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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.

Coach Dropped 100 Pounds Using These 9 Daily Habits

Start building these habits and watch the weight fall off.

Dusty_Young7

Are you trying to lose weight but can’t seem to achieve any success? You might need to incorporate some new strategies into your life. Dusty Young is a weight loss warrior and coach who personally lost 100 pounds and helped others do the same. The “recovering fat kid” regularly shares tips, tricks, and insights into losing weight in a natural and sustainable way. In a new post, he unveils the 9 fat loss strategies that helped him lose 100 pounds. “These changed everything!” he wrote in his Instagram post. “First things first – If you don’t eat less calories than you burn, you’re not losing weight. Period. These are the things that helped me do just that!”


He Ate Bigger Meals

According to Dusty, less snacking was one of the key components of his weight loss. Instead, he focused on eating bigger meals. “I tried eating more frequent, smaller meals throughout the day, but it just left me constantly hungry & always thinking about food. Bigger meals don’t,” he says in his post.

He Ate More Protein

Amping up his protein intake was also an important habit he incorporates. “Eat high protein,” he writes. “It helps preserve & build muscle, but also keeps you fuller longer. Aim for around 1 gram per pound of your ideal body weight.”

He Put Thought Into His Meals

Don’t eat thoughtlessly, he continues. “Put thought into my meals,” he writes. “You don’t have to plan and prep everything, but it’s a lot easier to hit your goals if you don’t have to make decisions on the fly.”

He also started strength training and building muscle. “Lift weights 2-4x a week,” he encourages. “Muscle is your best friend for boosting metabolism and longterm weight-loss & management.”

RELATED: 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks

He Prioritizes Sleep

Getting enough sleep is also key. “Set a consistent bedtime,” he writes. “Getting 7-9 quality hours of sleep increases energy & keeps cravings at bay. Make it easy by setting a non negotiable bed time.”

And, he also started walking. “Get at least 7,000-10,000 steps a day – You don’t NEED to do a bunch of cardio - just stay active and move throughout the day. Every step adds up!” he writes.

He Doesn’t Drink His Calories

Next, he stopped drinking his calories. “Limit liquid calories,” he writes. “Sodas, juices, & fancy coffee drinks are sneaky calorie bombs that don’t fill you up. Stick to water, seltzer, tea, simple coffees, & zero sugar drinks the majority of the time.”

RELATED: 13 Tips That Took This Coach From 30% to 10% Body Fat

He Eats Mostly Nutrient Dense Foods

He also eats mostly nutrient dense foods. “Focus on whole-foods. They give you the biggest bang for your buck. They’re high in nutrients and fiber, which means you’ll feel full, energized, and on track with your goals,” he says.

RELATED: Ariana Grande Looks Leggy in Leotard: 10 Things to Know About Her “Wicked” Vegan Diet

He Avoids Extreme Restrictions

Also, avoiding extreme restrictions was a big deal. “Losing the weight became a lot easier when I didn’t cut out my favorite foods like ice cream (that just led to binges). I just had to learn how to eat them in moderation,” he says.

“You don’t have to do ALL of these to see success, but the more you can focus on, the better off you’ll be. If this list seems overwhelming, start with the easiest one for you. Be consistent with it, and slowly add more over time,” he concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

More For You

Dusty_Young7
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you trying to lose weight but can’t seem to achieve any success? You might need to incorporate some new strategies into your life. Dusty Young is a weight loss warrior and coach who personally lost 100 pounds and helped others do the same. The “recovering fat kid” regularly shares tips, tricks, and insights into losing weight in a natural and sustainable way. In a new post, he unveils the 9 fat loss strategies that helped him lose 100 pounds. “These changed everything!” he wrote in his Instagram post. “First things first – If you don’t eat less calories than you burn, you’re not losing weight. Period. These are the things that helped me do just that!”


He Ate Bigger Meals

According to Dusty, less snacking was one of the key components of his weight loss. Instead, he focused on eating bigger meals. “I tried eating more frequent, smaller meals throughout the day, but it just left me constantly hungry & always thinking about food. Bigger meals don’t,” he says in his post.

He Ate More Protein

Amping up his protein intake was also an important habit he incorporates. “Eat high protein,” he writes. “It helps preserve & build muscle, but also keeps you fuller longer. Aim for around 1 gram per pound of your ideal body weight.”

He Put Thought Into His Meals

Don’t eat thoughtlessly, he continues. “Put thought into my meals,” he writes. “You don’t have to plan and prep everything, but it’s a lot easier to hit your goals if you don’t have to make decisions on the fly.”

He also started strength training and building muscle. “Lift weights 2-4x a week,” he encourages. “Muscle is your best friend for boosting metabolism and longterm weight-loss & management.”

RELATED: 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks

He Prioritizes Sleep

Getting enough sleep is also key. “Set a consistent bedtime,” he writes. “Getting 7-9 quality hours of sleep increases energy & keeps cravings at bay. Make it easy by setting a non negotiable bed time.”

And, he also started walking. “Get at least 7,000-10,000 steps a day – You don’t NEED to do a bunch of cardio - just stay active and move throughout the day. Every step adds up!” he writes.

He Doesn’t Drink His Calories

Next, he stopped drinking his calories. “Limit liquid calories,” he writes. “Sodas, juices, & fancy coffee drinks are sneaky calorie bombs that don’t fill you up. Stick to water, seltzer, tea, simple coffees, & zero sugar drinks the majority of the time.”

RELATED: 13 Tips That Took This Coach From 30% to 10% Body Fat

He Eats Mostly Nutrient Dense Foods

He also eats mostly nutrient dense foods. “Focus on whole-foods. They give you the biggest bang for your buck. They’re high in nutrients and fiber, which means you’ll feel full, energized, and on track with your goals,” he says.

RELATED: Ariana Grande Looks Leggy in Leotard: 10 Things to Know About Her “Wicked” Vegan Diet

He Avoids Extreme Restrictions

Also, avoiding extreme restrictions was a big deal. “Losing the weight became a lot easier when I didn’t cut out my favorite foods like ice cream (that just led to binges). I just had to learn how to eat them in moderation,” he says.

“You don’t have to do ALL of these to see success, but the more you can focus on, the better off you’ll be. If this list seems overwhelming, start with the easiest one for you. Be consistent with it, and slowly add more over time,” he concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Tammi_Kuthan10
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 weight in 2025 without going to extremes? One expert has an easy to follow and sustainable approach. Tammi Kuthan is an influencer who helps women over 40 achieve fat loss. In a new social media post, she reveals exactly what you should do if you want to dwindle your waistline. “I went from a size 10 to a size 4 without yo-yo dieting, without fad diets, without hours at the gym,” she writes across the Instagram video, going on to reveal her sustainable approach to weight loss.


She Was Stuck in the Cycle of “Eat Less, Run More”

Fit athletic middle-aged woman jogging on a road alongside a canal approaching the camera with a smile of pleasure in a healthy lifestyle conceptShutterstock

“I was stuck in the endless cycle of ‘eat less, run more,’ only to watch my body cling to every ounce of fat like it was preparing for a long winter hibernation. Sound familiar? At size 10, I was frustrated, trying every diet that promised a miracle. (Spoiler alert: those didn’t work, especially after 40.) But then I made some changes,” she writes in her post.

8,000 to 10,000 Steps Per Day

Woman tying running shoe laces preparing for run on ocean beach, copy space, closeup. Cropped image of female fitness runner getting ready for jogging outdoorsShutterstock

Her first recommendation is getting in 8-10k steps a day. “Forget the endless cardio marathons. Daily steps are my winter MVPs. They help with insulin sensitivity, keep energy levels up, and make post-dinner walks my new favorite tradition,” she says.

RELATED: She Lost 40 Pounds and Kept It Off with These 5 High-Protein Breakfasts

Strength Training

Woman, weights and dumbbells with earphones in gym for muscle strength, audio streaming and power lifting. Mature athlete, person and happy with weightlifting or music for online podcast and radioShutterstock

Strength training 3-4x a week for 30 minutes is her second recommendation. “Turns out, strength training isn’t just for the 20-somethings. Short, effective strength sessions built muscle, revved up my metabolism, and said goodbye to that stubborn belly fat,” she says.

Carb Cycling and Balanced Macros

Happy elderly couple smiling husband and wife in aprons prepare salad together at kitchen table, chopping variety of colorful vegetables, trying to maintain healthy lifestyle eating vegetarian foodShutterstock

Carb cycling and balanced macros are also key. “Cutting carbs completely? No, thanks. I cycled carbs to fuel strength days and kept my body guessing in a good way. Balanced macros meant I was eating enough protein and healthy fats to keep my hormones, therefore myself, happy,” she writes.

Sleep

Woman sleeping in bed peacefully at home beside alarm clockShutterstock

Quality sleep is the final element. “6 hours? Not enough, ladies. I started prioritizing 7-8 hours, and the difference was night and day (literally). Better sleep kept cortisol levels down, which helped prevent those pesky cravings and belly fat,” she writes.

RELATED: 50+ Fitness Coach Swears by These 8 Foods to Stay Fit and Strong

These Things Were Instrumental in Her Weight Loss

A great sporty woman jogging outdoors on sunset time

“Winter doesn’t have to be all about oversized sweaters (though I still love them). With these changes, I went from a size 10 to a size 4 without food restriction or intense workouts. Ladies, it’s time to forget about the quick-fix diets and marathon treadmill sessions. These simply do not work - except for making you feel more tired and making that belly fat stay linger. It’s time to work with that body of yours for REAL results!” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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 lose more than 40 pounds? While it might seem intimidating to embark on a major weight loss journey, there are lots of weight loss warriors who have shared their success stories to keep you inspired and motivated. Many of them have revealed the easy and doable lifestyle changes they made that enabled them to slim down and keep the weight off. Here are 20 tips from nine men and women who have lost up to 165 pounds to help you achieve your weight loss goals.


Indya Ago Lost 120 Pounds by Learning How to Have a “Balanced” Approach to Food

@indyaagos

Something I tell my clients when they first start coaching with me is that in order for these results to be sustainable we have to create balance. when I first started my weight loss journey, I used to restrict myself so much, I would demonize so many different kinds of foods that diet culture had brainwashed me, and into believing were the reason why I wasn’t able to reach the results I was looking for. Which just led me to cycles of binging, and creating a very unhealthy relationship between nutrition and my body. Through proper education on macronutrients, I was able to heal this relationship. And this is how I help my clients and maintain their goals as well. Education is power. WIEIAD DEETS: 💚 breakfast: protein, pancakes, egg, white scramble, turkey bacon 💚 snack: fruit, salad, and protein smoothie 💚 lunch: birria tacos + veg 💚 dinner: seafood boil Babe, if you’re ready to finally create a lifestyle transformation that’s sustainable while still eating all of the foods that you enjoy, I would love to work with you. I’m now accepting new clients, the link is in my bio. Let’s get to work! #weightlosstransformation #weightlosstips #weightlossjourney #weightlossgoals #weightlosscoach #weightlosshelp #weightlosschallenge #fatlosstips #fatlossjourney #nutritiontips #mindsetcoach #caloriedeficit #summerbody #nutritioncoach #fitnesscoach #mindset #mindsetcoach #mentalhealth #weightlosstransformation #fatlosstips #fatlosstransformation #whatieatinaday #highprotein

Indya Agos (@indyaagos) is a weight loss warrior and coach who lost a whopping 120 pounds via natural methods. “Something I tell my clients when they first start coaching with me is that in order for these results to be sustainable we have to create balance,” she says. “When I first started my weight loss journey, I used to restrict myself so much,” she continues. “I would demonize so many different kinds of foods that diet culture had brainwashed me, and into believing were the reason why I wasn’t able to reach the results I was looking for.”

She Also Educated Herself on Macronutrients

Indya previously suffered from “cycles of binging, and creating a very unhealthy relationship between nutrition and my body,” she maintains. “Through proper education on macronutrients, I was able to heal this relationship. And this is how I help my clients and maintain their goals as well. Education is power.”

RELATED:15 Reasons Why You May Not Losing Weight While on Ozempic

She “Started Slow” and Learned “Self-Trust”

@indyaagos

If you wanna lose 80 pounds next year, I’m gonna tell you exactly how to do it! No gatekeeping the secret to success here. The number one thing that you need to get clear on, is the amount of time it’s going to take you to achieve your goal, the amount of effort required for you to get there, and, of course, why it’s so important to you. Setting a realistic expectation for yourself, while also simultaneously connecting with your why is the first step to create the foundation. You need to be successful through 2024. When you understand that this journey is going to take time, it’s going to require sacrifice, it’s going to require you stepping so far out of your comfort zone, that you may be paralyzed by fear at times. But being okay with the discomfort. Surrendering to knowing that in those moments of uncertainty, in those moments of insecurity, and discomfort, are facilitating growth. Connecting with knowing that, allowing yourself to grow, is what is going to help you reach your goals. And not only reach your goals, sustain those achievements. Baby, 2024 can be your year, and the first thing that you need to do, is get your mindset right. Know why you’re on this journey, know what you need to do to get from point A to point B, and set yourself up for success. Start building the mindset, habits, and routines into your daily life now in order to be successful 2024. and if you’re ready to take the next step, you’re ready to invest in yourself. I’m now accepting applications for January. The link is in my bio let’s get to work!🤘🏽 #weightlosstransformation #weightlosstips #weightlossjourney #weightlossgoals #weightlosscoach #weightlosshelp #weightlosschallenge #fatlosstips #fatlossjourney #nutritiontips #mindsetcoach #newyearsresolution #newyearnewme #nutritioncoach #fitnesscoach

In another video, Indya reveals another tactic that helped her lose so much weight. “You got to start slow,” she says. “If you approach this from an all or nothing mentality, you are only setting yourself up for failure. A big part of this journey is regaining self-trust. You are so used to letting yourself down. The way that you build trust with yourself again is by following through with the promises that you've made to yourself.”

And Took a Deep Dive Into Her Failed Attempts at Weight Loss

Another thing she did is “going to require you to dig deep,” she says. “We need to figure out what your main excuses or your repeated point of failure chances are. You've been stuck in the same exact cycle, repeating the same narratives as to why you haven't been able to be successful in the past. If your story is that you never have any time, then we need to figure out why you're not prioritizing making time. People make time for what's important to them. If the story is that you are overwhelmed and you have no idea where to start, then it is time to reach out for help so that you have a plan of action as well as guidance.”

Raven Norwood Lost 165 Pounds By Cutting Processed Foods From Her Diet

Raven_Norwood_rowwithraven1rowwithraven/Instagram

Raven Norwood, 28, of Huntington Beach, California, started her weight loss journey at 212 pounds and has managed to drop down to 155 pounds, losing 165 pounds in two years. In an interview with Body Network, she explains that she used to eat food containing several dyes, fast food, and packaged food with GMOs, too much MSG, and preservatives. While she didn’t eliminate “any specific food groups because balance is the key to longevity,” she did cut the above from her diet and started cooking her own meals “as much as possible.” Creating healthy relationships with all food groups is so important when it comes to keeping the weight off, she stresses. “Balance is key, so, if I want a cookie here and there, I eat the cookie… no biggie!”

RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

She Also Amped Up Her Water Intake

Raven_Norwood_rowwithraven2raven.grl/Instagram

Raven adds that “lots of water” keeps her hydrated and feeling full. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is important for a variety of reasons. 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.

She Fell in Love with a Boutique Fitness Method

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Raven also encourages finding a fitness form that you love. She discovered rowing at her local Row House. “I love how boutique and specialized gyms are getting more recognition! When I first found Row House, I had never seen a gym dedicated to rowing,” she says. “And on top of that you get floorwork exercises, group fitness and the wonderful community that comes along with it! I think a lot of people would benefit from boutique gyms.”

She Took Progress Pictures

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Progress photos were also an important part of Raven’s weight loss journey. “Sometimes your mind will play tricks on you, and make you feel like you haven’t done as much as you have,” she says. If she feels discouraged, she will look at her “Day 1” photo and it will provide instant motivation. “Take photos because your mind will play tricks on you, but those photos won’t,” she says.

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

Dils Less Lost 50 Pounds by Not Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach

Dils Lee (@dilshealth) lost 50 pounds by making a few simple lifestyle habit changes, which not only aided in weight loss, but were a game-changer in her overall health, especially with her inflammation and hormonal imbalance. One of the first changes that she made? “I stopped drinking coffee on an empty stomach and started making my breakfast look like this,” she said. “Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can lead to bloating, nausea, and anxiety, and it can also raise your cortisol levels, which can negatively impact ovulation weight and hormonal imbalances.”

She Also Switched From HIIT to Low Intensity Workouts

You don’t have to do HIIT workouts to lose weight. The second change that she made “was stopping all high intensity training while I was losing weight,” she said. “I found that I harbored a lot of inflammation in my face, arms, body, stomach, and legs everywhere.” Instead, she opted for lower intensity training. “Basically, by switching to lower intensity workouts, I've found that my waist has drastically come in. My stomach is much more flat, and I'm actually building a lot of tone and muscle in my arms and legs,” she says.

And, She Prioritized Sleep

“The fourth change that I made is that I introduced a healthy sleep routine,” Dils reveals. “My routine includes using supplements like magnesium and then not using my phone an hour before bed. Prioritizing sleep will help your body recover after physical activity. It'll also help with hormone regulation, metabolic regulation, stress and emotional wellbeing.” What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

Joseph Graham Jr. Lost 75 Pounds By Jump Roping and Doing Pushups

@theguywiththepinkshoes

🎟️ before and after - 50 lbs (weight loss transformation)🔥 show people where you started🌸✌🏾 #WeightLossJourney #WeightLoss #Fittok #jumprope #jumpropechallenge #transformationchallenge #HealthyLiving #FitnessGoals #BeforeAndAfter #BodyPositivity #WellnessWednesday #GlowUp #FitnessMotivation #LifestyleChange #DietTransformation #MindBodySoul #SelfLoveJourney #EmpowerYourself #FitnessInspiration #ChangeIsGood #WeightLossStory #ProgressNotPerfection #InspireOthers #WellnessTransformation #MotivatedMindset #FitnessJourney #PositiveChanges #NewYou #HealthyHabits #fyp #foryourpage #beforeandafterweightloss #ilikewhenitrains

No gym, no problem. Joseph Graham Jr. (@theguywiththepinkshoes) is a fitness influencer and “crossrope athlete” who lost a whopping 75 pounds and toned up his dad bod by jumping rope and doing push ups at home. He does “harder” push ups, he says. “It's not enough to just do as many as you can and do them fast. Once you feel comfortable doing pushups, once you feel like you've kind of got it down, you have to start making it harder for yourself,” he explains. “The resistance is what builds the strength, right?

Alexandra Lost 40 Pounds by Eating the Same Meals Every Day

Online fitness coach Alexandra (@alexx.fitt) personally lost 40 pounds by eating the same meals daily. “For 1-2 months I ate the same meals every single day why? Because I was confused I didn’t know what to eat or where to start so I ate the same thing everyday,” Alexandra confesses in the caption of her video.

She Also Walks 10,000 Steps a Day

In another video she reveals that walking 10,000 steps a day was also key. “I weigh around 150lbs so walking 10k steps burns an extra 300-400 calories a day without spending hours on the stair master,” says Alexandra. “Walking can be done anywhere you don’t have to get fancy gym clothes you can literally walk in your pjs,” she adds. And, it helps regulate hunger. “Walking is not an extremely difficult exercise and it can help regulate your appetite hormones and reduce feelings of hunger,” she says.

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

David Tuckfield Lost 60 Pounds EMS Workouts

David_Tuckfield7David Tuckfield

David Tuckfield, 61, dropped 60 pounds and reduced his body fat by 23 percent in 16 months by incorporating electro muscle stimulation (EMS) workouts into his routine, which he discovered at BODY20. “I was very skeptical when I first tried the EMS workouts. I was shocked after my demo workout how much I felt a difference,” he told Body Network. “For me, the amazing thing about the EMS workouts to me is that I can actually feel or sense my muscles. That was something that I had never experienced. At first I could feel them only during the workouts, but now when I exert myself I can discern which muscles are engaged. I don’t have huge or impressive muscles, but that I am more in-tune with the muscles I have. It is a good feeling to feel your muscles engage when you do an activity.” Another “great thing” about the workout “is that you really get a full workout (or better) in 20 minutes,” he says.

He Also Set Long-Term Goals

David_Tuckfield5David Tuckfield

He also started looking at weight loss as a long-term goal. “Don’t think short term. Think of it as a very long journey,” he suggests. “You will plateau, and you should just be comfortable with that. If you don’t stress out about the plateaus, you will eventually work through them.” Daily weigh-ins also helped him. “If you’ve gained weight, ask yourself what you did yesterday that would have made you gain weight. Usually the answer is obvious,” he says.

Joy Maria Lost 70 Pounds with Hot Girl Walks

@therealjoyymaria

Replying to @177777734 this is exactly how I did & you can too 🫶🏽🥂 #postpartumweightloss #weightlosstransformation #fatlossjourney #weightlossgoals #greenscreen

Joy Maria (@therealjoyymaria/video) is a weight loss influencer and mother who lost 70 pounds in less than 11 months with the help of, wait for it, “Hot girl walks,” she reveals in a video. “Walking is a thousand percent, the most underrated way to lose weight,” she adds, “and one of my favorite things to do is walk.” She started walking to her errands, walking to and from workouts, and whenever else she could get steps in.

She Also Followed a Meal Plan

@therealjoyymaria

Dont sleep on walking 🫶🏽 #hotgirlwalk #walking #weightloss #weightlosstransformation #weightlosscheck #postpartumweightloss

“If somebody is telling you that you can lose weight without being in a calorie deficit run because they're lying,” she adds, calling it “the most important step” to losing weight. “I know you guys have heard the saying, you cannot outrun a bad diet, and it's so true. Google, TDEE calculator. From there, put in your information. I'm gonna tell you exactly how many calories you need to eat. I ate about 1600 to 1800 calories daily, just depending on my activity level for the day. If I did two workouts that day, I would eat closer to 1800. If I had a more sedentary day, I would eat closer to 1500 to 1600.” She also followed a meal plan. “I have a seven day meal plan available at the top of my profile. It just makes it really easy when you're going to a grocery shop, when you're first starting out, when things are structured, it's gonna make it a lot easier to follow and just to stay consistent, not skipping breakfast, especially if we're exercising.”

Gen Cohen Lost 50 Pounds by Doing the 12-3-30

Gen Cohen, CNC, lost 50 pounds by doing a few different workouts, including the 12-3-30.

She said that “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,” in a video. “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.”

Joan Henning Lost 130 Pounds with Keto

Joan_HenningJoan Henning

In 2019, Joan Henning started her 130-pound weight loss journey with the keto diet.“ I was able to start keto,” she says. She stayed on the low carb diet for “months.” While on keto, “I probably lost about 10 pounds because keto, it comes off quickly,” she said.

💪🔥Body Booster: Start your weight loss journey slowly and avoid an all-or-nothing mentality to prevent setting yourself up for failure. Focus on regaining self-trust by consistently following through with the promises you make to yourself.

Jarred_Curcio
Jarred Curcio
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.

At the age of 19, Jarred Curcio, Owner at TRUE Fitness & Focus, stood at 5 '8' and weighed nearly 300 lbs. “I was extremely overweight,” he tells The Body Network. However, by his 21st birthday, he was a natural bodybuilding champion competing at 175lbs. Fifteen years later, he has “stayed consistent at 200lbs - mostly muscle mass. I have a 6-pack, I squat 550 lbs, and can deadlift 600 lbs.” Here is exactly how he transformed his life and got started on his health journey, which resulted in a 125-pound weight loss – and how he has maintained it throughout the years.


Weight Loss Transformed His Life

Jarred_Curcio6kingcurshatx/Instagram

Jarred explains that physical fitness has been a huge part of his life since his weight loss journey. “I can honestly say I never missed a workout in that time,” he tells us. He uses the principles he learned in the gym – discipline, consistency, resilience, doing the hard things, “even when you don’t want to – and applies them to other areas of his life, including his career and relationships. “This has allowed me to be successful in every area of my life,” he says. “I graduated college summa cum laude and completed Penn State Law School toward the top of my class. I have had a very fruitful and rewarding career in sales leadership since 2013. And I am married to my high school sweetheart of 19 years – who also had a weight loss journey of her own at the same time. Our relationship could not be stronger!”

Related: Fitness Expert's $5 a Day Meal Plan for Fat Loss

He Believes Mental and Physical Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Jarred_Curcio7kingcurshatx/Instagram

Jarred believes that mental and physical health go hand-in-hand. “I am a believer that there is an opportunity to get the average person to a state of mental fitness or mental performance,” he says. “This would mean not simply eliminating anxiety or depression, but building skills and abilities to help committed individuals thrive on a day-to-day basis.” His own weight loss journey was the primer for this belief and lifestyle shift.

Now, He Wants to Help Others

Jarred_Curcio8kingcurshatx/Instagram

This is why he is embarking on a career to help others. “I have developed my philosophy and programming continuously over the past 15 years. Now, I feel I have enough of a grasp to provide immense value to others and help them accomplish the same successes that I have,” he says. “I am a believer that learning discipline offers the greatest freedom possible as it instills a sense of agency in a person. I have developed a system for building habits and cultivating discipline that includes physical workouts, but goes far beyond that. My system includes mindfulness practices like meditation and stoic habits like demonstrating gratitude.”

His Top 5 Exercises

Jarred_Curcio5kingcurshatx/Instagram

Jarred’s top 5 exercises are deadlift, squat, kettlebell swings, pullups, and military press. “These exercises are big compound movements that require the use of major muscle groups. These are basic yet critical movements that help build significant muscle and strength, if performed properly,” he says. “The more body parts you move, the more calories you burn. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn. The more weight you move, the more calories you burn. So these exercises will not only make you more muscular and stronger, but they will also burn fat and improve athletic capacity across a range of activities or sports.”

Related: I Lost 60 Pounds With Help From Yoga and These Other Workouts

Here Is His Daily Diet

Grilled top sirloin or cup rump beef meat steak on marble board. Black background. Top viewShutterstock

“I eat an animal based diet, which means I prioritize animal proteins (beef, chicken, eggs, etc.) as a primary factor in my meals,” Jarred explains. The next highest priority in his diet is eating natural healthy fats, “most of which also come from animals, including butter, milk, and Greek or Icelandic yogurt,” he says. “I feel carbs are important but can be easily overeaten. When it comes to carbs, I mostly stick to fruit (almost any fruit will do), white rice, and potatoes.” He also eats vegetables, “but quite sparingly,” he says. “I keep my vegetable consumption to about twice per week,” he also avoids most processed foods, seed oils, and refined sugars. “Whole, organic foods are always going to be the best options.” He warns that “sugar is snuck into so much of the food we eat that we have to be on the lookout.”

His #1 Tip

Jarred_Curcio3Jarred Curcio

“My #1 tip is to find a realistic process (diet and exercise) that works for you, but should also challenge you. No change comes without discomfort,” says Jarred. “Once you find the plan, STICK TO IT NO MATTER WHAT! No excuse should be enough to break from the plan. If you do that, the results are guaranteed. “Once you get the results, you'll never want to go back.”

One Fitness Myth, Busted

Jarred_Curcio9kingcurshatx/Instagram

The biggest fitness myth, according to Jarred? “You cannot spot reduce,’' he says. “For example, some people think if you do a bunch of sit ups, you will get 6-pack abs. But abs are revealed when you lose fat. Losing fat comes from a calorie deficit, and diet is CRITICAL to that. So sit ups can burn calories, and can strengthen ab muscles, but will not get you a 6-pack on their own.”

He Takes Supplements

vitamins ,omega 3,multivitamins, Supplements, vitamins, probiotics, collagen, pills, tabletsShutterstock

Here is Jarred’s list of supplements:

Multivitamin - The classic all-in-one supplement

Omega-3 - Critical for heart health

Desiccated Beef Liver - Alpha shit

ZMA - Zinc and Magnesium before bed for great sleep and recovery

Glutamine - Amino Acid found in red meat. Outstanding for post workout recovery.

Creatine - Super amino acid that helps grow muscle and helps with brain health

BCAAs - Branched chain amino acids are critical to recovery.

Alpha-Jym - Great testosterone booster w/ ashwagandha & fenugreek

Tribulus - Testosterone booster

DHEA - Testosterone booster

Longjack (Tongat Ali) - Testosterone booster and sexual health

Turmeric - Anti-inflammatory

Vitamin B - Metabolism & Energy

Vitamin D - All around immunity and bone health

Spirulina - Blue green algae with tons of micronutrients and health benefits

CLA - Helps with metabolism and body composition (non-stimulant fat burning)

Zinc - Immune support

Glucosamine - Joint health

Potassium - Water regulation

Taurine - Nervous system function

Biotin - Hair, nails, skin

DIM - Balances estrogen naturally

Here Is How He Measures Progress

Jarred_Curcio2Jarred Curcio

Jarred measures his progress by how he feels in the day, his “energy levels, mental clarity, how my body moves at the gym, how I look in the mirror, and how I fit in my clothes,” he says. When he feels bad about his body he takes action and checks his diet to see if he has been taking in more calories lately than typical and adjusts accordingly.

Related: She Dropped 60 Pounds in 3 Months, Here’s How

His Final Piece of Advice? Know Your Why

Jarred_Curcio4Jarred Curcio

His final piece of advice? “Know your ‘WHY,’” he says. “If you know WHY you are starting, it's the key to staying consistent and disciplined.” If you need motivation, remind yourself of your goals, and “visualize and manifest” them. “The way you do one thing is the way you do everything. If your body isn't physically healthy, you can't expect your mind to be healthy. If your mind isn't healthy, you make worse decisions. Worst decisions lead to a worse quality of life. A healthy body is the foundation for a happy life.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Ask yourself: Why do you want to get into shape? By understanding the Why, you are more likely to stay motivated on your health journey.

Dusty_Young4
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 weight and keep it off in 2025? Dusty Young is a weight loss warrior and coach who lost 100 pounds and helped others do the same. The “recovering fat kid” regularly shares tips, tricks, and insights into losing weight naturally and sustainably. In a recent post, he reveals 9 game-changing things he did to lose so much weight healthily. “These changed my life!” he writes in the post. “If you want to lose weight, you need to eat fewer calories than your body burns. Here’s how I lost the weight & have kept it off for 10+ years!”


Less Snacks, Bigger Meals

His first tip is to have fewer snacks and bigger meals. “I tried eating more frequent, smaller meals throughout the day, but it just left me constantly hungry & always thinking about food. Bigger meals don’t,” he explains.

Putting Thought Into Meal

The next thing he did? “Put thought into my meals,” he reveals. “You don’t have to plan and prep everything, but it’s a lot easier to hit your goals if you don’t have to make decisions on the fly.”

RELATED: Coach Reveals 5 Weight Loss Mistakes She Ditched to Lose 100 Pounds

Lifting Weights

Strength training is also key. “Lift weights 2-4x a week,” he writes. “Muscle is your best friend for boosting metabolism and longterm weight-loss & management.”

Consistent Sleep

Rest also plays a big role in weight loss. “Set a consistent bedtime,” he explains. “Getting 7-9 quality hours of sleep increases energy & keeps cravings at bay. Make it easy by setting a non negotiable bed time.”

Eating Nutrient Dense Foods

As for diet, another tip is to eat primarily nutrient-dense foods. “Focus on whole-foods. They give you the biggest bang for your buck. They’re high in nutrients and fiber, which means you’ll feel full, energized, and on track with your goals,” he says.

7,000 to 10,000 Steps a Day

Get your steps in! “Get at least 7,000-10,000 steps a day – You don’t NEED to do a bunch of cardio - just stay active and move throughout the day. Every step adds up!” he says.

RELATED: 51-Year-Old Fitness Coach Shares 7 Habits That Make Her Look 31

Not Drinking Your Calories

“Limit liquid calories,” is his next tip. “Sodas, juices, & fancy coffee drinks are sneaky calorie bombs that don’t fill you up. Stick to water, seltzer, tea, simple coffees, & zero sugar drinks the majority of the time,” he says.

Avoid Extreme Restrictions

Don’t be too strict, he continues. “Avoid extreme restrictions,” he says. “I used to cut out entire food groups, which only led to cravings and bingeing. Everything in moderation is key to staying on track without feeling deprived.”

Amp Up Your Protein Intake

And lastly, eat high protein. “It helps preserve & build muscle, but also keeps you fuller longer,” he says. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW) but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

RELATED: Burn Fat and Build Muscle in 90 Days With These 6 Pro's Hacks

Lastly, Sustainability Is Key

His final message? “Long-term results are achieved through SUSTAINABILITY. If you can’t sustain it, it’s probably not worth doing. Find what works best for YOU and make 2025 the LAST time you have to ‘lose weight,’” he concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

theemilychristensen
Copyright theemilychristensen/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you curious about what to expect after achieving your weight loss goals? You might be surprised what it is like, says one weight loss warrior. Emily Christensen is a social media influencer who lost 60 pounds after undergoing weight loss surgery and adopting a healthy lifestyle. She regularly shares tips and tricks with her followers about how she did it. In a new post, she reveals the truth about being overweight and thin. “Some brutal honesty from who has spent the majority of her life feeling fat and longed to be skinny,” she writes in the Instagram post.

When You Lose Weight, More Problems Surface

The first truth? You might find underlying problems after slimming down. “When you’re over weight that’s the only problem you want to solve. Once you lose the weight you realize how many underlying things are going on that have *actually* been causing issues. I’m talking relationships, spending, parenting,” she says.

Being Skinny Doesn’t Mean You Are Healthy

The second thing she learned? “Being skinny doesn’t mean you’re healthy,” she says. “When I was at my lowest weight I had lost a lot of muscle. Rebuilding that is kind of scary but I know it’ll serve me when I’m a fit grandma.”

Weight Loss Is Mental

Her third truth is that weight loss is mental. “There are a lot of tools out there that can help! But they’re still just tools. I have to talk to myself a LOT to remind myself I didn’t suddenly gain back 60+ pounds,” she writes.

You Might Still Be Obsessed with Your Weight

She goes onto explain that obsession with your weight might not end. “Before I lost weight I was really obsessed with losing weight. Now that I’ve lost weight I have times where I’m really obsessed with keeping it off. Not out of vanity but out of fear. I never want to go back to feeling how I did for so many years,” she writes.

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

Your Loved Ones Might Not Be On Board with Your New Lifestyle

Another truth? “No one cares about your journey as much as you do. Meaning…it’s not anyone’s job to eat what you eat. Or exercise with you. Your spouse/partner may or may not be on board with your new lifestyle. It’s up to you to buy and prepare the right foods and find the time to exercise,” she says.

Being Skinny Won’t Give Your More Self-Worth

Finally, getting thin won’t solve your self-esteem problems. “Being skinny isn’t going to give you more self worth. It might help you love your body more and appreciate what it’s done for you…but ‘skinny’ isn’t an attribute that very many people use when they talk about why they love someone,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Cherisse Kozloski cherisse_rykercoaching
Copyright cherisse_rykercoaching/Instagram

Are you on a high-protein diet for fat loss but can’t seem to lose weight? You could be making a common mistake, according to an expert. Cherisse Kozloski is a nutrition coach and personal trainer who helps her clients lose weight and keep it off. In a new post, she discusses some slip-ups that many seem to be making. Most women eating a high protein diet but not losing fat are making these common mistakes,” she writes. “Are these mistakes stopping your progress?”

Mistake 1: You Aren’t Counting Calories

The first mistake? “Not paying attention to your overall calories,” she reveals. “Eating more protein doesn’t automatically mean fat loss. If you’re not mindful of your portions, you could be consuming more calories than you burn, a surplus is a surplus.”

Solution: Measure or Weigh Your Food

How can you correct this? “Weigh or measure your food at least for a little while so you can get a good idea of what a serving size actually is,” she suggests.

Mistake 2: Choosing Food Labeled “High Protein

The second mistake people make? “Choosing foods labeled as ‘high protein’” she says. “Many foods labeled ‘high protein’ actually aren’t.”

Solution: Calculate Yourself

Her solution? Do your own calculations. “Remember the 10/1 rule for every 100 calories you want to get at least 10 grams of protein to be considered high protein,” she says.

Mistake 3: Skipping Healthy Fats

Mistake three has to do with going too low-fat. “Skipping healthy fats,” she says. “Avoiding fats completely can leave you hungry, mess with your hormones, and make it harder to stick to your diet.”

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

Solution: Eat Healthy Fats

The solution is simple. “Add fats into your diet like avocado, olive oil, and nuts,” she says. “But remember they are calorie dense so be mindful of how much you’re consuming.”

Mistake 4: Eating too Many Processed Foods

The fourth and final mistake? Just because something is high in protein doesn’t mean it’s good for you. “Eating too many processed foods,” is a no-no. “Protein bars and shakes are convenient but often packed with sugar and additives,” she says.

Solution: Eat Whole Food Protein Sources

Instead, stay away from packaged foods and shop the grocery store's perimeter. “Focus on whole-food protein sources like shrimp, boneless chicken thighs, and eggs to nourish your body and support fat loss,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

Dylan Hornof dylanjfit
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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.

Are you just getting started on your weight loss journey and are overwhelmed by all the advice you are getting? According to one expert, there is a simple, foolproof approach. Dylan Hornof is a personal trainer and fitness coach who transformed her body and helps others do the same. In a new social media post, she reveals that a handful of habits were instrumental in her weight loss. “5 things I’ve done to lose 20lbs and keep it off for years,” she writes in the post.

Drinking Less Alcohol

You might consider putting down the bottle if you are drinking your calories. Dylan reveals that drinking less helped her lose more weight. “I worked through my relationship with alcohol - I had to break the habit of drinking multiple days on the weekend,” she said. There is another non-weight-related benefit. “This helped me lose lbs and lower a lot of inflammation in my body and face)” she says.

Walking More

Dylan also recommends walking. “A walk a day (move your body more) it’s that simple. We are not meant to sit all day. Outside, on a treadmill - get your steps in!” she says. How much should you walk for weight loss, according to science? A 2018 study published in 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.

Eating Consistently

It can be tempting to starve yourself to lose weight. However, Dylan points out that you need to fuel your body. “Ate MORE food consistently. Hear me out - when you’re eating 1,200 calories and falling off all the time you’re not going see results. Up your calories and find consistency with your food,” she says.

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

Strength Training with Purpose

Dylan points out that you should focus on quality over quantity in your strength training workout. “I train with purpose. My weight lifting is intentional - I push myself and challenge myself with the weights I use,” she says.

Focusing on Whole Foods

And finally, she cleaned up her diet. “I stopped hitting my macros with whatever food I could fit in. I choose to eat 90% whole foods everyday (I do believe in balance and I am a huge foodie - you CAN fit ‘fun’ foods in) but focusing on more clean foods helped me feel less ‘puffy’.” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.