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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.

12 At-Home Exercises to Firm Your Body Fast, According to Alex Rice 

All you need is a pair of dumbbells.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Alex_rice20
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Do you want to get a full-body workout in without leaving the house? Alex Rice is a certified personal trainer and fitness influencer who boasts over 1.1 million Instagram followers. She regularly shares workout sets that don’t require a gym membership or expensive exercise equipment. “I love a full body workout,” Rice writes in the caption of one of her posts. “It leaves you feeling accomplished and strong!!! Let’s go.” Here are 13 at-home exercises that will help to firm your upper body fast.


Dumbbell Squats

The first exercise she recommends? 4 sets of 10-12 dumbbell squats. “You can do any version of a dumbbell squat you like!” she says.

Kneeling Arnold Press

A serious and focused woman prepares to do a light set of arnold shoulder presses with vinyl plastic dumbbells at her home gym.Shutterstock

Next up, 4 sets / 10 (each) of single arm kneeling Arnold presses. To do the exercise, kneel on one knee. With the opposite arm, lift your weight up and down.

Deficit Reverse Lunge

Brunette female in good shape wearing white top and beige leggins doing lunges and holding blue dumbbells in hands, working out legs, looking straight ahead with serious expression.Shutterstock

The third exercise? 3 sets / 8 (each) of deficit reverse lunge. Stand with two feet together, holding your weight in one arm. With that same leg, lunge back. Repeat. After 8 reps, switch to the other leg and arm.

Push Up

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The next exercise is one of the most old school but effective: Push ups. Do 3 sets of 10 to 12. You can also modify and do incline push ups, she says.

Seesaw Bent Over Row

Attractive woman in 30s doing one arm dumbbell rows in modern bright fitness center. Toned image.Shutterstock

Rice recommends doing 3 sets / 10 (each) of seesaw bent over rows. Kneel over with knees slightly bent holding a dumbbell in each hand. Row arms up and down.

Explosive Squat Jumps

Young caucasian woman in sportswear doing plyometric exercises on pier. Fitness workout outdoorsShutterstock

The final exercise of this workout? 3 sets of explosive squat jumps. Holding a weight in each hand, squat down and then spring up. Repeat.

Kneeling Single Arm Shoulder Press

In another video, Rice shares her “dumbbell demolisher,” workout, asking: “did someone say they are looking for a dumbbell only workout??? I got you! Let’s train upper body!” The first exercise is a kneeling single arm shoulder press. Do 4 sets | 8-10 reps on each arm.

DB Close Grip Row

Women working on their triceps with dumbbells at the gymShutterstock

The second exercise is a dumbbell close grip row. In her demonstration she kneels over. Keeping weight close to her side she rows with both arms, completing 3 sets of 8-10 reps.

Hand Release Push Ups

Gorgeous brunette warming up and doing some push ups a the gymShutterstock

Rice does a modified version of the OG push up, which she calls a hand release push up. After each one she lifts her hands from the ground. She does 3 sets, 8-10 (each) reps. You can also do incline push ups- hands on a bench/box/wall as a modification.

Single Arm Row

Slim, bodybuilder girl, lifts heavy dumbbell standing in front of the mirror while training in the gym. Sports concept, fat burning and a healthy lifestyle.Shutterstock

The fourth exercise of the set is another row: The single arm row. She recommends 3 sets, 8-10 (each) reps.

Seated OH Tricep Extension

Fitness arm workout Asian girl training triceps muscles doing tricep overhead extension exercise outdoor in park banner. Happy athlete working out outside with pink dumbbells.Shutterstock

The fifth exercise she does are seated overhead tricep extensions. She sits on the bench and holds a single weight with both hands, dropping it behind her head and raising up. She does 3 sets, 10-12 reps.

Hammer Curls

A young and sexy asian woman does seated dumbbell hammer curls on a flat bench at the gym. Wearing a black crop top and bike shorts.Shutterstock

The final exercise in this circuit. Hammer curls. She recommends doing 3 sets of the simple but effective exercise.

More For You

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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

Do you want to do a full body workout with just six exercises? Grace Albin is a fitness expert and influencer who shares diet and exercise tips and tricks with her hundreds of thousands of followers. In a new post, she reveals some combo moves that work multiple muscles at once.”Six fun, #bodyweight combos for fat-burning and muscle-toning,” she captioned the post. Here are the exercises – as well as a few other of her go-to fitness and diet tips.


Here Is the Workout

Grace_Albin_fitstylegrace1fitstylegrace/Instagram

“Do each combo 10-20 times, then move to the next combo. Rest one minute at the end of the round. 2-4 rounds total,” Grace instructs.

  • jump squat into triple-pulse squat.
  • twist squat with knee lift.
  • triple-pulse lunge into kick.
  • cross cross squat.
  • reverse lunge into plank.
  • floor tap lunge into knee lift.

Do Pilates and Strength Training

A young woman in sportswear does Pilates on a reformer, lifting her leg up.Side view.Pilates, a pilates reformer class.Healthy Lifestyle Concept.High quality photoShutterstock

Grace encourages “a fusion of Pilates technique with traditional fitness,” she told Naluda. “So we use dumbbells and resistance bands and do squats and curls. But always with the underlying philosophy of posture strength, elegant movement, and muscle lengthening.”

Why is Pilates a good workout? According to the Mayo Clinic there are lots of benefits to the workout, as it “strengthens the body's inner core while increasing its flexibility resulting in improved overall health.”

It can also promote longer, leaner muscles, injury prevention, relief from stress and back pain, enhanced athletic performance, and heightened mind-body awareness. And, the Mayo Clinic explains that strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills

Stick to Workouts You Love

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What is the absolute best workout, according to Grace? One you will actually do. She recommends trying “a lot of different formats and you’ll find the one you love enough to stay motivated and keep going,” she told Naluda. “It might be something social and structured (and free) — like a running community training for a 10k that has each weekly jog planned out to the exact mile and meets at the same time every week. Or something flexible like joining a fancy studio that offers different modalities and allows you to toggle between yoga and boot camp. Keep experimenting and you’ll hit upon the fitness routine that matches your vibe and gets you coming back.”

RELATED:5 Exercises for Wrinkle Reduction

Snack on Protein and Fiber

Marinated,Grilled,Healthy,Chicken,Breasts,Cooked,On,A,Summer,BbqShutterstock

Grace snacks but keeps it healthy. “There are several bags of frozen edamame in my freezer at all times. It’s incredibly high in both protein and fiber. It’s quick and easy to fry or bake with a splash of olive oil, salt and pepper. You can also change the taste of it with any type of marinade or seasoning mix, so it never gets old,” she told Naluda.

Related: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Get Your Steps In

Grace_Albin2fitstylegrace/Instagram

Grace also recommends getting your steps in. How many should you aim for if you want to lose weight? According to a 2018 study published in the journal Obesity,walking 10,000 steps a day was linked to weight loss and weight management.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you don’t have a lot of time to work out, try doing combo moves to work multiple muscle groups at once.

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.

Alexia Clark is revealing an at-home workout to build up your backside! In a new social media post the fitness trainer and influencer, who boasts over 2.4 million Instagram followers, shows off her washboard abs in a crop top and leggings, while unveiling a simple workout that promises big results. “How often do you do bodyweight exercises?” she asks in the Instagram post. “If you’re not doing them you are missing out on a huge opportunity to build muscle and become stronger. You don’t need extremely heavy weight to put your muscles under the stress they need. My pro advice is to leave how to make bodyweight exercises burn.” Here is the workout – and everything else you need to know about her diet and fitness habits.


Here Are Her Top “Booty Bodyweight” Exercises

Alexia_Clark2alexia_clark/Instagram

Alexia reveals her “booty bodyweight” exercises. “Don't forget to listen to your body while doing the workout,” she reminds her followers in the comment section.

  1. Reverse frog kicks
  2. Cross step over
  3. Single leg glute thrust
  4. Bulgarian split Squat
  5. Straight leg glute kick

Clean Eating

Alexia_Clark3alexia_clark/Instagram

Alexia has a healthy approach to diet. “I just try to make sure I eat clean. I don't buy snack foods or junk food. I know that if I have those things around, I'm going to eat all of it, at once,” she told Meal Prep on Fleek. What is "eating clean" anyway? “I eat vegetables at every meal, no red meat (doesn't agree w/stomach), and try not to eat anything processed,” she said.

Related: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Warm Up and Cool Down

Alexia_Clark1alexia_clark/Instagram

“It’s important to warm up before a workout and cool down after,” Alexia explains on her website. “I suggest taking 5-10 minutes to warm up your body before your workout focusing on mobility and blood flow. After your workout focus on some light movement with stretching and/or foam rolling to help prevent muscle soreness and tightness.”

Daily Exercise

Alexia_Clark4alexia_clark/Instagram

How often does Alexia exercise? “Personally, I try to move my body in some way 7 days a week because I feel better and have more energy when I’m active. I post my workouts 5 days a week, but if you have specific activities you enjoy, or want to repeat a previous workout on the weekends you definitely can. Listen to your body and make sure if you feel you need a rest day you take one!” she said on her website.

RELATED: 5 Signs Your Metabolism is Damaged from Dieting, According to a Dietitian – and How to Heal It

Hiking

Foggy cold morning weather in autumn. Woman with backpack and knit hat hiking in forest at fall seasonShutterstock

If she’s not at the gym, you will find Alexia burning calories outdoors. “I leave the weekends open for you to do any activities you enjoy. Some people will use it as recovery and focus on yoga or stretching, while others might go for a run or swim or repeat a circuit from a previous exercise,” she said on her website.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to build your glutes, make sure to do two to three glute workouts per week in addition to your other exercises.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

You don’t need to spend an hour at the gym to get a good workout in. According to Britany Williams, a Sweat trainer and social media influencer, it all takes 10 minutes. She recently shared a new workout via Instagram that can be completed fast and at home. Here is everything you need to know about the workout – and 8 of the trainer’s top diet and fitness tips.


All You Need Is a Resistance Band

Resistance band exercise at home. Woman doing pilates workout using elastic strap pulling with arms for shoulder training on yoga mat indoors.Shutterstock

“Short on time? This FULL BODY workout using a resistance band is exactly what you need. This workout is from my new Core and Restore workout program that helps minimize core dysfunction and improve posture alignment,” Williams writes in the post.

Here Is the Circuit

britany-williams-2britanywilliams/Instagram

“Do each exercise for 30 seconds on each side and repeat the circuit 2x. Minimize rest between exercises,” she adds, revealing the workout.

EXERCISES ⬇️

▪️ Squat + Straight Arm Kickback

▪️ Kneeling Single Arm Row

▪️ Kneeling Chest Press

▪️ Pallof Press

▪️ Rotational Kickstand Deadlift

Eat Food That Supports Your Goals, Nutrition, and Joy

Fitness,Breakfast,running,healthy,eating,saladShutterstock

In a TikTok video, Britany explains her approach to diet. “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 whatever it is, you started your meal plan by 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 goals, but what also supports my joy?” she says.

RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Fit as a Pear Body Type

Save Upper Body Workouts for Lazy Days

Beautiful blonde middle age woman doing weights exercises with dumbbells outdoors, sunny summer evening. Healthy active lifestyle, body consciousShutterstock

Britany recommends a hack for lazy workout days. “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

Sport watch run woman checking smartwatch tracker. Trail running runner girl looking at heart rate monitor smart watch in forest wearing jacket sportswear. Female athlete jogger training in woods.Shutterstock

Running — great for cardiovascular health, muscle building, and weight loss, per the Mayo Clinic — is one of Britany’s favorite workouts. “For every mile run, the average person will burn approximately 100 calories,” they say. If you can’t go for a long run, she recommends alternating walking and running for one-minute intervals, increasing the length of the run interval every couple of weeks.

Do Push Ups

Gorgeous brunette warming up and doing some push ups a the gymShutterstock

Britany has “struggled with pushups for years” but claims to know the secret to getting them done. “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.

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

Show Up for Workouts When You Can

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As a new mom, Britany always reminds her followers to go easy on themselves. “I went from working out six days a week religiously to having more days where I don’t work out than days that I do. 🫠I share this not as a get-out-of-jail-free card - I don’t want you to skip your workout. I share this so you know that it’s normal to have seasons of life where workouts are sporadic and short. You’ve just gotta focus on showing up when you can,” she writes.

Be Yourself

britany-williams-1britanywilliams/Instagram

Britany revealed to Sweat her number one piece of advice. “To be yourself,” she said. “As someone who is in the social media space, I find it really easy to want to fall into line with other people. It was the same thing when I had a corporate job - it was really easy to do what I thought was wanted of me or what was going to get me a promotion. But I’ve always found that results are much better when you just show up as you.”

Chocolate Ice Cream

Top view Close up Stainless steel ice cream scoop is scooping chocolate flavor ice cream meat.Shutterstock

If Britany could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be? “It would most likely be chocolate ice cream. No, I take that back. It’s going to be chocolate chip cookies, but they would be really specific cookies. My husband makes these chocolate chip cookies with oatmeal, pecans or walnuts, cinnamon, really big chocolate chunks, and some sea salt on top. This restaurant down the street from where I live put rosemary in their chocolate chip cookies, so let’s add that, too,” she told Sweat.

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

Do Her Favorite Exercise

Sporty woman tying shoelace on running shoes before practice. Female athlete preparing for jogging outdoors. Runner getting ready for training. Sport active lifestyle concept. Close-upShutterstock

If Britany could only do one exercise for the rest of her life, what would it be? “It would probably be a thruster - a squat and press with dumbbells in my hands. It’s full-body. It gets your heart rate up… Wait, scratch that as well. If I could only do one exercise, I would definitely run. My knees would hate me, but so be it,” she told Sweat.

💪🔥Body Booster: Run for better health and weight loss. Can't run long? No problem! Try alternating 1-minute walks and runs. Gradually increase your running time every few weeks.

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.

Tired of waving goodbye and having your arms wave back? Don't rush to buy expensive weights or gym memberships. Fitness expertJenna Collins has helped thousands of women transform their arms using nothing but their own body weight.


With over 400,000 YouTube followers and 25 years of fitness experience, Jenna specializes in helping women get toned, sculpted arms at home. Her approach? Using your body's natural resistance to build muscle and burn fat. Keep reading to learn her simple, equipment-free exercises that you can start right now, in your own home, to finally get those lean, defined arms you've always wanted.

Why Body Weight Training Works Better Than Weights

"The primary cause of loose or flabby arms comes down to lack of muscle tone," says Jenna in her post. "Many people think they need heavy weights to build muscle, but your own body weight provides the perfect resistance for toning arms." She explains that bodyweight exercises allow for better form and more natural movement patterns, reducing injury risk while maximizing results.

The Age Factor: Natural Resistance Is Your Friend

"Around our mid-thirties, our skin begins to lose elasticity, and we start losing muscle mass," Jenna notes. But here's the good news: bodyweight exercises are particularly effective for women over 35. "They allow you to build strength gradually and safely, working with your body's natural mechanics."

Stop Wasting Money on Equipment

"You need to stop thinking you need expensive equipment or gym memberships," Jenna warns. "The most effective arm-toning exercises use nothing but your own body weight and perhaps a wall." This approach not only saves money but ensures you can work out anywhere, anytime.

The Science Behind Body Weight Training

"Research shows that bodyweight exercises can build muscle just as effectively as weight training," Jenna explains. "You can build muscle by performing anywhere from 6 to 30 reps." This flexibility makes bodyweight training perfect for all fitness levels. Read on to learn Jenna’s no-equipment arm transformation plan. Follow these precise workouts, progressing at your own pace.

Level 1: Wall Push-ups

  • Perfect for beginners
  • Equipment needed: Just a wall
  • Form: "Stand facing wall, hands shoulder-width apart. Keep core engaged, glutes squeezed"
  • Do: 6-12 reps for 3-4 sets
  • Rest: 60 seconds between sets
  • Why it works: "Wall push-ups perfectly engage your triceps while being gentle on joints."

Level 2: Diamond Knee Push-ups

  • For intermediate fitness levels
  • Equipment needed: None (just a comfortable floor space)
  • Form: "Create a diamond shape with your hands, knees on floor"
  • Do: 6-12 reps for 3-4 sets
  • Rest: 60 seconds between sets
  • Why it works: "The diamond shape targets triceps more intensely than regular push-ups."

Level 3: Full Diamond Push-ups

  • Advanced movement
  • Equipment needed: None
  • Form: "Full push-up position, hands in diamond shape, body straight"
  • Do: 6-12 reps for 3-4 sets
  • Rest: 60 seconds between sets
  • Why it works: "Maximum engagement of arm muscles using full body weight."

The Kitchen Connection

"To reveal toned arms, you need to fuel your body right," Jenna advises. "Aim for 0.7 to one gram of protein per pound of body weight daily." No expensive supplements needed – focus on whole foods like eggs, lean meats, beans, and Greek yogurt.

Your No-Equipment Success Plan

"Results come from consistency, not fancy equipment," Jenna explains. Follow these tips:

  • Start with Level 1, perfect your form
  • Progress only when you can do all sets with proper form
  • Work out 3-4 times per week
  • Take progress photos every 2 weeks
  • Give yourself 2-3 months to see significant changes
  • Focus on slow, controlled movements

Remember: "The best exercise equipment you have is your own body," Jenna says. "Master these movements, be patient, and watch your arms transform." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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.

A new year, a new you! Are you hoping to make 2025 the year you achieve all of your weight loss goals? “Start now,” encourages one fitness guru. Kelsey Rose is a fitness trainer who has hundreds of thousands of followers on social media. In one of her first posts of the year, she reveals “how to transform your body in 2025” by doing three simple things. “Re-Align in 2025 — let’s make this your best year Yet! And I’m here to help,” she writes.


Join Her Program

Before she goes into detail, she explains that if “you’re ready to feel your strongest, leanest, and most confident self,” you should consider joining her 7-Day Power Reset (Jan 6th) followed by an 8-week re-align program (Jan 13th). “We’re focusing on strength, Pilates, and nutrition to help you hit your goals. Here’s exactly how we’re making it happen step by step,” she writes in her post.

Mix Strength Training and Pilates

First, mix strength with Pilates workouts 3 to 5 times a week. “This combination is the secret sauce for building lean muscle while staying mobile and injury-free. Strength training helps you sculpt and tone, while Pilates improves flexibility and strengthens stabilizing muscles. Plus, incorporating daily deep core work will tighten your waistline, flatten your tummy, and give you that strong, balanced core we all love,” she says.

RELATED: This Coach Lost 100 Pounds Without Dieting by Focusing on These 4 Basic Rules

Then, Walk for 15 to 30 Minutes

“After every strength or Pilates session, set aside 15-30 minutes for walking,” she says. “This isn’t just about burning extra calories—it’s about keeping your body in fat-burning mode while improving recovery. Pair that with hitting 10k steps daily to keep your metabolism thriving and your energy high throughout the day. Small actions = BIG results.”

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

Nail Your Nutrition

And last but not least, focus on nutrition. “You can’t out-train a poor diet—so let’s focus on hitting 30g of protein per meal to fuel muscle recovery, support fat loss, and keep you full for longer. Minimize sugar intake to stop cravings in their tracks and prevent energy crashes. Remember: abs are made in the kitchen, and this step will truly set you apart,” she says.

Her Program Is Sustainable

“This January, our challenges will guide you every step of the way with tailored workouts, mindfulness routines, and recipes designed to make these habits sustainable and fun. Don’t wait to start—your future self will thank you! Xx,” she concludes.

RELATED: 4 Strength Moves to Transform Your Body in 30 Days, Says Expert

You Can Also Try Her 15-Minute Workout

In another post, she unveils her 15-minute walking workout. “This is your sign to STOP skipping your post-workout cardio and squeeze in a quick 15-minute treadmill workout for best results!!💦✨ It’s easy to feel like cardio needs to be a long, intense session to matter, but even a short burst after strength training can make a big impact,” she says.

It Helps Burn Fat, Increase Endurance, and Rev Metabolism

“By adding just 15 minutes on the treadmill, you can boost fat burn, increase endurance, and rev up your metabolism—all without draining yourself. Cardio is also a great way to wind down, reset, and give your body some extra love post-workout,” she says.

Here Is the 15 Minute Workout

“My Cheat Code Treadmill Series,” she says.

  1. 5 min steady walk at incline 8, speed 3.0—get the blood flowing!
  2. 5 min intervals: alternate 30-sec fast run (speed 6.0-8.0) + 30-sec walk (speed 3.0) to elevate your heart rate and maximize calorie burn
  3. 5 min cool down with incline 5, speed 3.0—ease into a steady pace and let your body relax.

RELATED: Build Lean Muscle Fast With These 9 Dietitian-Proven Protein Switches

Do It After Your Regular Workout

Do it after your regular workout, she recommends. “Just 15 minutes, and you’re done! Try it out as a finisher for your next workout and see how it feels to add this extra boost. Let’s make cardio simple and effective!” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks.

Sarah Gearino sarahgearino_coach
Copyright sarahgearino_coach/Instagram

Are you over 40 and feeling like weight loss just isn’t possible? That isn’t the case, according to an expert. According to her Instagram bio, Sarah Gearino is a Nutrition, Fitness, & Hormone Expert who specializes in helping women over 40 achieve their fitness goals. In a new post, she explains her expert advice about slimming down. “If I wanted to lose fat fast as a woman 40+ without wrecking my metabolism, here are the 10 things I’d do,” she writes in the post.

Increase Protein Intake

Her first suggestion is to increase your protein intake. “Aim for 30-40g of protein per meal to support muscle mass and satiety. Prioritize lean meats, eggs, fish, & plant-based sources,” she suggests.

Strength Train 4-5x Per Week

Her next tip is to lift weights four to five times per week. “Focus on progressive overload with compound movements (squats, deadlifts, presses). More muscle = better metabolism,” she says.

Walk 8,000-10,000 Steps Daily

It’s no surprise that walking – 8,000 to 10,000 steps per day – is also on her list. “NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis) is one of the biggest fat loss drivers without stressing your body. I got a walking pad and swear by it!” she says.

Prioritize Sleep (8-9 Hours)

Getting sleep – eight to nine hours per night – is also helpful. “Poor sleep wrecks hormones (cortisol, insulin, ghrelin) and increases cravings. Create a wind-down routine, avoid screens an hour before bed, and take magnesium,” she says.

Stop Starving Yourself

Starving yourself won’t help you lose weight in the long run. “Undereating = metabolic slowdown and muscle loss. A small 15-20% calorie deficit (not drastic cuts) is more sustainable,” she writes.

Balance Blood Sugar & Cook All Meals

Keep your blood sugar balanced and ensure healthy eating by cooking for yourself. “Eat protein + fiber + healthy fats at each meal to avoid crashes and cravings. Use blood sugar hacks such as eating fiber first,” she suggests.

Cycle Carbs Based on Activity

You should also practice carb-cycling based on your workout. “Higher carb on strength training days (sweet potatoes, fruit, cassava). Lower carb on rest days (but still get fiber-rich veggies),” she says.

Manage Stress/Cortisol

Managing stress and cortisol levels plays a significant role in fat loss. “Chronic stress keeps cortisol high, leading to belly fat storage. Daily deep breathing, walks, adaptogens, and magnesium help,” she says.

Prioritize Strength Over Endless Cardio

Put your focus on strength training over cardio. “Too much cardio can burn muscle & slow metabolism. 2 short 15 min HIIT sessions/wk are great for fat loss without excess stress,” she says.

Properly Fuel Pre & Post-Workout

Make sure you fuel your body before and after exercise. “Eat protein + carbs before & after workouts to preserve muscle & improve recovery. Fasted workouts can backfire if stress is already high. In the least, drink BCAA’s before & after if you don’t want to eat,” she says.

Surround Yourself with Like-Minded People

One last suggestion? “Surround yourself with like-minded people who have the same goals. This goes a long way,” she promises. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Rachel Marcinko rachel_mar5fit
Copyright rachel_mar5fit/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

According to experts, you can eat fast food and lose weight. Rachel Marcinko is a fitness and nutrition coach who maintains a physique with just 15 percent body fat. In a new post, she reveals a major secret: She eats fast food and manages to lose fat while doing so. “4 fast food high protein meals under 500 calories I eat on the go when trying to lose body fat,” she writes, revealing her go-to meals from Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, Panera and Starbucks.

Chipotle: High-Protein Bowl

Here is her Chipotle order:

  • Chicken or steak
  • Fajita veggies
  • Romaine lettuce
  • Tomato salsa
  • Light black beans

Optional: sour cream on the side for dipping, but be mindful of the amount.

Calories: ~350 | Protein ~40g.

Chick-fil-A” Grilled Chicken Nuggets with Side Salad

Here is her Chick-fil-A order:

  • 12-count grilled nuggets
  • Side salad with light dressing
  • Try the Light Balsamic Vinegarette, Honey Mustard, or Light Italian for lower-calorie dressing options.

Calories: ~360 | Protein ~49g.

Panera: Custom Salad with Chicken

Here is her Panera order:

  • Green Goddess Cobb (no avocado, no bacon)
  • Extra chicken
  • Keep the dressing on the side to control fat intake

Calories: ~370 | Protein ~43g.

Starbucks: Turkey Bacon & Egg White Sandwich

At Starbucks, she keeps is simple, ordering the Turkey Bacon & Egg White Sandwich.

Calories: 230 | Protein: 17g.

Why These Options Work

“These options along with others can be very easily included in a meal plan tailored towards your fat loss goals,” she writes. No more guessing what to eat or how many calories you need to lose fat.”

She Also Eats Bowls, Starting with This Korean Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Bowl

In another post, she reveals four of her go-to meal bowls for fat loss. Korean Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Bowl.

Protein: ~42g.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz lean ground beef (90-93% lean)
  • Seasoned with chili oil, sesame oil, teriyaki, and brown sugar
  • ½ medium Japanese sweet potato
  • ¼ avocado, sliced
  • 2-4 tbsp shredded cheese
  • ½ cup sautéed spinach or kale (optional)
  • Truffle hot sauce (optional).

Yolo Greek Yogurt/Cottage Cheese Bowl

Protein: ~40g

Ingredients:

  • 1 - 1 ½ cup Fage Greek yogurt or cottage cheese (or mix)
  • ¼ cup granola
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • ½ cup mixed berries
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds
  • ½ scoop protein powder (optional for more protein)
  • Other optional toppings - rice cakes, cereal, sugar-free chocolate syrup, PB, powdered pb, dates, pumpkin seeds, sugar-free pudding mix.

Salmon & Quinoa Bowl

Protein: ~42g

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz grilled salmon
  • ½ cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • ¼ cup edamame
  • 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tbsp dried cranberries
  • 1 tbsp lite balsamic dressing.

Chipotle Chicken Thigh Bowl

Protein: ~40g

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cooked in crockpot with chipotle peppers, honey, garlic, and sale and pepper)
  • ½ cup cooked cilantro-lime rice
  • ¼ cup black beans
  • ¼ avocado, sliced
  • ¼ cup pickled red onions
  • 1 tbsp cotija or feta cheese
  • Sauce: greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, sale pepper, chipotle sauce
  • Fresh cilantro & lime juice.
And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

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

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

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

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

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

High-Protein Berry Oatmeal

This breakfast dish is packed with 35g of protein.

Ingredients:

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

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

Grilled Chicken & Quinoa Bowl

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

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

Ingredients:

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

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

Turkey Taco Bowl

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

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

Ingredients:

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

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

Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Potatoes

Pan fried butter garlic shrimp on plate

Shutterstock

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

Ingredients:

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

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

High-Protein Chocolate Yogurt Bowl

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

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

Ingredients:

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

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

Buffalo Chicken Wrap

fresh chicken breast raw on cutting board​8. ChickenShutterstock

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

Ingredients:

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

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

Greek Chicken Bowl

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

Ingredients:

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

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

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Taco Bowl

Raw minced beef uncooked meat over board​Burger BowlShutterstock

Ingredients:

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

Garlic Butter Steak & Sweet Potato Skillet

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

Shutterstock

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

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean sirloin steak, cubed

• 2 large sweet potatoes, diced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt & pepper.

Instructions:

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

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

3. Mix everything together and serve!

(40g protein, 420 cals per serving).

Teriyaki Salmon & Rice

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

Ingredients:

• 4 (4 oz) salmon fillets

• 2 cups cooked brown rice

• 2 cups steamed broccoli

• ¼ cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste.

Instructions:

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

2. While salmon cooks, steam broccoli and prepare rice

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

(35g protein, 400 cals per serving),

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

mexican chili chicken stew​Slow Cooker Salsa ChickenShutterstock

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 1 jar (16 oz) salsa

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained

• 1 cup frozen corn

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (per serving).

Instructions:

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

2. Shred chicken with forks and mix everything together

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

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