live close to a nice/safe walking spot, hit the treadmill. You can adjust the incline to give your walks a boost, and don’t have to worry about getting rained on or having to share the road with cars. Keep your hands off the treadmill bars!

RELATED:I Lost 40 Pounds in 2 Months Without Going to the Gym, and This Is How

Hit the Trails

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If you’re lucky enough to live near nice hiking trails, go for it. Getting outside has so many benefits for our health. Spending time outdoors is good for both physical and mental wellbeing.

Walk At an Incline

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“The higher you set the incline, the more energy your body is forced to use to help activate your glutes, quadriceps, and calves, all of which have to put in overtime when the incline is increased,” certified personal trainer Chrys Crockett tells NBC News. “This increase of energy burns more calories and, depending on your weight and cardiovascular endurance, can also burn more fat.”

Rest When Needed

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Do not be a hero and keep pushing through injury or severe discomfort. Take a rest day a week to recuperate and allow yourself to hit the ground running (so to speak) when the week starts again. This allows you to maintain weight loss for longer.

Eat More Protein!

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Fuel your fat-burning and muscle growth with protein. “Your first meal of the day — hopefully for everyone that’s breakfast — should have at least 30 grams of protein. That’s really important, especially if you’re trying to maximize muscle growth,” Sarah Wardlaw, MS, L/ATC, CE, tells Mass General Brigham. “Then aim for another 30 grams with each meal. Add protein-rich snacks throughout the day, such as protein bars, homemade protein balls made from protein powder, cottage cheese, or meat sticks.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

More For You

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Isis Kellier is a diet and fitness influencer who regularly shares videos on her channel about how she lost weight fast and got into the best shape of her life. In one TikTok video she reveals how she dropped an average of 2.5 pounds a week by making a few simple changes to her diet and fitness routine. “How I lost 15 pounds in six weeks,” she starts the clip, going on to reveal her secrets. We also asked The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on her tactics.


1. Intermittent Fasting

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The first thing Isis did? Intermittent fasting, or “OMAD,” she reveals, which stands for “one meal a day. “The Lightly intermittent fasting app helps to keep everything on track,” she added. In another video she details what she eats in a day, starting at 2:00 pm with two glasses of green juice followed by a bowl of fruit. For her main meal of the day, “dinner,” she eats at 4:00 pm and enjoys spicy vodka pasta with a grilled chicken breast on top. At 5:30 pm she drinks two Premiere Protein shakes.

Related: 8 Things You Should Be Doing Now, According to Wellness Gurus

2. Expert Weighs in on OMAD

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“It sounds like she is only eating in a less than 4 hour window which is a very small eating window,” Collingwood notes. “I like that she has antioxidant rich green juice and fruit, but that is not really a ton of produce or fiber. When you eat most of your produce as juice, you are missing out on a lot of fiber which is really important for gut health and keeping the microbiome in check.” As for protein, she is likely meeting her requirements with the grilled chicken, “not sure size but let’s assume 4 oz = 28 grams of protein and two premier protein shakes at 30 grams each gives her another 60 grams to push her over 80 grams for the day,” she notes. “However, two highly processed protein shakes are not really providing the quality of food we like for overall good health. They do have a lot of vitamins and minerals added to them, which she needs because she is not eating very many calories or a variety of foods.” She is happy to see some carbs in the pasta, “but vodka sauce does not really provide much nutritional value,” she adds. “ Marinara would be much better with the antioxidants and nutrients in tomatoes.” Overall Collingwood is concerned about her low calorie intake. “Again, I don’t have exact portion sizes but I estimate this to be about 1000-1200 calories.”

Related: I'm a Bikini Fitness Competitor and Here's My #1 Rule for Weight Loss

3. 30-60 Minutes of Cardio Daily

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Next up? “30 to 60 minutes of cardio daily,” she reveals. In the other video she reveals that she does “fasted cardio” in the morning prior to her first meal.

4. Expert Weighs in On Her Workout

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According to Collingwood, 30 to 60 minutes of cardio “is great,” she says. However, “if she is doing this in the morning and not getting any calories until 2 PM (and that is very few with the green juice and fruit and no protein) she is leaving her body susceptible to poor recovery, injury risk, dehydration, and low energy,” she points out.

Related: I’m a Celebrity Trainer and This is the Only Smoothie I Can’t Live Without

5. Calorie Deficit

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Her final secret to losing 15 pounds in six weeks? Maintaining a “caloric deficit,” she says. The basic math of calories in vs calories out is caloric deficit which is necessary to lose weight, Collingwood agrees. “But you can create a caloric deficit in many other more healthy ways that include fueling the body in more regular intervals, feeding more nutritious foods, and having more balance.”

6. Bottom Line: Is a 15-Pound Weight Loss in 6 Weeks Realistic?

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Collingwood and most experts agree that a healthy weight loss rate is typically one to two pounds per week. “15 pounds in 6 weeks is a bit higher than that,” Collingwood points out. “It all depends on how much weight someone has to lose. If you have 100 pounds you lose, it will come off faster initially. If you only have 15 pounds to lose, the weight will come off more slowly.

In general, the faster it comes off, the more likely there is a higher proportion of muscle coming off vs a majority of fat tissue.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Intermittent fasting is a form of dieting that works for some people. Oftentimes if you are eating in a short window, you will consume less calories.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Jenna Evelyn (@jennaevelyn) is a beauty and lifestyle influencer on TikTok who regularly shares about her weight loss journey. According to Jenna, she lost “15 to 20 pounds in two to three months” after “gaining the freshman 15” while living on campus during her first year of college. In one of her many viral TikTok videos, she reveals how she lost weight using five simple hacks.


1. Jenna Gained “About 30” Pounds From Drinking Every Weekend and Other Unhealthy Habits

@jennaevelynnn

How I lost 15-20 pounds after my freshman year of college. 10k steps a day, low-cal, high protein meals, and strength training + pilates! #weightloss #freshman15 #howilostweight #weightransformation #healthylifestyle #mealprep #pilates

Jenna, who is currently a college student, reveals that she “probably gained about 20 pounds” while being a freshman in college due to “drinking every weekend, not being in a deficit, not hitting my protein goals, and not working out the right way for my body,” she reveals in her viral video. “Here's what I did to actually lose the 15 to 20 pounds very quickly.”

2. Low Calorie, High Protein Meals

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According to Jenna “food was the biggest thing,” when it came to her weight loss. “I was still eating a lot, but it was low calorie, high protein,” she added. Her “staples” for low cal high protein meals? “Chickpea pasta” and fat free cottage cheese, which she made sauces out of and “used it in everything,” she added. She also ate a lot of ground turkey. “I would make taco bowls,” she said. She also ate chicken and Greek yogurt “all the time” and turkey bacon. “I'd make breakfast sandwiches,” she added. Research supporting amping up protein intake for weight loss. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

Related: 12 Steps to Sculpt the Ultimate Chest

3. Weight Training and Pilates

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Jenna maintains that she started losing weight, when she started doing “low impact workouts, like walking dumbbell only lifts, and Pilates,” she said. “Here was my weekly workout split: Monday dumbbell only glutes Tuesday, full body Pilates. Wednesday, back buys, arms, dumbbell only Thursday, Pilates Friday, quad dumbbell, only Saturday cardio.”

4. 10,000 Steps a Day

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Jenna explains that one “huge” component of her weight loss was walking. “Hit your 10,000 steps a day,” she says. “Some of those steps for me before my workouts would come from walking, doing the 12-3-30 workout or the stair stepper.” The 12-3-30 workout involves using a treadmill and walking on a level 12 incline at a speed of 3 for 30 minutes. Experts maintain that it burns more calories than walking fast or even running on a flat surface. And, studies, including a 2018 study published in the journal Obesity, have found that walking around 10,000 steps per day can help you lose weight. But that’s not the only benefit of getting your steps in. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure and fewer strokes.

Related: I'm a Fitness Expert and This is My Simple Beginner's Diet Plan That Actually Works

5. Meal Prep

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Finally, meal prepping and using high quality ingredients, was a key part of Jenna’s weight loss plan. “It was so important that I made enough time to meal prep local, high protein meals so that they were always on hand,” she said. There is scientific evidence supporting the benefits of meal planning. Studies the more meals you eat prepared away from home, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. And, one study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found meal planning was associated with a healthier diet and less obesity.

💪🔥Body Booster: Walking 10,000 steps a day isn’t only good for your body and losing weight, but your mind. One study linked the daily step goal to a decreased risk of dementia and less cardiovascular disease.

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Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Looking to lose weight fast? Soraya (@project.s.lifestyle) is a weight loss coach and TikTok influencer with a massive following on social media. In her many viral videos she shares tips on how to lose weight and get into the best shape of your life. In one of them, she revealed a few ways to lose weight fast – in both sustainable and unsustainable ways. “If you want to lose weight fast for a special occasion, here's exactly what you need to do,” she says in the clip. We also asked The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on her approach.


Intermittent Fast and Cut Out Fast Food

@project.s.lifestyle

How to lose weight FAST for a special occassion #weightlosscoach #weightlossforwomen #weightlosstips

The first thing you need to do? “Cut out all fast food and limit your eating window from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM and only have two meals within that time frame,” she says.

Related: Blogilates Creator Cassey Ho Reveals Abs in “Fairytale” Running Shorts

Run a Mile a Day and Do 10 Minutes of Ab Work Daily

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Next up, exercise. According to Soraya you need to “run a mile a day and do 10 minutes of abs right before bed.”

Weigh Yourself Daily

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Finally, “number three, weigh yourself every single day in the morning to keep track of your daily progress,” Soraya says.

If You Do That, You Will Lose Weight, But Likely Gain It Back

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“Now, if you do this, you will lose weight fast, but you know what else? At some point you're going to get overwhelmed, exhausted, have overwhelming cravings, go right back to old habits and regain the weight, if not even more weight,” she continues. “On top of that, it'll worsen your relationship with food and create a really toxic relationship with the scale. So forget all that,” she says.

Calorie Deficit with Foods You Enjoy

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“If you want to lose weight and actually keep it off for good, here's what you need to do,” she continues, offering a few healthier weight loss methods. “Number one, eat in a healthy deficit and include foods that you actually enjoy,” she says.

Work Out Three to Four Times a Week

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“Number two, get three to four workouts in per week,” Soraya says, adding that you need to strength train.

Walk 30 Minutes a Day

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“Number three, walk 30 minutes every day,” she concludes.

Related: I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

RDN Says: Thumbs Up

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Collingwood says that Soraya’s advice “is very practical and not extreme,” and overall, gives it a thumbs up. “Incorporating walking, exercise, strength training, etc. along with reducing calories makes perfect sense,” she says. However, “there is no need to do abs right before bed…any time of the day will work.” She also likes that she is encouraging eating foods you enjoy. “She isn’t really giving major guidelines around portions or frequency, so some people might have a hard time with knowing exactly how much they can eat and still lose weight. She is encouraging only a 6 hour eating window which is pretty strict. I tend to recommend at least an 8 hour window and more like a 10-12 hour window of fasting each day.”

💪🔥Body Booster: The less restrictive a weight loss diet you commit to, the more likely you are to stick to it.

Liam Topham theliamtopham
Copyright theliamtopham/Instagram

Are you trying to lose weight but need some tips on how to do so? Liam Topham is a diet and fitness coach who helps professionals “shed belly fat, get jacked, and feel energized by running their body like a high-performing business,” he writes in his Instagram bio.”20 tips to lose 20 pounds in the next 50 days,” he writes.

Eat More Eggs

The first tip? Crack those eggs. “Eat eggs every day. They’re a superfood that makes fat loss easier,” he writes.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Don’t Drink as Much Alcohol

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Next, avoid drinking your calories. “Minimize alcohol until you hit your target weight. These are empty calories,” he says.

Drink Coffee

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You can enjoy coffee but don’t add anything to it. “Drink black coffee in the morning. It will suppress your appetite,” Topham says.

No Food After Dinner

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Don’t succumb to late night cravings. “No food after dinner. Brush your teeth. Your cravings will disappear,” he maintains.

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

Don’t Starve Yourself

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Skipping meals to save calories may be tempting, but it’s a mistake. “Avoid long periods without eating, you’ll end up overeating or binging later,” he says.

Walk 10,000 Steps Per Day

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Lace-up your walking — not running — shoes. “Stop running and walk 10k+ steps a day instead,” he suggests.

Don’t Eat Peanut Butter

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“Avoid peanut butter,” says Topham. “It’s high in calories, low in protein, and you’ll want to eat the whole tub.”

Don’t Eat Unless You Are Really Hungry

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Don’t eat unless you are really hungry. “Before you eat, ask yourself: ‘Am I bored, thirsty, or stressed?’ If the answer is yes, don’t eat,” he says.

Harness Negative Emotions

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“If you rate your body less than 5 out of 10, harness those negative emotions to take action,” he says about his ninth tip.

Stick to Certain Proteins

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He also recommends sticking to specific proteins. “Make beef, chicken, and seafood your primary protein sources. These will fill you up,” he explains.

Eat Lots of Produce

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Fill your fridge with lots of produce. “Load up on fruits and vegetables—you’ll never overeat on these foods,” he says.

Spice Up Your Food with Healthy Condiments

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Jazz up your meals by keeping delicious but healthy condiments on hand. “Use low-calorie/zero-calorie condiments like Frank’s Red Hot,” he says.

Indulge in Moderation

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You are allowed to eat your favorite foods but do so in moderation. “It’s fine to eat pizza, burgers, and chocolate occasionally because you’re human—but not ALL the time,” says Topham.

Don’t Eat Fake Meat

Alameda, CA - Feb 22, 2024: Grocery store refrigerator section with Beyond and Impossible Burger brand plant based patties. Plant based proteins can be as healthy as animal based proteins.

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When it comes to meat alternatives like Beyond Meat, don’t bother says Topham. “Put fake meat in the garbage,” he says.

Avoid Extreme Diets

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Avoid extreme diets. “Don’t do any extreme diets that cut out entire food groups like keto or carnivore unless you want to hate your life,” Topham recommends.

Only Drink Diet Soda

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If you like sweet, bubbly drinks, make sure they are sugar-free. “Swap regular soda for diet soda,” urges Topham.

Weigh Yourself Daily

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Don’t get rid of your scale. “Weigh yourself every day and take a 7-day average. Expect fluctuations—that’s normal,” he says.

RELATED:I Got Into the Best Shape of My Life at 50 by Following These 6 "Basics"

Eat Meals on Repeat

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Don’t worry about getting bored of your meals. Be consistent with them. “Repeat the same meals Monday-Friday. Change them up on weekends,” he says.

Strength Train

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Strength training is also essential. “Lift weights for 45-60 minutes. 2-hour sessions are a waste of time,” says Topham.

Know Your Why

And last but not least? “Start with your why. You deserve to function at your highest potential, and so do your spouse and kids. Define the reasons you want to get fit and healthy, and stop settling for less,” he says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Kelsey_Rose14
Copyright thekelseyrose_/Instagram
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Unless you live under a rock, you are well aware that walking is one of the best workouts for losing weight and maintaining your overall health. However, getting the recommended steps to lose weight and burn fat can be difficult, especially if you have a job. Kelsey Rose is a fitness trainer and social media influencer with hundreds of thousands of followers. In a new post, she issues a “PSA” about walking, explaining that “the #1 tool for FAT LOSS for women is literally free!!” According to Kelsey, if you have a “sedentary” job where you only get in 2,500 steps a day, adding a 30-minute walk before and after work will help you burn an additional 260 calories a day, which could help you lose 10 to 15 pounds in 6 months if paired with an 80/20 diet. “10 other hot tips for hitting those daily steps when working a 9-5,” she writes.

1. Turn Your Morning Routine into Movement

Per Kelsey, the first thing you should do is incorporate walking into your morning routine. “Instead of scrolling or lingering over coffee, use 10-15 minutes in the morning to pace around your home, stretch, or go for a quick walk. I wake up in the morning and go outside first thing!” she writes.

2. Take Active Commutes

Turn your commute into a workout, Kelsey encourages. “If possible, walk or bike to work. If you drive, park farther away or get off public transport a stop early to squeeze in extra steps,” she says.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

3. Walk During Meetings

Try and get your steps in while you work by multitasking, Kelsey suggests. “Turn phone calls or virtual meetings into walking meetings. Pop in your headphones and take your call while pacing or walking outside,” she says.

4. Use the Stairs

Turn your office stairwell into a StairMaster, suggests the trainer. “Ditch the elevator! Take the stairs whenever you can to sneak in extra movement,” she writes.

5. Set Hourly Step Goals

Set hourly goals instead of a daily goal to get your body moving. “Set a timer to remind yourself to get up every hour. Walk around the office or do a quick lap at home if you’re working remotely,” says Kelsey.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

6. Take Your Lunch Break Outside

Use your lunch break as an opportunity to get fresh air plus exercise. “Go for a brisk walk after eating. It’s a great way to recharge while adding steps to your day,” she says.

7. Use a Smaller Water Bottle

While most experts recommend using large water bottles, a smaller one may help you stay more active. “A smaller bottle means more trips to refill it. Plus, staying hydrated keeps your energy up!” she writes.

8. Walk During Breaks

If you take breaks throughout the work day, use them as an opportunity to take mini walks. “Instead of scrolling on your phone, take a 5-10 minute stroll during your morning or afternoon breaks,” Kelsey writes.

9. Make Errands Active

Multitasking during errands can help you get even more activity in. “Walk to grab coffee, pick up lunch, or drop off documents. Even small tasks can help you rack up steps,” suggests Kelsey.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

10. End Your Day with a Walk

Finally, use the end of the day as a time to reflect and get a workout in. “Wind down after work with a 20-30 minute evening walk. It’s a relaxing way to hit your step goals and clear your mind,” says Kelsey. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Kassie Magnusen kassie_beth_
Coach Lost 60 Pounds Eating These 11 High Protein Meals
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Do you want to lose 10 pounds by bikini season? One expert has the meals to help you achieve your weight loss goals. Kassie Magnusen is a weight loss and nutrition coach who helps “busy mamas drop fat & get the sculpted body they’ve always wanted,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she recommends a handful of weight-loss meals. “Fat loss comes down to eating smart, fueling your body, and keeping meals simple but high in protein. If I wanted to drop 10 lbs before summer, these are 5 meals I’d be eating on repeat,” she writes. “Eating like THIS = fat loss that actually feels good.”

High-Protein Berry Oatmeal

This breakfast dish is packed with 35g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup oats + ½ scoop vanilla protein powder
  • ½ cup almond milk + ½ cup mixed berries
  • ½ tbsp peanut butter + cinnamon.

Why it works: “Keeps energy stable, is high in fiber & protein, and actually fills you up,” she says.

Grilled Chicken & Quinoa Bowl

Grilled or roasted chicken breast, whole and sliced on a wooden serving plate​Greek Chicken BowlShutterstock

This bowl of grilled chicken and grain offers 40g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz grilled chicken breast
  • ½ cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil + lemon juice.

Why it works: “Protein + fiber + healthy fats = no cravings,” she says.

Turkey Taco Bowl

Raw Turkey breast fillets minced meat on black plate ready to cook​Lean Turkey Taco Lettuce WrapsShutterstock

Next is a Mexican-inspired dish made with ground turkey with 38g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz lean ground turkey (93/7)
  • ½ cup cooked jasmine rice
  • ¼ avocado + 2 tbsp salsa
  • ¼ cup black beans + taco seasoning.

Why it works: “Balanced with protein, carbs & fats—plus, it actually tastes good,” she says.

Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Potatoes

Pan fried butter garlic shrimp on plate

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Shrimp and potatoes are a satisfying combination with 35g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz shrimp, sautéed in 1 tbsp butter & garlic
  • ½ cup roasted sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup sautéed spinach.

Why it works: “Nutrient-dense, high in protein, and easy to make,” she says.

High-Protein Chocolate Yogurt Bowl

Chocolate colour protein, whey powder sprinkle in cup. Bodybuilding, fitness and gym lifestyleShutterstock

This could be good as a breakfast or dessert, with 30g of protein

Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup Greek yogurt (plain, 0%)
  • ½ scoop chocolate protein powder
  • ½ tbsp almond butter
  • 1 tbsp granola.

Why it works: “Satisfies sweet cravings while keeping protein high,” she says.

Buffalo Chicken Wrap

fresh chicken breast raw on cutting board​8. ChickenShutterstock

In another post she adds three lunch recipes for weight loss.

Ingredients:

  • -1 whole-grain wrap
  • - 4 oz shredded rotisserie chicken
  • -2 tbsp Primal Kitchen Buffalo Ranch Dressing (~70 cals)
  • - shredded lettuce, diced tomato, shredded carrot.

Macros: 40g protein | 26g carbs | 11g fat | 410 calories.

Greek Chicken Bowl

cooking and home concept - close up of female emptying jar with quinoaShutterstock

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz cooked chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/4 cup diced cucumber & tomato
  • 2 tbsp tzatziki sauce
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli (optional for extra veg).

Macros: 38g protein | 37g carbs | 10g fat | 495 calories.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Taco Bowl

Raw minced beef uncooked meat over board​Burger BowlShutterstock

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz lean ground turkey or beef browned, then add taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/4 cup black beans
  • 1/4 cup corn
  • 1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheese
  • 2 tbsp salsa
  • 1 tbsp light sour cream (optional).

Garlic Butter Steak & Sweet Potato Skillet

Overhead shot of chef preparing ribeye with butter, thyme and garlic. Keto diet.

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In another post, she shares more meals that will help you lose weight.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean sirloin steak, cubed

• 2 large sweet potatoes, diced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt & pepper.

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sweet potatoes, season with paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 8-10 min until tender.

2. Push potatoes to the side, add butter and garlic, then cook steak bites for 3-4 min per side.

3. Mix everything together and serve!

(40g protein, 420 cals per serving).

Teriyaki Salmon & Rice

Honey teriyaki salmon with green beans and rice, top view. Asian cuisine recipe.Shutterstock

Ingredients:

• 4 (4 oz) salmon fillets

• 2 cups cooked brown rice

• 2 cups steamed broccoli

• ¼ cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400. Place salmon on baking sheet, brush with teriyaki sauce, bake for 12-15 min

2. While salmon cooks, steam broccoli and prepare rice

3. Drizzle salmon with extra sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with rice & broccoli.

(35g protein, 400 cals per serving),

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

mexican chili chicken stew​Slow Cooker Salsa ChickenShutterstock

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 1 jar (16 oz) salsa

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained

• 1 cup frozen corn

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (per serving).

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, salsa, beans, corn, and spices in slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours

2. Shred chicken with forks and mix everything together

3. Serve over jasmine rice or in tortillas for a family taco night

(38g protein, 410 cals per serving) And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr Jennifer McCann The GYN MD
5 Expert Tips to Keep Weight Off After Ozempic
Copyright The GYN MD/YouTube
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Struggling to reach your weight loss goals despite your best efforts? You're not alone. Millions of Americans face this challenge daily, even with the newest medical options available. Dr. Jennifer McCann, board-certified in both OB/GYN and Obesity Medicine, has been helping women optimize their health for over 12 years. "I specialize in complete women's care that incorporates total wellness, including considerations in gynecology, hormonal status and weight optimization," says Dr. McCann. Read on to discover how to maximize your results with today's most talked-about weight loss treatments.

Understanding Weight Loss Injections

Before diving into strategies for success, it's important to understand what these medications actually do. "These injections include medicines like semaglutide, otherwise known as Ozempic, and tirzepatide (Mounjaro)," Dr. McCann explains in her video. While semaglutide has FDA approval for weight loss in certain individuals, Mounjaro is currently approved only for type 2 diabetes—though many patients experience significant weight reduction with both.

According to Dr. McCann, these medications work through several mechanisms: "They inhibit glucagon release which reduces hunger, decrease glucose production from the liver, delay gastric emptying, and reduce appetite." These combined effects lead to what can be substantial weight loss, particularly beneficial for people with limited mobility who struggle with exercise-based approaches.

RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

Who Should Consider These Treatments?

Closeup hand pulling toilet paper roll in holder for wipe, woman sitting on toilet she taking and tearing white tissue on wall to towel clean in bathroom, Healthcare conceptShutterstock

"These medicines are not for everybody," cautions Dr. McCann. There are important contraindications to consider, including "a personal or family history of thyroid cancer or other endocrine problems or cancers." She emphasizes the importance of discussing your complete medical history with your physician before starting treatment.

Side effects can also occur. "They can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps," notes Dr. McCann. While these symptoms typically subside after a few weeks of treatment, she acknowledges they can sometimes persist longer.

Making the Most of Your Treatment

Never fear, your pharmacist is here. Cropped shot of an attractive young female pharmacist working in a pharmacy.​You Want It to Be Effective Without Side EffectsShutterstock

Dr. McCann views these medications as a starting point rather than a complete solution. "What I like to tell my patients is to use these medicines to really start your lifestyle change," she says. The initial weight loss provides momentum, but maintaining results requires building healthy habits during treatment.

With that foundation in mind, here are Dr. McCann's top three tips for maximizing your results while on weight loss injections:

Tip 1: Eliminate All Sodas and Sugary Drinks

Refreshing Bubbly Soda Pop with Ice Cubes. Cold soda iced drink in a glasses - Selective focus, shallow DOF.​2. Sugary DrinksShutterstock

The single most important dietary change? "Stop all sodas," Dr. McCann states emphatically. This includes not just carbonated soft drinks but all sugary beverages like slushes and sweetened coffee drinks.

The impact is staggering: "Drinking one can of soda can make you gain 15 pounds over one year," Dr. McCann explains. "It's virtually impossible to lose weight and keep it off if you drink soda, especially more than one can daily."

This doesn't mean giving up caffeine altogether. Dr. McCann suggests alternatives: "Coffee is a great alternative, especially either black coffee or mixed with a little bit of stevia. A sugar-free skinny latte is also a great option."

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Tip 2: Prioritize Protein with Every Meal

Chief hands cut salmon fillet with knife on wooden table at kitchen. Man cooking red omega fish with lemons for healthy nutrition diet​Teriyaki Salmon & RiceShutterstock

When appetite suppression kicks in, making your limited calories count becomes crucial. "Make sure that when you feel like eating, you get your protein, specifically lean protein," advises Dr. McCann.

There's science behind this recommendation. "Protein is what builds your muscle, and your muscle is what burns calories," she explains. "If you don't take in enough protein, you will lose muscle and won't be able to burn as many calories."

The metabolic benefits are significant: "Protein increases your metabolism by increasing your muscle, and that lets you burn more calories," says Dr. McCann. This creates a virtuous cycle that enhances the medication's effectiveness.

Tip 3: Incorporate Consistent Exercise

Stairs climbing running woman doing run up steps on staircase

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Exercise remains essential, even with powerful medications. "Exercise is very important for weight loss, for keeping the weight off, for your cardiovascular health," Dr. McCann emphasizes. She adds that it "actually is a natural remedy for anxiety because it releases cortisol."

For beginners, Dr. McCann recommends starting small: "If you're just starting out, 20 minutes four times a week through high intensity training, something like HIIT classes, will be just fine." As fitness improves, both duration and intensity can gradually increase.

Those with physical limitations shouldn't despair. "Exercise is still important, but you may need to talk to a personal trainer to see what exercises you specifically can do to help maintain your muscles," suggests Dr. McCann.

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

The Long-Term Perspective

Overweight,Woman,Eating,Healthy,Meal,In,Kitchen6 Metabolism Mistakes Making Women Over 40 Gain WeightShutterstock

These medications offer a valuable opportunity to reset your relationship with food and activity. "Make sure to use this weight loss boost to start your healthy living," Dr. McCann advises, "so that you can lose even more weight and be able to keep it off after you stop the injections."The habits you develop during treatment will determine your long-term success. By eliminating sugary drinks, prioritizing protein, and incorporating regular exercise now, you're building the foundation for sustainable results that last well beyond your final injection. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Mahtab Ekay fitbymahtab
​Step Two: Increase Protein Intake
Copyright fitbymahtab/Instagram
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Are you strength training to lose weight? If so, there are a few tweaks you can make to your routine to accelerate the weight loss process. Mahtab Ekay is a fat loss coach and social media influencer who lost over 20 pounds and helps others do the same. In a new post she shares a few of her hacks. “If you are lifting weights and your goal is to lose fat and build muscle at the same time, here are my 7 best tips to make it happen,” she writes.

Sets: Quality > Quantity

“If you have 3 sets planned for an exercise, those should be 3 working sets. This means they should be close to failure—where you can barely complete the last rep. The real growth happens in the 2-3 reps after you feel like you’re done,” she says.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Reps: Go Heavy

When it comes to reps, go heavy. “The myth that high reps with lower weight are better for fat loss needs to go. Instead, aim for 8-12 reps with heavier weights. This rep range is ideal for hypertrophy (muscle growth) while also building strength,” she claims.

Cardio: Time it Right

How you time your cardio makes a difference. “If you want to incorporate cardio, do it after your lifting session or on rest days. Doing cardio before lifting can sap your strength and take away from your ability to give 100% in your strength training,” she says.

Rest Time: Don’t Rush It

Don’t rush your rest time. “You don’t need to keep your heart rate up during your entire workout. In fact, the opposite is true! Take 1.5-2 minutes to fully recover and lift heavier during your working sets. Quality over speed!” she says.

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

Nutrition: Eat Near Maintenance

As for nutrition, eat near maintenance. “To build muscle and lose fat, I recommend eating close to maintenance calories or a slight deficit—not more than a 500-calorie deficit per day. Don’t go into a crazy deficit—it’ll make it harder to maintain your strength and muscle while losing fat,” she says.

Progressive Overload

“Even if you’re in a slight deficit, you should still aim to get stronger. Try to progressively overload your lifts by adding weight or increasing reps over time. Some lifts like the bench press might be harder to progress, but there are ways around it!” she says.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Start with Compound Movements

Finally, start with compound movements. “Always begin your workout with compound lifts (squats, deadlifts, bench presses) because they recruit more muscle groups, and since your energy is highest at the start, you can lift heavier and perform better,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.