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6 Easy Ways to Lose 10 Pounds By Summer

These expert tips will help you lose weight and keep it off.

Happy fitness success woman winner. Asian girl cheering arms up of joy on summer beach.
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Are you looking to lose 10 pounds fast? Gillian Ferguson of The Macro Method is a women’s nutrition coach and social media influencer “Helping you ditch diets & transform your body through macros, movement & mindset,” she maintains on her page. In a new post, she reveals 6 easy ways to lose 10 pounds by summer. “If you’re wanting to lose some weight for summer (& beyond!), here’s what to do,” she writes in the post. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva Tara Collingwood, also weighs in.


She starts out by prefacing that quick fixes won’t work. “There is no magic pill, overnight fix, 6 day challenge that is going to get you where you want to be. So only keep reading if you’re ready to do the damn thing,” she says.

1. Prioritize Protein

Profile of a hiker eating cereal bar in a valley in the mountainShutterstock

Her first recommendation is to prioritize protein. “30-35g per meal and at least 10-15g per snack,” she suggests.

“Protein keeps you full, and it burns more calories digesting it than carbs and fat,” explains Body Network’s Resident RDN, Tara Collingwood, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies. “It is also really important to assist in maintaining muscle mass as you’re trying to lose weight.”

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

2. Amp Up Fiber Intake

High,Fiber,Foods.,Healthy,Balanced,Dieting,Concept.,Top,ViewShutterstock

Second, she recommends amping up fiber intake. “Aim for 25g of fiber daily. I’ve been calling this the 4th macro - it’s that important,” says Ferguson.

“Fiber is literally indigestible plant matter, but your body tries to digest it while in your stomach and intestines, which keeps your body busy and feeling full while it’s doing this,” explains Collingwood about how fiber works. “Fiber also helps you poop and is prebiotic, which means the good bacteria in your gut feed on it, which keeps them healthy and happy.”

3. Walk More

Man using daily activity tracking app on mobile phone showing 10 000 steps daily goal achievementShutterstock

Next, Ferguson recommends walking more. “Fire up your metabolism & ⬆️ your NEAT by making your step count a non-negotiable! 8,500-10,000 steps daily,” she says.

“Walking even for a few minutes several times a day can boost metabolism instead of sitting at a desk all day long,” agrees Collingwood. “The more steps you take the more calories you burn. Walking is easy on the joints and is very simple to do!”

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

4. Lift Weights

Muscular build sportsman taking weights from a rack in a gym. Focus is on hand. Close up.Shutterstock

Next, Ferguson recommends weight lifting. “4 x week strength training sessions - even 30 mins each - to build muscle,” she writes. “The more muscle we have on our bodies, the more calories we burn even at rest. Win-win.”

“As stated, the more muscle we have, the more calories we burn. Muscle keeps your metabolism higher every minute of the day, even while you are sleeping!” agrees Collingwood. “Muscle also supports your joints, helping to prevent injuries and falls and keeping you mobile and out of the hospital.”

5. Sleep

Pleasant young woman laying in bed and putting eye mask on before going to sleepShutterstock

Next, she suggests getting more sleep. “We need rest and recovery just as much as we need steps & weights. Life is just harder when you’re tired,” Ferguson says.

“Sleep helps to control important hormones that control appetite and fullness as well as reducing stress hormones and repairing the body from exercise to prevent injury,” explains Collingwood. “It also improves energy levels and mood.”

RELATED: 15 Surprising Foods That You Can Eat to Lose Weight

Drink More Water and “Cool It On the Booze”

Glass,Of,Iced,Water,At,RestaurantShutterstock

Hydration is also key, says Ferguson. This isn’t just drinking more water but also cutting out alcohol. “And while you’re at it, cool it on the booze, sis,” she recommends

Collingwood agrees. “Thirst can sometimes feel like hunger, but staying hydrated also helps with every single body process from digestion to circulation to energy,” she says.

“Alcohol is just empty calories that don’t contribute any nutritional value and can, in fact, be detrimental to health for many reasons, including increased cancer risk,” says Collingwood. “ It also decreases inhibitions, and people tend to eat more calories when they are drinking alcohol.”

💪🔥Body Booster: “There’s no winging it when it comes to fat loss. You need a plan. Things like pre-planning your meals, scheduling your walks + workouts, and figuring out how to get to bed on time … all take some thought + strategy. But as you’re building these habits that seem hard at first, soon they’ll be second nature, and the return is 100x 🧨 because you’re setting yourself up for LIFE,” says Ferguson.

More For You

Happy fitness success woman winner. Asian girl cheering arms up of joy on summer beach.
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Are you looking to lose 10 pounds fast? Gillian Ferguson of The Macro Method is a women’s nutrition coach and social media influencer “Helping you ditch diets & transform your body through macros, movement & mindset,” she maintains on her page. In a new post, she reveals 6 easy ways to lose 10 pounds by summer. “If you’re wanting to lose some weight for summer (& beyond!), here’s what to do,” she writes in the post. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva Tara Collingwood, also weighs in.


She starts out by prefacing that quick fixes won’t work. “There is no magic pill, overnight fix, 6 day challenge that is going to get you where you want to be. So only keep reading if you’re ready to do the damn thing,” she says.

1. Prioritize Protein

Profile of a hiker eating cereal bar in a valley in the mountainShutterstock

Her first recommendation is to prioritize protein. “30-35g per meal and at least 10-15g per snack,” she suggests.

“Protein keeps you full, and it burns more calories digesting it than carbs and fat,” explains Body Network’s Resident RDN, Tara Collingwood, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies. “It is also really important to assist in maintaining muscle mass as you’re trying to lose weight.”

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

2. Amp Up Fiber Intake

High,Fiber,Foods.,Healthy,Balanced,Dieting,Concept.,Top,ViewShutterstock

Second, she recommends amping up fiber intake. “Aim for 25g of fiber daily. I’ve been calling this the 4th macro - it’s that important,” says Ferguson.

“Fiber is literally indigestible plant matter, but your body tries to digest it while in your stomach and intestines, which keeps your body busy and feeling full while it’s doing this,” explains Collingwood about how fiber works. “Fiber also helps you poop and is prebiotic, which means the good bacteria in your gut feed on it, which keeps them healthy and happy.”

3. Walk More

Man using daily activity tracking app on mobile phone showing 10 000 steps daily goal achievementShutterstock

Next, Ferguson recommends walking more. “Fire up your metabolism & ⬆️ your NEAT by making your step count a non-negotiable! 8,500-10,000 steps daily,” she says.

“Walking even for a few minutes several times a day can boost metabolism instead of sitting at a desk all day long,” agrees Collingwood. “The more steps you take the more calories you burn. Walking is easy on the joints and is very simple to do!”

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

4. Lift Weights

Muscular build sportsman taking weights from a rack in a gym. Focus is on hand. Close up.Shutterstock

Next, Ferguson recommends weight lifting. “4 x week strength training sessions - even 30 mins each - to build muscle,” she writes. “The more muscle we have on our bodies, the more calories we burn even at rest. Win-win.”

“As stated, the more muscle we have, the more calories we burn. Muscle keeps your metabolism higher every minute of the day, even while you are sleeping!” agrees Collingwood. “Muscle also supports your joints, helping to prevent injuries and falls and keeping you mobile and out of the hospital.”

5. Sleep

Pleasant young woman laying in bed and putting eye mask on before going to sleepShutterstock

Next, she suggests getting more sleep. “We need rest and recovery just as much as we need steps & weights. Life is just harder when you’re tired,” Ferguson says.

“Sleep helps to control important hormones that control appetite and fullness as well as reducing stress hormones and repairing the body from exercise to prevent injury,” explains Collingwood. “It also improves energy levels and mood.”

RELATED: 15 Surprising Foods That You Can Eat to Lose Weight

Drink More Water and “Cool It On the Booze”

Glass,Of,Iced,Water,At,RestaurantShutterstock

Hydration is also key, says Ferguson. This isn’t just drinking more water but also cutting out alcohol. “And while you’re at it, cool it on the booze, sis,” she recommends

Collingwood agrees. “Thirst can sometimes feel like hunger, but staying hydrated also helps with every single body process from digestion to circulation to energy,” she says.

“Alcohol is just empty calories that don’t contribute any nutritional value and can, in fact, be detrimental to health for many reasons, including increased cancer risk,” says Collingwood. “ It also decreases inhibitions, and people tend to eat more calories when they are drinking alcohol.”

💪🔥Body Booster: “There’s no winging it when it comes to fat loss. You need a plan. Things like pre-planning your meals, scheduling your walks + workouts, and figuring out how to get to bed on time … all take some thought + strategy. But as you’re building these habits that seem hard at first, soon they’ll be second nature, and the return is 100x 🧨 because you’re setting yourself up for LIFE,” says Ferguson.

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 25 pounds in 10 weeks and get in the best shape by springtime? One expert claims that it is doable. Ruth Soukup is a midlife health and mindset coach who lost almost 50 pounds. She regularly shares her tips and tricks with hundreds of thousands of Instagram followers. In a new post, she reveals how to lose 2.5 pounds per week realistically and sustainably. "If I wanted to spend the next 10 weeks focused on my health so that I could lose 25 pounds by spring break, this is exactly what I would do," she writes in the Instagram video.

You Don't Need to Be Super Restrictive to Lose Weight Over 40

"Let's be real, it's hard to find a perfect time to focus on your health. But if there was, this might be it. Especially when you realize that what actually works, especially for women over 40, isn't counting calories or making yourself crazy with some ultra-restrictive plan that requires you to cook separate meals," she writes in her post.

It's More About Balancing Hormones and Reversing Insulin Resistance

"It's balancing your hormones and reversing insulin resistance. And you can do it, no matter how busy your life is right now. In fact, here are the exact steps I would take if I wanted to lose 25 pounds before vacation season begins," she continues, listing her recommendations.

Cut Out Sugar and Processed Foods

She first tackles the diet topic. "Cut out sugar and processed foods," she suggests. "This is the most crucial step for reversing insulin resistance in order to balance your hormones," she writes. This includes packaged baked goods, chips, most packaged snacks, and desserts.

Eat More Healthy Fat

Not all fat will hinder your weight loss, says Ruth. "Eat more healthy fat. It's also key to rebalancing your hormones and kickstarting your metabolism," she writes.

Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Protein is the building block of muscle growth and fat burning. "Load up on protein," she recommends. "Shoot for at least 25-35 grams of protein at every meal."

RELATED: Coach Unveils 40-30-20 Method for Fat Burning and Muscle Building

Hydrate

Make sure to drink enough water and keep yourself hydrated. "Hydrate with electrolytes," she suggests. "This will keep you feeling good as your body makes big changes."

Avoid Alcohol

Don't drink your calories – at least for a little while. "Avoid alcohol. Only for the first six weeks!" she says. Not only is alcohol generally high in calories, but when you drink, you are more likely to eat unhealthy food and exercise less.

Track Your Macros

Be accountable when it comes to your diet. "Track your macros," says Ruth. "Don't worry about calories, but DO worry about getting the right balance of macronutrients."

RELATED: This Mobility Coach Fixed Her Upper Back Pain With 3 Simple Moves (It Only Takes 5 Minutes)

And don't forget to get your steps in. "Get OUTSIDE for a quick walk every day! It will not only help reverse insulin resistance but also help lower your cortisol!" she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Fact-Checked

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.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

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

Losing weight can seem overwhelming, but it shouldn’t be. In fact, you can quickly lose ten pounds before Memorial Day weekend, according to one health expert. Gen Cohen, CNC, recently shared a motivating video via Instagram with her followers, offering some easy ways you can lose weight without going to extremes. “How to feel your best by summer! Here’s how I lost 10lbs in the first two months of my health journey,” she writes in the caption of the Instagram post. The Body Network also consulted The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on the weight loss suggestions that could get you feeling like the healthiest version of yourself before swimsuit season.


Focus on Losing Body Fat, Not Water Weight

“What I would do if I was trying to lose 10 pounds in the next two months,” she says in the video. “And I'm not talking about 10 pounds of water weight that you just gained back the next day. I'm talking about 10 pounds of body fat.” She starts by pointing out things a person should avoid, even if they could work in the short term.

Don’t Starve Yourself

Gen_Cohen2gensgym/Instagram

“What I would not do is starve myself,” she says. “That is the quickest way to lead to fat gain after weight loss.” Collingwood agrees. “Starving and fasting can produce fast weight loss, but it also stresses the body and causes the metabolism to shut down, which in turn can cause rebound weight gain,” she says.

Related: 8 Ways to Eat Your Way to 6-Pack

Don’t Do "Hours of Cardio” Daily

Blonde young woman give up workout in gym, fail.Shutterstock/sakkmesterke

“What I also wouldn't do is ... hours of cardio every single day,” she continues. “Exercise is excellent, but too much can also stress the body and cause injury, not to mention burnout,” Collingwood adds.

Eat in a “Modest Caloric Deficit”

Calorie counting on a paper with calculator. Diet and weight control conceptShutterstock

She then reveals her plan. “What I would do is eat in a modest caloric deficit, which, if you're a woman watching this video, means you'll probably be eating an average of 1500 to 2000 calories per day in order to lose weight,” she maintains.

Download a Meal Planning App

New Delhi, India 4 September 2023:- My fitness pal app on iphone used to calculate caloriesShutterstock

“I would download an app like MyFitnessPal and pre-plan my meals the day before to make sure I was able to hit my calories and my protein goal while still enjoying my social life,” she continues. Collingwood loves the idea of the app. “Keep track of calories to increase awareness, but don’t obsess over it,” she elaborates. “Focus on getting target goals for macros and balancing with movement and exercise.”

Invest in a Big Water Bottle and Hydrate

Close-up of a large water bottle on a running track with woman's legs in backgroundShutterstock

She also suggests investing in a big water bottle. “I would drink 16 ounces of water before getting out of bed in the morning, which helps regulate your cortisol and stress levels throughout the day,” she says. “And I would also drink 16 ounces of water before each meal. This will help you feel full quicker while you're still learning proper portion control.” Water is always essential for overall health, and when embarking on a weight loss plan, “however, it will not really fill you up for very long because it is absorbed within minutes into the stomach and intestines,” Collingwood points out.

Lift Weights and Walks

Young woman walking on green asphalt road in forestShutterstock

“And finally, rather than subscribing to some crazy fitness routine, I'd commit to lifting weights three maximum four times per week and prioritize getting a 60-minute walk in per day,” she suggests. “You can go to the gym and do 12-3-30. You can take your dog for a walk. You can get a walking pad and put it under your desk. I don't care how just 60 minutes of walking.”

Collingwood agrees that walking is a great way to burn calories with low impact. “Lifting weights is key to maintaining muscle while you are losing weight,” she says.

Related: 15 Proven Ways to Sculpt Your Dream Body by An Expert Coach

Be Happy

Gen_Cohen3gensgym/Instagram

“I'd also visualize myself being the hottest, happiest version of me and remember that while my life isn't defined by the number on the scale, it's okay to want to take control of my health,” she concludes the video. In the caption, she added: “P.S. It’s okay to want to lose weight and improve your health...but please remember your life isn’t defined by the number on the scale.” Collingwood is on board with Gen’s overall approach. “Positive self-image and body image are wonderful. You don’t walk around with people knowing how much you weigh, but people do respond to your energy and attitude. If that is positive, you will be someone others will want to be around!” she says.

💪🔥Body Booster: Lift weights 3-4 times per week max. Prioritize getting a 60-minute daily walk for overall fitness. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Woman trying dress in looking in mirror cheerful and happy.
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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

Female going for a early morning run.Shutterstock

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

Low Section Of Woman Standing On Weight ScaleShutterstock

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

Soraya_project_s_lifestyle2project.s.lifestyle/TikTok

“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

Healthy diet plan for weight loss, daily ready meal menu. Woman using meal tracker app on phone while weighing lunch box cooked in advance on kitchen scale. Balanced portion with dish. Pre-cookingShutterstock

“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

Side view of two attractive sports women on running track. Girls on treadmillShutterstock

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

Walk 30 Minutes a Day

Woman walking cross country and trail in autumn forestShutterstock

“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

tara_collingwooddietdivatara/Instagram

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.

FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
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.

Losing weight and achieving your weight loss goals may seem daunting. However, dropping a few dress sizes can be as simple as making a few changes to your routine. Weight loss coach Sydney St-Aubin, Founder and Program Director of the Bounce N' Burn Rebounding program, who goes by the TikTok handle @sydneystaubin, boasts over 126,000 followers on the video sharing site, where she shares tips and secrets about her weight loss. In a recent video, she revealed that she lost a whopping 20 pounds in less than four months, simply by incorporating four easy changes into her lifestyle. “If I had to lose 19 pounds in the next four months, again, here's what I would do, which by the way, I do have to lose 19 pounds in the next four months again,” she starts explaining in the viral TikTok video. She did it "by making four effortless changes in my life," she told us here at Body Network. "I did things one step at a time so that I wouldn't get too overwhelmed." Here's exactly what she did.


1. Drink Three Liters of Water Per Day

Glass,Tap,Water,Faucet,Kitchen,drinkShutterstock

Her first suggestion is to drink three liters of water every day. “That's what your body needs. One and a half of these at the minimum, okay? If you're exercising, drink two at the minimum,” she says, pointing to her water bottle. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids. What health benefits can you reap by hydration? According to the Mayo Clinic water helps get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues. "There are so many benefits to drinking the amount of water that your body needs and making this small adjustment to be more intentional with your water, can tremendously support your weight-loss journey," St-Aubin tells Body Network.

Related: I'm a Personal Trainer With a Flat Belly and Here's How to Get Yours

2. Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Ham,Egg,Omelette,Eggs,Fresh,Herbs,Salad,breakfastShutterstock

While there is no “need to track your food,” Sydney strongly suggests amping up your protein intake. “No counting, no weighing, no measuring. I'm learning that right now. You don't even need to do that. But something that's helped me so, so much in the past four months is just making every single meal protein oriented, just focus on protein,” she says. For breakfast, she suggests an omelet with “eggs for my protein with some added meat in there", and lunch, “some tuna concoction or salad with chicken,” and for dinner, salmon. “When you're prioritizing protein, you're seriously not going to be as hungry. You're going to be saying goodbye to all the snacks. You're not going to feel hungry late at night. Your body can then burn fat while you're sleeping. Trust me, it's so important.” When we reached out to her, she reiterated this fact: "I started to make every meal protein-oriented. I you make protein the focus in each of your meals, you'll stay full for longer periods of time and there won't be a need for as many snacks throughout the day. When I felt snackish, I started grabbing things that were higher in protein rather than carbs, so that they would actually tide me over until the next meal."

3. Stay in a Caloric Deficit

Counting,Calories,Table,calculator,health,weight,eggsShutterstock

While “you don't even need to count or weigh if you don't want to,” you should “choose wisely about what you're putting on your plate and what your portions look like,” she says. “At the end of the day, we're staying in a caloric deficit.”

4. Get Your Steps In

Young adult woman walking up the stairs with sun sport background.Shutterstock/siam.pukkato

Not only should you “get your steps in,” says Sydney, but “increase your steps every single day,” she suggests. “Try to get a little bit better.” How many steps should you strive for? A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. 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. "I started parking further away from the places I needed to go. This way, I was getting in more steps and therefore burning more calories without putting too much pressure on myself to do any specific type of exercise," she told us.

Related: 6 Body Changes Caused by Drinking Soda, According to a Diet Expert

5. Final Suggestion: Don’t Overcomplicate Weight Loss

Woman,,Balance,Weight,Scale,health,scalesShutterstock

“You don't got to overcomplicate the whole thing. You don't need to feel like you're on this insane diet. You don't need to cut out your favorite foods. Eat everything in moderation. Let me help you because I've finally figured it out. Let's do it,” Sydney says at the end of the video. Or as she told us: "I started to incorporate exercise by creating a set schedule and routine for myself. I knew that in order to see results, I needed to be consistent but in order to be consistent, I needed to enjoy the movement. I don't believe in having to lift weights, run marathons or go to the gym in order to lose weight. I believe that any movement is a good one because the results come from consistency. I love mini trampoline fitness workouts, using a Rebounder, because they're fun and they can be done from the comfort of my own home. I love them so much that I teach my own classes online and have built an incredible community of ladies from all over the world. Don't over-complicate the weight-loss process. Do what you can every single day and the results will follow."

@sydneystaubin

19 lbs down since january and still going 👏🏻 here’s what i’ve been doing and what i plan to continue to do to reach my goal by hopefully september 🤍 #weightloss #caloricdeficit #athomeworkouts #weightlosstransformation #weightlossprogram

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to lose weight, amp up your protein intake. Proteins like lean meats, eggs, and legumes, fill you up while fueling your workouts, making you less likely to snack on unhealthy food.

Dr Jared Beckstrand, PT, DPT Tone and Tighten
Copyright Tone and Tighten/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.

Fact-Checked

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.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

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

"If you are tight, if you're stiff, if your body is not very flexible and you'd like to improve your mobility, you're in the right place," says Dr. Jared Beckstrand, PT, DPT. No extreme poses or complicated movements—just simple, effective stretches designed specifically for people who struggle with flexibility.

Dr. Beckstrand is a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in making mobility accessible to everyone. Through his practical approach to stretching, he's developed this 8-minute routine that addresses all major muscles and joints without requiring any equipment. His emphasis is on comfort over forcing difficult positions: "It's important that you should keep your stretching very comfortable. I want you to push to the point where it starts to get painful, but I don't want you to push into pain."

Start With Lumbar Rotation For Lower Back Relief

Attractive young woman working out indoors, doing yoga exercise on wooden floor, lying in Reclining Spinal Twist, Jathara Parivartanasana, resting after practice, full length, top view

Shutterstock

Begin by lying on your back, as Jared instructs in his post: "Lay on your back with your right knee bent. With your left hand, grab the outside of your right knee and pull that over to your left side until you get a good comfortable stretch through your lower back and through your hip." Hold for 30 seconds, then repeat on the opposite side.

Simple Hamstring Stretch For Tight Legs

Single athletic woman with blond hair in blue outfit on back stretching hamstring muscles for leg in mid air

Shutterstock

"Left leg goes straight, both hands cup right behind the right knee, and then straighten that knee out until you get a good stretch right up here in the hamstring," Jared demonstrates. This straightforward movement targets one of the most commonly tight areas in the body.

Easy Hip Opener With Piriformis Stretch

Yoga stretch exercise fit Asian woman stretching lower back for spine health on city outdoor fitness class in park. Seated spinal twist.

Shutterstock

For this hip-focused movement, Jared explains: "Cross your right leg over your left knee, grab your left knee and pull it up towards your chest until you get a good stretch in that right hip." Switch sides after 30 seconds for balanced flexibility.

Hip Flexor and Hamstring Double Stretch

Young woman doing front lunges or squat exercise at home

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"Put your right knee on the ground. Take a big lunge step with your left foot, scoot your weight forward onto that left foot," Jared guides. This combination stretch targets both your hip flexors and hamstrings efficiently, making it perfect for people with limited time.

Seated Rotation For Upper Back Mobility

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Moving up the spine, Jared demonstrates: "I'm going to cross my left leg over my right, my right elbow comes to the outside of my left knee just until I get a good stretch." He notes that this stretch often provides satisfying relief in the upper back region.

Child's Pose For Full Back Release

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"This is one of my favorites for the entire back," Jared shares. The position is simple: "Come onto all fours. Sit your bottom down onto your heels until we get just a good stretch all through the back, through the lats. Tuck your chin into your chest and just sink into that stretch."

Upper Back Extension For Better Posture

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This dynamic stretch targets your upper back and chest. "Place your fingertips to the back of your head, bring your elbows together and fold forward," Jared instructs. "Then we're going to open everything up, look up towards the ceiling, separate your elbows out, feel a good stretch through your chest."

Gentle Neck Stretch For Upper Body Relief

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Conclude with neck mobility: "Left ear over towards your left shoulder. With your left hand come up to the opposite side of your head and apply just a gentle over pressure till we get a good stretch through the right side of the neck," says Jared. Repeat on both sides.

As Jared emphasizes throughout this routine, the key to success is keeping each stretch comfortable and consistent. This no-equipment-needed sequence takes just eight minutes but addresses every major muscle group in your body. Practice regularly, respect your body's limits, and watch your flexibility improve over time. nd if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks.

​Lexi wellnessbylex
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If you suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome, weight loss can be tricky. However, it’s not impossible, according to one expert. Lexi Frumenti is a nutritionist and certified hormone health coach with a B.S. in nutrition. She also battles PCOS and claims to have cracked the code in terms of the right diet and exercise routine needed to lose weight. “Weight loss tips that helped me lose and keep off 40 pounds with PCOS! These are also killer tips to follow for those who don’t struggle with PCOS!” she writes in the post.

Restistance Movement

\u200bLexi wellnessbylex

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Her first tip is to exercise. “Resistance movement 4-5x a week,” she recommends. “Any type of movement where you are putting resistance on your muscles is perfect! This could be weights in a gym/at home, Pilates, CorePower yoga (my obsession), barre, etc.!”

3 High Protein Meals Per Day

\u200bLexi wellnessbylex

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Next up she recommends 3 high protein meals a day. “Making sure you’re getting AT LEAST 25-30g of protein into each of your meals is super important and will help with overall blood sugar which will THEN HELP with cravings + weight loss!” she writes.

Plus, 1 to 2 High Protein Snacks Per Day

\u200bLexi wellnessbylex

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She also suggests snacking. “1-2 high protein snacks a day: your snacks being protein based rather than carb based is so so important. These are the types of snacks that will ACTUALLY keep you full/do what you need them to do!” she explains.

10,000 Steps Per Day

\u200bLexi wellnessbylex

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Don’t forget to get your steps in, specifically “10k steps every single day,” she says, “yes, 7 days a week. This may seem like a lot but I promise with time and consistency, you can absolutely build up to this + it’ll be a breeze! For me this looks like walking for an hour and a half or so depending what speed I’m going at.”

Low Calorie/Low Sugar Alcoholic Beverages

\u200bLexi wellnessbylex

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If you are going to drink, do it healthily. “Low calorie/sugar alcoholic beverages,” she says. “I still enjoy alcohol and I’m not at a place in my life where I feel the need to cut it out yet. That being said, I keep it very very simple and stick to low calorie + no sugar added drinks. Vodka soda with extra lime is my go to! Ditch the vodka cran/Red Bulls and thank me later.”

Volume Eating

\u200bLexi wellnessbylex

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She strongly suggests volume eating. “Guys this is a game changer if your eyes tend to eat first!!! Sometimes when we look at our plates/it doesn’t look like enough food to us, we tend to over eat or go for seconds. And listen, nothing wrong with going for seconds but if your goal is to lose weight, you need to be in a calorie deficit. SO- adding in extra veggies + protein to your meals will be super helpful for this!” she says.

Favorite Foods in Moderation

\u200bLexi wellnessbylex

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Her last tip? “Enjoying my favorite foods in moderation,” she says. “I’m not giving up chocolate, a good burger, brunch with the girls, NO THANK YOUUU! Not realistic for me (& most people). If I know I’m going out to pizza with the girls, I will make sure the rest of my day consists of lots of protein + veg.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Nutrition coach Lora Higgins
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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 shape up before spring break? According to one expert, you can easily make it happen. Lora Higgins is a nutrition coach whose mission is to help women over 50 drop a dress size in 90 days. In a new Instagram post, she reveals her foolproof hack for shaping up fast – without starving yourself or slaving away at the gym. “Drop a dress size. The lazy girl method for tracking your food to lose 10 pounds by spring. It’s easy tracking that actually works,” she writes.

Focus on Protein

“Want to lose 10 lbs without obsessing over every single calorie? 🙅♀️ This lazy girl hack is perfect for you! Instead of tracking everything, let’s make it SIMPLE—just focus on protein,” she says.

Protein Is Crucial for Burning Fat and Building Muscle

She goes on to explain why the method works. “Why protein? It keeps you full, boosts your metabolism, & helps you burn fat while holding onto that precious muscle,” she writes.

How Much Protein Do You Need?

How much protein do you need? “A good rule of thumb is 0.8 - 1g of protein per pound of your ideal body weight. So, if your goal is to weigh 140 lbs, you should aim for around 120-140g of protein a day. Simple, right?” she writes.

Here Is How to Spread It Out

Next, she goes on to explain how to spread it out. For breakfast, she recommends aiming for 30g of protein, “think eggs & Greek yogurt,” she says. “Lunch: Another 30g (grilled chicken or a protein-packed salad)” she writes. A great protein-fueled snack at 20 grams is a protein shake or beef jerky. For dinner, “Finish with 40g (steak, fish, or turkey burger)” she suggests.

And, This Is Why You Should Spread It Out

Why should you spread protein out instead of eating it all in one meal? “By spreading your protein throughout the day, you’ll feel fuller longer, crush those cravings, & hit your goals without even trying!” she explains.

Here Is Her Lazy Girl Shopping List

She even includes a “Lazy girl shopping list,” because “we all need easy go-tos,” she says.

  • Pre-cooked grilled chicken strips 🐔
  • Greek yogurt cups 🥄
  • Cottage cheese 🧀
  • Protein shakes or powder 🍫
  • Hard-boiled eggs 🥚
  • Canned tuna or salmon 🐟
  • Turkey burgers 🍔
  • Beef jerky or turkey jerky 🥩

Pro Tips

She concludes with a pro tip. “Keeping these on hand makes it easy to grab & go without stressing about what to eat. Just focus on hitting your protein target & watch the weight start to melt off!: she writes. “No need to count every calorie, no fancy apps—just focus on protein & let the rest fall into place.”

What Science Says About Protein and 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. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.