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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.

5 Standing Exercises for Bat Wings That Take Just 10 Minutes

Say goodbye to arm flab with this quick, equipment-free routine

Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMar 10, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓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.

Meredith_Shirk8
I'm a Personal Trainer and These 5 Moves Banished My Clients' Bat Wings in Weeks
Copyright Meredith Shirk/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMar 10, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓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.

Fitness & Workouts

We've all experienced it—waving goodbye only to notice the skin on the back of our arms continuing to wave after we've stopped. These "bat wings," as they're commonly called, are a frustration for many. "You guys know what bat wings are? It's when you're wavin, and it goes wave after you've stopped waving, it's still waving," explains Meredith Shirk, Founder of Svelte Training and NASM Certified Health & Body Specialist. The good news? Meredith has designed a simple, equipment-free workout that targets this troublesome area in just 10 minutes. "I am so excited because of an easy and effective bat wing workout. So we're gonna get rid of those bat wings," she promises. Ready to transform those bat wings into toned, defined arms? These five standing exercises might be exactly what you need.

Exercise 1: Tricep Kickbacks (30 seconds)

The workout begins with tricep kickbacks. "Chest up, shoulders back, palms up to the sky and just kicking straight back, bending over and really pressing through your heels," Meredith instructs in her post. This activates your posterior chain, including glutes, hamstrings, and calves while targeting those triceps.

"Push back and squeeze, back and squeeze. Really feel like you're getting that squeeze because that's what's gonna build the muscle," emphasizes Meredith. She reminds us to engage our core: "Pull that belly button in. Everything's core workout."

Exercise 2: Prayer Push Out (30 seconds)

Detail of wide open hands together in the front. Unrecognizable african american man doing a triangle sign shape with the hands. Stop racism and embrace different ethnics. Afro culture lifestyle. Prayer Push Out

Shutterstock

Next up is the prayer push out. "Hands together, like, oh, please for my arms. And then you're gonna push out into like almost a diamond and then push back in," says Meredith.

The effectiveness of this exercise depends entirely on tension. "Now the key is you can do this all day long and it's not gonna do anything for you. You have to press your hands together as hard as you can, press your feet into the ground as hard as you can, press your hands out, keeping tension," Meredith explains. "So if you feel like, oh, this isn't doing anything, you need to push your hands together harder here because you should feel it underneath and in that tricep."

Exercise 3: Lateral Arm Raises (30 seconds)

Group of multiethnic mature people stretching arms outdoor. Middle aged yoga class doing breathing exercise at park. Beautifil women and fit men doing breath exercise together with outstretched arms.Shutterstock

For the third exercise, extend your arms out to the sides. Meredith describes these as "just like angel wings." After the lateral raises, you'll hold your arms straight out: "Now going straight out. Don't let those arms drop, 30 seconds. So it's gonna get hard now."

Meredith emphasizes full-body engagement: "Chest up, shoulders back, engaging, push through your heels, engage in those legs and pull the shoulders back. You want this to be a full body workout even though you're just moving your arms." She adds, "Pull that belly button in towards the spine. Good, keep those fingers extending out, shoulders down."

Exercise 4: Crisscross Arms (30 seconds)

a man does an exercise with his knees. the boy does sports. Crisscross Arms, scissorsShutterstock

The fourth exercise involves crossing your arms in front of your body. "Crisscross applesauce. People used to say that to me. I don't even know what that means. What does crisscross applesauce even mean? But you're crisscrossing your arms," Meredith shares with a touch of humor.

As with the other exercises, proper form is crucial: "Things are pressing your hands out. So you're nice and tight in your shoulders and your triceps." She reinforces the importance of full-body engagement: "Don't forget about your legs because it all starts in the ground up. So push your feet in the ground, starting through heels, then go up through your ankles, into your calves, all the way up your hamstrings."

Exercise 5: Small Arm Circles (30 seconds)

Full-length photo of a young athletic woman performing arm exercises. Woman in standing pose with arms outstretched.

Shutterstock

The final exercise consists of small, controlled arm circles. "Forward for 30 seconds. Really feel like you're just making a, the size of almost, I'd say a baseball," Meredith instructs. The key is keeping the circles small: "You're going big volleyball, then you go, whoa, exercise ball, right? That's different. It's the little ones."

With her characteristic enthusiasm, Meredith adds: "Little ones, big ones, little ones. I feel like I'm talking to Cruz. Sorry, Cruz is my two and a half year old son. I just get confused sometimes."

Complete the 10-Minute Workout

Portrait of mature woman stretching her arms and looking away at gym. Beautiful woman performing yoga in warrior pose, Virabhadrasana.

Shutterstock

Meredith recommends performing the entire circuit twice for optimal results. "Now, time to do it again," she says after completing the first round. Since each exercise takes 30 seconds and you'll do two complete rounds, the total workout time comes to just 10 minutes (5 exercises × 30 seconds × 2 rounds = 10 minutes).

Between each exercise, shake out your arms briefly before moving to the next movement. "If your arms aren't burning, I'll tell you what, shake them out. Those things are gonna kill your arms," Meredith warns.

Why This 10-Minute Approach Works

Young woman pinching arm fat flabby skin10 Ways to Lose Your Arm Flab in 4 WeeksShutterstock

The beauty of this workout lies in its simplicity, efficiency, and effectiveness. No equipment needed, just your body weight and proper form. As Meredith says, "This is how you get rid of these bat wings."

While each 30-second exercise might seem brief, the combination of all five movements performed with proper tension and form creates an effective tricep-targeting routine. The short timeframe makes it easy to fit into even the busiest schedule—just 10 minutes, three times a week can lead to noticeable improvements.

Remember, while this workout specifically targets the triceps area, Meredith emphasizes making it a full-body effort by maintaining proper posture, engaging your core, and pressing through your feet.

Final Thoughts

Senior african american couple performing stretching exercise together at the beach. fitness yoga and healthy lifestyle conceptShutterstock

At the end of the workout, Meredith encourages: "I hope you love this bat wings workout. Now, if you want more awesome arm workouts and leg workouts and butt workouts, hit up there, like, subscribe, and check out all of our awesome videos."

With consistency and proper form, this 10-minute standing workout can be an effective tool in your journey toward more toned, defined arms. The best part? You can do it right at home, with no equipment, in less time than it takes to watch a sitcom episode.

home-workouts

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Fitness & Workouts

5 Standing Exercises for Bat Wings That Take 10 Minutes

Meredith_Shirk8
I'm a Personal Trainer and These 5 Moves Banished My Clients' Bat Wings in Weeks
Copyright Meredith Shirk/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMar 10, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓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.

We've all experienced it—waving goodbye only to notice the skin on the back of our arms continuing to wave after we've stopped. These "bat wings," as they're commonly called, are a frustration for many. "You guys know what bat wings are? It's when you're wavin, and it goes wave after you've stopped waving, it's still waving," explains Meredith Shirk, Founder of Svelte Training and NASM Certified Health & Body Specialist. The good news? Meredith has designed a simple, equipment-free workout that targets this troublesome area in just 10 minutes. "I am so excited because of an easy and effective bat wing workout. So we're gonna get rid of those bat wings," she promises. Ready to transform those bat wings into toned, defined arms? These five standing exercises might be exactly what you need.

Exercise 1: Tricep Kickbacks (30 seconds)

The workout begins with tricep kickbacks. "Chest up, shoulders back, palms up to the sky and just kicking straight back, bending over and really pressing through your heels," Meredith instructs in her post. This activates your posterior chain, including glutes, hamstrings, and calves while targeting those triceps.

"Push back and squeeze, back and squeeze. Really feel like you're getting that squeeze because that's what's gonna build the muscle," emphasizes Meredith. She reminds us to engage our core: "Pull that belly button in. Everything's core workout."

Exercise 2: Prayer Push Out (30 seconds)

Detail of wide open hands together in the front. Unrecognizable african american man doing a triangle sign shape with the hands. Stop racism and embrace different ethnics. Afro culture lifestyle. Prayer Push Out

Shutterstock

Next up is the prayer push out. "Hands together, like, oh, please for my arms. And then you're gonna push out into like almost a diamond and then push back in," says Meredith.

The effectiveness of this exercise depends entirely on tension. "Now the key is you can do this all day long and it's not gonna do anything for you. You have to press your hands together as hard as you can, press your feet into the ground as hard as you can, press your hands out, keeping tension," Meredith explains. "So if you feel like, oh, this isn't doing anything, you need to push your hands together harder here because you should feel it underneath and in that tricep."

Exercise 3: Lateral Arm Raises (30 seconds)

Group of multiethnic mature people stretching arms outdoor. Middle aged yoga class doing breathing exercise at park. Beautifil women and fit men doing breath exercise together with outstretched arms.Shutterstock

For the third exercise, extend your arms out to the sides. Meredith describes these as "just like angel wings." After the lateral raises, you'll hold your arms straight out: "Now going straight out. Don't let those arms drop, 30 seconds. So it's gonna get hard now."

Meredith emphasizes full-body engagement: "Chest up, shoulders back, engaging, push through your heels, engage in those legs and pull the shoulders back. You want this to be a full body workout even though you're just moving your arms." She adds, "Pull that belly button in towards the spine. Good, keep those fingers extending out, shoulders down."

Exercise 4: Crisscross Arms (30 seconds)

a man does an exercise with his knees. the boy does sports. Crisscross Arms, scissorsShutterstock

The fourth exercise involves crossing your arms in front of your body. "Crisscross applesauce. People used to say that to me. I don't even know what that means. What does crisscross applesauce even mean? But you're crisscrossing your arms," Meredith shares with a touch of humor.

As with the other exercises, proper form is crucial: "Things are pressing your hands out. So you're nice and tight in your shoulders and your triceps." She reinforces the importance of full-body engagement: "Don't forget about your legs because it all starts in the ground up. So push your feet in the ground, starting through heels, then go up through your ankles, into your calves, all the way up your hamstrings."

Exercise 5: Small Arm Circles (30 seconds)

Full-length photo of a young athletic woman performing arm exercises. Woman in standing pose with arms outstretched.

Shutterstock

The final exercise consists of small, controlled arm circles. "Forward for 30 seconds. Really feel like you're just making a, the size of almost, I'd say a baseball," Meredith instructs. The key is keeping the circles small: "You're going big volleyball, then you go, whoa, exercise ball, right? That's different. It's the little ones."

With her characteristic enthusiasm, Meredith adds: "Little ones, big ones, little ones. I feel like I'm talking to Cruz. Sorry, Cruz is my two and a half year old son. I just get confused sometimes."

Complete the 10-Minute Workout

Portrait of mature woman stretching her arms and looking away at gym. Beautiful woman performing yoga in warrior pose, Virabhadrasana.

Shutterstock

Meredith recommends performing the entire circuit twice for optimal results. "Now, time to do it again," she says after completing the first round. Since each exercise takes 30 seconds and you'll do two complete rounds, the total workout time comes to just 10 minutes (5 exercises × 30 seconds × 2 rounds = 10 minutes).

Between each exercise, shake out your arms briefly before moving to the next movement. "If your arms aren't burning, I'll tell you what, shake them out. Those things are gonna kill your arms," Meredith warns.

Why This 10-Minute Approach Works

Young woman pinching arm fat flabby skin10 Ways to Lose Your Arm Flab in 4 WeeksShutterstock

The beauty of this workout lies in its simplicity, efficiency, and effectiveness. No equipment needed, just your body weight and proper form. As Meredith says, "This is how you get rid of these bat wings."

While each 30-second exercise might seem brief, the combination of all five movements performed with proper tension and form creates an effective tricep-targeting routine. The short timeframe makes it easy to fit into even the busiest schedule—just 10 minutes, three times a week can lead to noticeable improvements.

Remember, while this workout specifically targets the triceps area, Meredith emphasizes making it a full-body effort by maintaining proper posture, engaging your core, and pressing through your feet.

Final Thoughts

Senior african american couple performing stretching exercise together at the beach. fitness yoga and healthy lifestyle conceptShutterstock

At the end of the workout, Meredith encourages: "I hope you love this bat wings workout. Now, if you want more awesome arm workouts and leg workouts and butt workouts, hit up there, like, subscribe, and check out all of our awesome videos."

With consistency and proper form, this 10-minute standing workout can be an effective tool in your journey toward more toned, defined arms. The best part? You can do it right at home, with no equipment, in less time than it takes to watch a sitcom episode.

Fitness & Workouts

15-Minute Fat-Burning Workout To Tone Your Entire Body

Bree_Argetsinger3
The Betty Rocker/YouTube
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMay 07, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

The Betty Rocker, aka Bree Argetsinger, is a health coach and fitness motivator, who regularly shares videos of her “fast fun” workouts that can be done anywhere, diet hacks, and healthy living tips. In a recent YouTube video she shared a 15-minute full body HIIT circuit that you can do in the comfort of your own home – or anywhere else for that matter.

1. You Can Do This 15 Minute Workout Anywhere

Bree_Argetsinger4The Betty Rocker/YouTube

“We're going to get super energized, burst some fat work all of our muscles, head to toe in just about 15 minutes, so pay close attention to the form, tips and modifications that I share with you and use the information below this video on the blog for all of the additional mods and form tips for you to read through,” she says, adding that the workout requires zero equipment, can be done “absolutely anywhere,” and will “totally energize you and make you feel amazing.” She recommends keeping a water bottle on hand. “We want to stay hydrated and feel free to pause the video at any time if you need a little more rest than what I'm taking” she adds.

2. Exercise 1: Squat Thrusts

The first exercise in the circuit is called a squat thrust. “You're going to drop down, plate your hands below your shoulders, shoot your feet back, then jump it back, load the weight in your heels and jump up,” she explains, adding that “you can absolutely take the jump out of it and just power up into a squat, squeezing your butt as you come up, go at your own pace.”

Related: #1 Weight Loss Food Mistake You Are Making

3. Exercise 2: Super Mario

Excited,African,American,Young,Woman,Have,Fun,In,Living,Room,jumping,jump, exerciseShutterstock

Next up, an exercise called Super Mario. “If you ever played Mario Brothers, when you're a kid, you'll love this,” she says. It starts by stepping back “with our left knee and as we power up, we're going to reach for a gold coin with our left hand, so it's a reverse lunge and a jump,” she explains. “So just a little hop on the left foot.” If the move is too challenging, she suggests leaving out the jump. “I want you to power up with a knee drive, step back into reverse lunge, power up with the knee drive. Make sure when you do this that you land lightly to the last one,” she says. Then, switch sides and balance weight on the right foot, stepping back with the left and reaching for a gold coin with the right hand.

4. Exercise 3: V Ups

Woman,Doing,Paripurna,Navasana,Exercise,,Boat,Pose,,V UpsShutterstock

Next up is a core exercise called V Ups. Okay. “A V Up is when you use your core and you lift your toes to meet your hands in the air, forming a V with your body,” she explains. A modified version would be doing a knee up, with your knees up to your chest. “Each time you come down, make sure your lower back makes contact with the floor mat. That'll really help protect your back and really make sure you're getting enough out of this move.”

5. Exercise 4: Tuck Jump

Sporty,Young,Female,Athlete,Doing,High,Tuck,Jumps,exercise,fitnessShutterstock

Next up? The tuck jump. “It is challenging. It'll get your heart rate back up,” she says. Start by jump driving knees up towards the hands, “which we keep around chest or waist height,” she instructs. A modification would be doing body squats instead. “Make sure you keep the weight back in your heels and in your butt and keep your chest lifting. If you're doing the tuck jump, be sure to land lightly.”

Related: I Lost 160 Pounds and Here's 4 Ways I Took the Weight Off

6. Exercise 5: Two-Way Pushup

Wide,Grip,Pushup,Push-up,Variation,Advanced,Chest,Exercise,Shutterstock

Now it’s time for a two-way pushup. “Come on down to the mat. Make sure your hands are stacked below your shoulders. Do a regular pushup. Then walk your hands out wide. Do a wide pushup, hands in, push up wide, push up,” she instructs. “Absolutely fine to come down to your knees here at any time you want to save your chest and arms, be up on your toes as much as you can, and then drop down to your knees straight. Be sure your back is not arched.”

7. Exercise 6: Alternating Reverse Curtsy Lunge to Kick

Sport,And,Healthy,Lifestyle.,Fit,Black,Woman,Doing,Curtsy,LungesShutterstock

The final move is called an alternating reverse curtsy lunge to kick. “Here's what we're going to do. We're going to step it back into a reverse curtsy lunge. As you come up, we're going to kick step reverse curtsy on the other side. Kick step it over kick,” she continued. “If that kick feels a little bit too much, if you don't want to do it, I want you to switch to a knee,” she says. You could also have a chair here in front of you to hold onto the back of it to help you find your balance.

8. Go Through the Circuit Three Times

Bree_Argetsinger2The Betty Rocker/YouTube

Each set of exercises takes about five minutes. In the video she goes through the routine three times, for a total 15-minute workout. We suggest following along with Argetsinger’s demonstration to avoid any injuries. According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) there are many reasons why circuit training is a good idea. Not only is it a highly efficient method, studies have found that it can help decrease the risk of disease – one study found that high intensity circuit training reared greater improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides compared to low intensity circuit training or traditional endurance training – and can also improve heart health, aid in weight loss, and improve overall strength.

Related: 6 Simple Exercises You Can Do at Home Instead of Running

9. HIIT Workouts Have Many Benefits

Bree_Argetsinger1The Betty Rocker/YouTube

There is lots of research backing up the benefits of HIIT workouts, including body fat reduction, improved cardiovascular function, and mental health. It is also time effective.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you can’t do an exercise for whatever reason, making small modifications can help prevent injuries while still allowing you to achieve your health goals.

Fitness & Workouts

20-Minute Full-Body Workout You Can Do in Your Living Room

Nikolai_Puchlov_Headshot
Nikolai Puchlov
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMay 10, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

If you want to get a full-body workout in the comfort of your own home, investing in a few kettlebells is a must. “One of the greatest aspects of using a kettlebell for exercising is that you can use one light or medium kettlebell weight and an area roughly the size of a yoga mat to get a fun, full body strength and conditioning workout in as little as 15 or 20 minutes,” Nikolai Puchlov, Head Coach & Founder, Pro Kettlebell, tells Body Network. He created a home kettlebell workout exclusively for our readers, which tones and strengthens your entire body.

1. What to Know Before You Start

Colorful,Kettlebells,Row,In,A,GymShutterstock

A great thing about kettlebell workouts is that they are high intensity, low impact and can burn a lot of calories in a short time. And, like other forms of strength and weight training, you continue to burn more calories post workout than other cardio-based forms, due to post-exercise oxygen consumption. Puchlov adds that they help strengthen your muscles and joints and “provides cardio benefits at the same time.” This workout can easily be modified to the appropriate level by using lighter or heavier kettlebell weights and/or increasing or decreasing the pace at which you perform the exercise.

Related: I’m a Dietitian and Here’s What Happens to Your Body When You Give Up Sugar

2. Bodyweight Warm Up

Family,Workout.,African,American,Husband,And,Wife,Training,Together,high knees, warm, upShutterstock

First, start with a short bodyweight warm up.

  1. 30 seconds of air squats
  2. 30 seconds of toe touches
  3. 30 seconds of standing folding stars
  4. 30 seconds of high knees

3. Buns and Guns Kettlebell Exercises

Fitness,,workout,,Gym,Exercise,,Healthy,In,Exercise,kettleball,weights,kettlebellShutterstock

The first set of kettlebell exercises works the “buns and guns,” says Puchlov.

  1. Goblet squats
  2. Ribbons

30 seconds on 10 seconds off x 2 rounds

4. Chest and Core Kettlebell Exercises

,Sporty,Russian,Twists, abs exercises sit up, kettlebell, kettleball, gym, Personal, trainerShutterstock

Next, “turn that bird cage chest into a love nest and core,” says Puchlov.

  1. Bridge press
  2. Russian twist

30 seconds on 10 seconds off x 2 rounds

Related: I Lost Belly Fat With These 3 Easy Hacks You Can Do Today

5. Back and Biceps Kettlebell Exercises

,,Sporty,Athletic,Gym,curls,kettlebells,kettleballsShutterstock

The third section of kettlebell exercises works the back and biceps. “Baby got back and biceps,” quips Puchlov.

  1. One arm row (30 seconds per side)
  2. Cheat curls (30 seconds per side)

1 minute on 10 seconds off x 2 rounds

Related: Pro Bodybuilder Shows Off Six-Pack and Shares 5 Ways to Get Yours

6. Thigh and Triceps Kettlebell Exercises

Athlete,Exercise, Kettleball,Kettlebell,gymShutterstock

The final set of kettlebell exercises works the “thighceps and triceps,” says Puchlov.

5 repetitions each for AMRAP (As Many Rounds as Possible) in 3 minutes.

  1. Thrusters
  2. Deadlift
  3. Tricep Extensions

💪🔥Body Booster: Due to post-exercise oxygen consumption, you will not only burn a lot of calories in a short time during your workout, but will continue burning more calories post workout than other cardio-based forms of exercise.

Fitness & Workouts

5 Pilates Exercises for a Flat Stomach in 14 Days

Vas_Priebe
eso_transform_within/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJun 22, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

Pilates is one of the most popular workouts in the world for a reason: It helps people achieve that long, lean, and perfectly sculpted body that so many celebrities and models have. Vas Priebe is a Holistic Health Coach who is certified in both yoga and Pilates. She recently spoke with The Body Network about how to incorporate Pilates into your life and how it can help you achieve a flat stomach in just a few weeks.

Stretch First

Female,Workout,,Fitness,Training,stretch,stretching,exerciseShutterstock

“The biggest tip is stretching first so that your body is more open. When your body is more open, your body functions more effectively making muscle engagement easier. Better engagement equals better results,” says Vas.

Keep the Following in Mind Before You Start

Profile portrait of young attractive yogi woman breathing fresh air, her eyes closed, meditation pose, relaxation exercise, working out wearing black sportswear top, close up image, window backgroundShutterstock

Before moving onto her 5 exercises, she starts with the following tips:

  • Open inner thighs and hips before you begin your ab workout.
  • Less is more with abs when done properly.
  • Be patient, move intentionally with your breath, feel your body as you move and take your time.
  • Keep your neck, jaw, face, throat soft.Tension in those places steals the work away from the abs.
  • Abs should always be softening inward, as if they are hugging and supporting your spine, not bracing outward.

Related: Patrick Mahomes' "Natural Dad Bod" Has Everyone Talking. Here's How to Ditch It, According to Expert

Exercise 1: Wide Legged Forward Fold

Beautiful young woman in bright colorful sportswear working out indoors on blue mat. Girl doing Wide Legged Forward Bend, Prasarita Padottanasana posture. Full lengthShutterstock

“Take your arms out to a T and step your feet as wide as your arm span. Keep your feet facing forward. Hinge at your hips and place hands on the ground. Bend your knees and lengthen your spine to a table top position, arms beneath shoulders. Crown of head away from tail. Shift your weight back to the right heel as you lengthen and straighten your left leg. Hold for a breath cycle and then switch. Go back and forth, moving with breath for a minute or so,” says Vas.

Exercise 2: Runner’s Lunge

Positive athletic senior woman doing runner's lunge yoga pose on home workout, copy space. Sporty mature lady stretching her legs, exercising in living room. Domestic training during covid lockdownShutterstock

“Step your right foot outside your right hand. Turn your toes out slightly. Step your left leg back and lower back knee. Come to finger tips, lengthen and lift your spine tall, square your shoulders. Engage your glutes as you bend deeper into the lunge. Maintain length in spine and length through the back leg. Hold for 30 seconds or a few breath cycles and then switch,” she instructs.

Related: Fitness Guru Whitney Simmons Reveals 6 Secrets to Her Flat Tummy

Exercise 3: Table Top Knee Taps

Shirtless athletic man doing high plank knee touch workout on rooftop floor, home open air exercise concept, selective focusShutterstock

“Start in a table top position. Lengthen and lift your spine, crown of head reaches from tail. Square off shoulders and hips. Take an inhale and widen through your rib cage as you firmly press into the ground and maintain a long spine. Sustain your width and length as you exhale and lift your knees 2 inches from the ground.Inhale and tap them gently back down. Exhale and lift. Repeat 2 sets 8-10 reps,” suggests Vas.

Exercise 4: Supine Marches

Fitness woman working out on mat at homeShutterstock

“Lie on your back, arms by your side, legs in table top. Flex your ankles. Maintain a neutral pelvis. On an exhale, hinge at your hip and lower your right leg towards the ground. Knee stays bent in the tabletop position. Belly softens inward as leg lowers. Inhale and lift the leg back to start position. Move with your breath slowly, ensuring a sense of the abs softening inward on your exhale. Repeat 2 sets 8 reps on each side,” says Vas.

Related: 12 Powerful Ways to Transform Your Body at Any Age

Exercise 5: Chest Life

Side view of female in green wear sleeping outdoors after doing yoga exercises. Crop of woman relaxing peacefully after yoga exercising among grass holding hands behind head. Concept of calmness.Shutterstock

“Lie on your back, neutral pelvis, hands behind your head at the base of your skull. Elbows slightly wider than the shoulders. Lengthen through your under arms. Take legs to a table top position, knees together, toes pointed. Prep is important here. Lift your head and chest and hold. Take a big inhale into your side body as you lengthen through you under arms and engage your triceps and lats. Hold your head up with your arms so that you often your neck and engage your core. As you exhale, soften your abdominals into your body maintaining width through your rib cage and lower abs. Avoid your belly popping upwards, brace inward instead. Hold the position keeping an eye on your abs. Watch them on the exhale to ensure they are softening inward. Take 8-10 long slow breaths holding the position, legs in table top, head and chest lifted.”

💪🔥Body Booster:Research backs up the many benefits of Pilates. Studies have found it can help increase muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility, and improve posture and balance.

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Britany Williams Shares 10-Minute, Zero Equipment Beginner Workout

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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothAug 05, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

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If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Britany Williams is a personal trainer and influencer whose workouts are featured on the Sweat app. She regularly shares mini workouts via her Instagram account, many of which can be done without any equipment and in the comfort of your own home. She recently shared a quick but effective routine for beginners. “Need a no fuss QUICK workout? Try this 10 minute workout with no equipment needed from my new program The Daily 10 Challenge in the @sweat app 🎉” she captioned the series of clips, which demonstrate each of the exercises. Here is everything you need to know about the workout and all of her other diet and fitness tips.

No Equipment Needed

She recommends 5 exercises, doing each for 30 seconds, and completing 3 rounds of the set. “This workout targets your shoulders, core, quads and glutes - no equipment needed,” she explains.

  • Bird Dog
  • Supine March
  • Shoulder Cars
  • Glute Bridge
  • Lunge

Eat Foods That Make You Happy

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In a TikTok clip, Britany encourages her followers to change the way they eat. “Often we leave off the foods that give us joy when building our plate. When in reality, what if we started there? What if when you were building your meal plan or your diet or your whatever it is, what if you started your meal plan with keeping in the foods that make you happy and then you had to build around that? What on my plate today supports my nutrition and supports my goals, but what also supports my joy?” she says.

Related: I Lost 30 Pounds With This Walking Routine

Work Your Upper Body When You Are Unmotivated to Work Out

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“If you're the kind of girly who's motivated most days to workout, but then there's that one to two days a week that you just struggle with, save your upper body workouts for those days,” she suggests. “Mentally, there is something easier about standing still and just moving weight around with your arms and upper body than there is about having to lower your entire torso down into a squat or a lunge and getting back up. Zero percent backed by science, but a hundred percent backed by my own personal experience.”

Run More with These 5 Tips

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In a TikTok video, Britany unveiled “five realistic tips to make it a little easier” to go running. “Number one, sometimes run without your watch. Get used to how your body feels without always worrying about pace. Number two, a quick warmup is a game changer before longer runs, especially if you run in the morning. Number three, if you're a beginner, take breaks. Alternate walking and running for one minute intervals, increasing the length of the run interval every couple of weeks. Number four, get the right shoes. I get new shoes every 400 miles or so, and my knees thank me every time. And number five, realize every step forward, whether it be for five minutes or for an hour, is a step forward in your goals.”

Related: #1 Best Breakfast for Proteins According to Dietitian Who Lost 100 Pounds

How to Do a Push Up If You Struggle

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Britany admits that she has “struggled with pushups for years” and offers a tip on how to make them easier. “The idea of doing pushups on your toes was just never approachable for you. You need to elevate your hands on a chair. The higher your hands are relative to your feet, the easier it's going to be and it's going to be so helpful,” she says.

💪🔥Body Booster: Try and do at least a 10-minute workout every day for a week and then ask yourself how you feel. You will likely be motivated to do longer workouts the next week. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Nutrition & Diet

What She Ate to Lose 42 Pounds

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Woman Shows How to Meal Prep a Week of High-Protein Dishes in Just 1 Hour
Copyright Liezl Jayne Strydom/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMay 01, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
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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.

Struggling to lose weight while still enjoying your meals is a challenge most of us know all too well. For YouTube sensationLiezl Jayne Strydom, the breakthrough came not from extreme restrictions but from protein-rich meals that kept her satisfied throughout the day. With over 1.2 million subscribers following her journey, Liezl has documented exactly how she lost 42 pounds by creating simple, delicious recipes that deliver an impressive 112 grams of protein daily while keeping calories in check. Her dairy-free, gluten-free approach focuses on foods that actually taste good while supporting weight loss goals. Discover the exact meals from Liezl's personal food journals that transformed her body and could do the same for you.

Journals That Changed Everything

Liezl recently discovered her old food journals from her weight loss journey and was reminded of how challenging it was to find low-calorie meals that were still balanced, healthy, and satisfying. "I used to write down all the recipes and meals that I loved the most that really helped me during this time," Liezl shares in her recent post. These journals became her blueprint for success, documenting what actually worked for her 42-pound weight loss. She's now sharing these proven recipes that helped her transformation.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Customizable Meal Plan for Your Goals

This meal plan is incredibly versatile, designed to fit your specific needs. "I've made this really customizable for you guys. You can customize this to get anywhere from 1200 to 1800 calories per day," Liezl explains. The plan delivers an impressive 112 grams of protein while keeping calories manageable. Everything is already gluten-free and dairy-free, with options to make recipes vegan. Liezl's excitement about sharing these recipes comes from their effectiveness in her own journey.

Breakfast: Spinach and Feta Frittata

Start your day with this protein-packed frittata that's simple to prepare. "This is a very very easy one. That's so good, so good," Liezl exclaims about this breakfast option. Begin with two eggs (or vegan egg replacer), mix in about 40 grams of feta (dairy-free or regular), add salt and pepper, then fold in wilted spinach. The quick-cooking dish pairs perfectly with toast or fruit, giving you flexibility based on your preferences. This balanced breakfast provides essential protein to start your day right.

Morning Pick-Me-Up: Protein Mocha

This protein mocha combines the best of all worlds - coffee, chocolate, and protein. "It's high protein, it's low calorie, it's coffee and it's chocolate. I mean, I don't know what more you could ask for from a morning coffee," Liezl enthuses. Simply heat a cup of soy milk (or any milk of choice), then mix half a scoop of vanilla protein powder with a teaspoon each of instant coffee and cocoa powder. Add a little boiled water to create a thick chocolate sauce, then stir in the warm milk for a satisfying, energizing beverage.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Lunch: Black Bean and Tahini Sandwich 2.0

This plant-based sandwich delivers impressive protein without meat. "It's one of my favorite sandwiches," Liezl says about this updated classic from her journals. Mash half a cup of rinsed black beans, then mix with one tablespoon of tahini, half tablespoon each of Dijon mustard, sweetener (like maple syrup), and lime juice, plus salt and pepper. Layer on toasted bread with baby spinach, tomato slices, dill pickle, and a touch of onion. The combination creates a satisfying sandwich with complex flavors that work perfectly together.

Afternoon Snack: Yogurt and Tahini Veggie Dip

Transform ordinary vegetables into a delicious snack with this simple dip. "I love a good dip with some vegetables," Liezl shares, explaining how this makes healthy eating more enjoyable. Combine a quarter cup of plain yogurt (dairy-free or regular) with a tablespoon of tahini, teaspoon of olive oil, one or two teaspoons of lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional garlic or herbs. Serve with cucumber slices, baby carrots, or any vegetables you prefer. This protein-rich dip makes reaching for healthy snacks much more appealing.

Dinner: Tangy Tomato Chicken with Crispy Potato Wedges

This flavorful dinner was inspired by Liezl's favorite restaurant meal. "I've been craving crispy potato wedges," Liezl admits while preparing this satisfying dinner. Start by cutting potatoes into wedges, coating with oil, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt and pepper, then bake at 425°F for 40-60 minutes. For the sauce, combine tomato paste, oil, sweetener, lemon juice, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano, chili flakes, optional cayenne, salt and pepper. Coat chicken breast (or tofu for vegan option) in the sauce and bake alongside green beans or other vegetables.

Sweet Treat: Banana Oat Chocolate Chip Cookies

These simple cookies satisfy sweet cravings without derailing your progress. "That is how simple this is," Liezl explains about her incredibly easy cookie recipe. Mash two bananas, then mix with about two-thirds cup of rolled oats, a small handful of almonds, two tablespoons of dark chocolate chips, and a teaspoon of cinnamon. Form into cookies using about a tablespoon of mixture per cookie, then bake at 360°F for about 15 minutes. Five cookies come in at only 200 calories, making them a perfect guilt-free treat.

Meal Prep for Success

Planning ahead is key to staying on track with your nutrition goals. "I've got my meal prepped for tomorrow night. I won't be cooking tomorrow," Liezl says, highlighting the convenience of preparing extra portions. When making dinner, she prepares additional servings for future meals, storing them in containers for easy reheating. The potato wedges reheat well in an air fryer or oven, maintaining their crispiness. This approach saves time and helps avoid unhealthy last-minute food choices.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Customizing Calories to Fit Your Needs

The meal plan's structure makes it easy to adjust calories based on your goals. "For 1,200 calories per day, you can have the breakfast, the lunch and the dinner, and then just leave out the snacks," Liezl explains. For 1,400 calories, add one snack (either the veggie dip or cookies). For 1,600 calories, include both snacks. And for 1,800 calories, double up on one of the snacks. The mocha adds about 100 calories and can be included with any of these options. This flexible approach allows you to tailor your intake without obsessing over exact numbers.

Mix and Match for Variety

Don't limit yourself to just these recipes - combine them with other meals from Liezl's series. "I've made three of these meal plans now based off of my weight loss journals," Liezl shares, encouraging viewers to explore all options. All main meals across her three videos are approximately 400 calories each, while snacks are roughly 200 calories. This consistent structure allows you to easily interchange meals and snacks between different meal plans, creating endless combinations that keep healthy eating interesting and sustainable.

The Key to Sustainable Weight Loss

Liezl's approach focuses on finding meals you genuinely enjoy rather than forcing yourself to eat foods you dislike. "Find some meals that you're excited about," Liezl encourages, highlighting the importance of enjoying what you eat. Her enthusiasm for the food she prepares demonstrates that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring or restrictive. By finding nutritious options that you look forward to eating, you're more likely to stick with your healthy habits long-term, making sustainable weight loss possible. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

How to Trigger the Ozempic Effect Without Medication

The Dr. Ashley Lucas Show
Copyright The Dr. Ashley Show/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMay 01, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓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.

The buzz around GLP-1 medications like Ozempic is everywhere, but what if you could get similar benefits naturally? Dr. Ashley Lucas, PhD, RD, is a Registered Dietitian and host of The Dr. Ashley Show. As a former professional ballet dancer with a PhD in Sports Nutrition and Chronic Disease, she specializes in science-backed weight loss strategies. Through her company, PhD Weight Loss and Nutrition, Dr. Ashley has helped over 10,000 people collectively lose more than 466,000 pounds nationwide. Discover how to turn on your body's own GLP-1 production with this full-day eating plan that will help curb cravings and burn fat, without the medication side effects.

Your Body Already Makes This Power Hormone

Your body naturally produces GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) in your gut, and it plays a crucial role in weight management. "GLP-1 tells your brain that you're full, slows digestion, stabilizes blood sugar, and helps to curb cravings," Dr. Ashley explains in her post. While medications simply mimic this action, specific foods and lifestyle habits can trigger your natural GLP-1 production without unwanted side effects. This natural approach works with your biology rather than overriding it.

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

Why Natural Is Better Than Medication

Montreal, CA - 25 November 2023: Hand holding Ozempic semaglutide injection pen. Ozempic is a medication for obesity​What Are GLP-1 Medications?Shutterstock

Relying on GLP-1 medications can override your body's natural feedback loops. "Whether you're taking the full dose or microdosing for the long term, it can lead to muscle loss, gut sluggishness, and nutrient deficiency over time," Dr. Ashley warns. Studies show approximately 70% of people regain weight after stopping these medications because their bodies never learned to regulate themselves. Natural GLP-1 production supports healthy digestion, lean muscle retention, and long-term metabolic flexibility.

The Four Keys To Natural GLP-1 Production

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Boosting your natural GLP-1 levels requires a strategic approach to eating. "Protein stimulates GLP-1 the most, so you want to make sure you're consuming adequate protein throughout the day," says Dr. Ashley. Fiber plays a critical role too, as it slows digestion and enhances GLP-1 release. Since GLP-1 is secreted in the gut, fermented foods support the healthy gut microbiome necessary for optimal signaling. Finally, consuming healthy fats slows glucose absorption and keeps you full longer.

Start Your Day Right With A Savory Breakfast

Spinach Scramble: Fluffy scrambled eggs with vibrant spinach, perfectly cooked to showcase the light, nutritious, and fresh qualities of this simple yet satisfying dish.​Breakfast Bowls: Egg & Avocado Scramble BowlShutterstock

Your first meal sets the tone for your entire day's metabolic response. "You want to make sure breakfast is savory with a protein and fiber combination," recommends Dr. Ashley. An ideal morning meal might include two to three eggs scrambled with spinach or bell peppers, providing both protein and fiber. Add a side of avocado for healthy fats and more fiber, plus some fermented sauerkraut or salsa to support gut health. Coffee with a splash of heavy cream (Dr. Ashley's "favorite food") and allulose or monk fruit sweetener completes this GLP-1-boosting breakfast.

RELATED: 5 Things to Know Before Taking a GLP-1 Drug, According to a Nurse Who Takes It

Power Through Lunch With Slow-Digesting Foods

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For your midday meal, focus on combinations that maximize satiety and GLP-1 production. "This would not be a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with chips, a cookie, and an apple—that's the worst lunch for triggering your own GLP-1 secretion," Dr. Ashley cautions. Instead, opt for grilled chicken or salmon over mixed greens with roasted vegetables and pumpkin seeds. Dress with extra virgin olive oil and apple cider vinegar, which helps control blood sugar. Adding fermented pickles or kimchi provides additional gut support to enhance GLP-1 production.

Don't Skip Your Afternoon Snack

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A strategic afternoon snack prevents evening overeating and supports steady GLP-1 production. "If you're not used to eating this snack and you've been struggling with your weight, you might want to incorporate it," suggests Dr. Ashley. Good options include full-fat or low-fat plain Greek yogurt with chia seeds (or zen basil seeds, which Dr. Ashley prefers for their lower lectin content) and a few berries. Alternatively, bone broth with added collagen and a small amount of butter or coconut oil provides protein and healthy fats that sustain fullness until dinner.

End The Day With A Protein-Forward Dinner

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Your evening meal should stabilize blood sugar overnight while supporting hormone repair. "I would suggest a grass-fed beef or turkey bowl with sauteed zucchini, green beans, onions, mushrooms—whatever non-starchy vegetables you like," Dr. Ashley recommends. Top with fermented salsa or goat cheese and serve over cauliflower rice rather than traditional grains. Add a side salad with fermented beets or a kefir-based dressing to maximize gut health benefits and GLP-1 production while you sleep.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Evening Options That Won't Derail Progress

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If you're genuinely hungry after dinner, several options can satisfy without disrupting your GLP-1 production. "Chamomile or peppermint tea with cinnamon is great, as cinnamon improves insulin sensitivity and digestion," says Dr. Ashley. For more substantial evening hunger, she suggests bone broth or hard-boiled eggs with salt. These options provide satiety without the blood sugar spikes that would counteract the GLP-1-boosting effects of your carefully planned day.

Train Your Body For Long-Term Success

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The true benefit of naturally boosting GLP-1 is establishing sustainable metabolic health. "When you stimulate GLP-1 naturally through food, the right movement, gut health, and blood sugar stability, you're actually retraining your system," Dr. Ashley emphasizes. This approach builds "metabolic muscle" to control appetite and burn fat without external intervention. Unlike medication dependence, naturally optimizing your GLP-1 production empowers your body to maintain weight loss long-term.

Avoid Common Side Effects Of GLP-1 Medications

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GLP-1 medications often come with unwanted side effects that natural methods avoid. "You can avoid the common side effects like nausea, fatigue, slow digestion, constipation, and especially muscle loss, which we're seeing more and more with long-term medication use," Dr. Ashley points out. By choosing the natural approach, you're working with your body's existing systems rather than overriding them, leading to better overall health outcomes while still achieving weight management goals.

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

Take Action Today For Real Results

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Implementing these strategies requires commitment but delivers lasting benefits. "You've got to step up to make the change. Lead with your heart, train your mind, and do not negotiate with your body," Dr. Ashley encourages. Start by incorporating one meal suggestion today, then gradually build toward the full day plan. Focus on protein-fiber combinations, include fermented foods at each meal, and prioritize blood sugar stability. Your body's natural GLP-1 production will respond, creating sustainable appetite control without medication dependence. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

He Lost 220 Pounds and Kept It Off by Eating These 4 Meals on Repeat

Stanley Bronstein stanleyfbronstein
Copyright stanleyfbronstein/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 01, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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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.

Are you trying to lose weight? According to many experts, consistency with your diet is key. Stanley Bronstein is an author and weight loss expert who lost 220 pounds. The self-proclaimed “Been There, Done That, Weight-Loss Expert, who is launching the Million Pound Weight Loss Challenge on June 1, 2025, recently sat down with Body Network and revealed the four meals he eats on repeat to maintain his weight loss.

Breakfast Yogurt Bowl

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Bronstein starts his day with a healthy yogurt bowl, made with non-dairy plain yogurt, hemp seeds, flax seeds, sesame seeds, and hemp hearts “mixed in to thicken it up even more,” he says. “Then I top it with a mix of blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and bananas. I use frozen fruit, as it’s usually less expensive and it lasts longer than fresh fruit.” He also opts to make homemade soy yogurt, “but you can use other plant-based yogurts you can find at the grocery store,” he says. “The main thing is to make sure there are no added sugars in the yogurt. Read the label carefully. If you don’t want to use non-dairy yogurt, that’s fine too, but I believe that non-dairy is better in the long run.”

Salad

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Next up, a salad. “I make a salad that has a base of spinach and arugula. You can use other ingredients, such as kale and even just iceberg lettuce or a salad mix. I prefer spinach and arugula as they have more nutrients than plain old iceberg or romaine lettuce,” he explains. “You can top it with fresh tomatoes, sugar snap peas, various fruits (apples and such), and sprinkle a few unsalted raw nuts on top (but not too many).” For dressing, he makes his own. “I take a can of no-sugar-added diced tomatoes and throw them in my blender. I sprinkled in all kinds of spices like basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, etc. Then I put in just a touch of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar to make it a little tart. Mix it up, and you have a healthy, low-calorie, no-salt, no-oil, no-sugar-added salad dressing that tastes great.”

Smoothies

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Smoothies are also part of his daily menu. “I throw in 2 handfuls of some type of fruit (usually blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries, or simply bananas). Then I throw in 2 scoops of hemp protein powder. Out of all the plant-based protein powders, I prefer hemp, and it has no added sodium (soy powder usually does). Then I fill up the smoothie container with unsweetened soy milk (it has no added sugar). Blend it up for 45 seconds, and it tastes fantastic,” he explains.

Bean Soup

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The last item he eats on repeat? Bean soup. “I go to the store and buy a bag of 15-bean soup mix. I then throw the beans (WITHOUT THE FLAVOR PACKET IT COMES WITH) into my pressure cooker, along with a can of no-salt-added diced tomatoes and another can of water. You can add in any other seasonings you want, but try to leave out the salt. Cook it for about 30 minutes and you have bean soup. You can vary the thickness of the soup by adding more or less water,” he says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

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