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

I’m a Celebrity Trainer and These 8 At-Home Exercises Will Get You Fit Without a Gym

Shakira’s personal trainer designed 11 exercises to help get you fit.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Anna_Kaiser
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Just because you don’t have a gym membership or designated home workout space, doesn’t mean you can’t get an effective workout completed. Anna Kaiser, global fitness leader and creator of the popular fitness brand, Anna Kaiser Studios, and personal trainer to stars like Kelly Ripa and Shakira, designed two interval workout circuits that will help shape you up fast.


1. Power Up Workout

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

Her Power Up workout is an interval program consisting of two circuits of four exercises each, which should be completed in three rounds. This is a great HIIT circuit, as it helps to increase fat burn for the next 24-hours, is very quick and effective, elevates your post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) and gives you the most bang for your buck,” she says. “For the first round, spend 30 seconds on each exercise focusing on form and setting up each exercise so you know how to execute it well,” says Kaiser. Take a one-minute break. During the second round of 30 seconds, “push a little more, increasing speed and range of motion,” she suggests. Then, take a 1 min break. For the third round, spend 15 seconds per exercise but “really go for it since you know the moves by this round,” she says.

Related: Top 10 Superfoods Every Man Should Eat for the Best Body

2. 1st Circuit

,Strong,Athletic,Shirtless,Workout, jumping, jacks, exercise, workoutShutterstock

Use both 8 pound and 3 pound weights.

  1. Shoulder Press in right sagittal lunge (8lb weights)
  2. Jumping Jacks (3lb weights)
  3. Hammer Curls in left sagittal lunge (8lb weights)
  4. 8 Power Rows in chair pose w/burpee (8lb weights)

3. 2nd Circuit

Fitness,plank,Mountain,Climber,Exercises,home,fitnessShutterstock

Use both 8 pound and 3 pound weights.

  1. Right Lateral lunge to passe balance (8lb weights)
  2. Standing mountain climbers (3lb weights)
  3. Left Lateral lunge to passe
  4. Plank mountain climbers

Related: I Lost 88 Pounds With These 4 Simple Binge-Busting Tips That Worked

4. How It Works

Anna_Kaiser2annakaiserstudios/Instagram

Anna explains that for both of these circuits,”your body converts the nutrients you consume in your diet to ATP, the fuel your body uses for exercise and is produced either with oxygen using the aerobic pathways or without oxygen, relying on the anaerobic pathways. More intense exercise places a greater demand on the anaerobic pathways during the workout. That will increase the need for oxygen after the workout thereby enhancing the EPOC effect (more calories burned).”

💪🔥Body Booster: These types of weight circuit workouts will burn more calories than traditional cardio due to the EPOC effect.

More For You

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

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

Just because you don’t have a gym membership or designated home workout space, doesn’t mean you can’t get an effective workout completed. Anna Kaiser, global fitness leader and creator of the popular fitness brand, Anna Kaiser Studios, and personal trainer to stars like Kelly Ripa and Shakira, designed two interval workout circuits that will help shape you up fast.


1. Power Up Workout

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

Her Power Up workout is an interval program consisting of two circuits of four exercises each, which should be completed in three rounds. This is a great HIIT circuit, as it helps to increase fat burn for the next 24-hours, is very quick and effective, elevates your post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) and gives you the most bang for your buck,” she says. “For the first round, spend 30 seconds on each exercise focusing on form and setting up each exercise so you know how to execute it well,” says Kaiser. Take a one-minute break. During the second round of 30 seconds, “push a little more, increasing speed and range of motion,” she suggests. Then, take a 1 min break. For the third round, spend 15 seconds per exercise but “really go for it since you know the moves by this round,” she says.

Related: Top 10 Superfoods Every Man Should Eat for the Best Body

2. 1st Circuit

,Strong,Athletic,Shirtless,Workout, jumping, jacks, exercise, workoutShutterstock

Use both 8 pound and 3 pound weights.

  1. Shoulder Press in right sagittal lunge (8lb weights)
  2. Jumping Jacks (3lb weights)
  3. Hammer Curls in left sagittal lunge (8lb weights)
  4. 8 Power Rows in chair pose w/burpee (8lb weights)

3. 2nd Circuit

Fitness,plank,Mountain,Climber,Exercises,home,fitnessShutterstock

Use both 8 pound and 3 pound weights.

  1. Right Lateral lunge to passe balance (8lb weights)
  2. Standing mountain climbers (3lb weights)
  3. Left Lateral lunge to passe
  4. Plank mountain climbers

Related: I Lost 88 Pounds With These 4 Simple Binge-Busting Tips That Worked

4. How It Works

Anna_Kaiser2annakaiserstudios/Instagram

Anna explains that for both of these circuits,”your body converts the nutrients you consume in your diet to ATP, the fuel your body uses for exercise and is produced either with oxygen using the aerobic pathways or without oxygen, relying on the anaerobic pathways. More intense exercise places a greater demand on the anaerobic pathways during the workout. That will increase the need for oxygen after the workout thereby enhancing the EPOC effect (more calories burned).”

💪🔥Body Booster: These types of weight circuit workouts will burn more calories than traditional cardio due to the EPOC effect.

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.

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

No Equipment Needed

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

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

Eat Foods That Make You Happy

Photo of excited beautiful young pretty woman sitting in cafe indoors have a breakfast eating saladShutterstock

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

Related: I Lost 30 Pounds With This Walking Routine

Work Your Upper Body When You Are Unmotivated to Work Out

,Working,Out,Gym,Weights,dumbbellsShutterstock

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

Run More with These 5 Tips

Tired,Runner,Rest,Running,recover,jogging,exerciseShutterstock

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

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

How to Do a Push Up If You Struggle

Shutterstock

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

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

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.

Stacey Roberts is a trainer and fitness influencer with over 828,00 followers on Instagram. She regularly shares her tips and tricks on how to look and feel great, all by doing workouts that don’t involve ever having to leave your home. In a recent video, she demonstrates a “lazy day” upper body workout for those times you simply don’t feel like working out. “Yes, you get to lie down but don’t be fooled - you will build muscle with these exercises. Let’s get strong! Targeting triceps, chest, and back,” she writes in the caption. Here is the exact workout she does – and everything else you need to know about her lifestyle habits.


Here Is the Workout

Stacey_Roberts_fitness_momness1fitness_momness/Instagram

Stacey recommends doing 10 to 12 reps of each exercise and repeating the circuit three times.

  1. Rotation press
  2. Pullover
  3. Skull crusher
  4. Narrow press
  5. Chest fly

Using “Equipment” Around the House

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

No workout equipment, no problem, according to Roberts. She claims that “most people have items around the house that can be used to maximize [at-home workouts] and target different muscle group,” she told Headlines Over Sidelines, suggesting “chairs, stools, benches, steps, counters… there are so many things.” She says you can even use gallon jugs of water, cans of soup, or a container of laundry detergent.

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

Workouts Aren’t “One-Size-Fits-All”

Fitness workout at home. Healthy fit young woman doing triceps dips exercise in the living room.Shutterstock

Roberts reminds that workouts are not one-size-fits-all. “Look for workouts that offer options and modifications so you can make it work for you,” she told Headlines Over Sidelines. “Finding ways to workout that you enjoy is key,” she says. “Something you hate will never be sustainable.”

Invest in Equipment Slowly

Different sports equipment and fitness ball in gymShutterstock

While you don’t have to splurge on expensive workout equipment, Roberts does recommend investing in a few items like resistance bands and dumbbells. “As you’re able to invest in equipment, I think resistance bands are a great tool. I recommend a fabric with grips for the lower body, and latex for the upper body,” she says, adding that “you can use them [resistance bands] in a variety of ways, and they are light and compact which makes them great to travel with.” She also suggests buying a pair of dumbbells. “They can be pricey, but just add a set here and there where you can, to slowly build a collection.”

RELATED: 5 Reasons Why You’re Still Hungry After a Meal

Walking

In one of her posts, Stacey reveals that she walks daily for a good reason. “Walking is easy on the joints and offers numerous benefits both physical and mental,” she says, listing the benefit:

  • Improves cardiovascular health
  • Boosts mood and reduces stress
  • Increases energy levels
  • Can aid in weight loss
  • Strengthens muscles and bones
  • Enhances cognitive function and creativity
  • Lowers risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension

“When I made daily walks a priority I saw big changes in my physical and mental health,” she concluded.

💪🔥Body Booster: Personalize your workouts, and pick exercises you love for a sustainable routine

Slim fitness young woman Athlete girl doing plank exercise outside. Concept training workout crossfit gymnastics cross fit.
Shutterstock
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 hours at the gym or on the treadmill to lose belly fat and get into shape—just 10 minutes can make a huge difference. “Short bursts of activity burn more calories, increase metabolic rate, aaaand improve endurance and strength – all in less time. Simply ramping up your activity for a few minutes, a few times a day, can improve health,” sports medicine specialist Joshua Beer, DO, tells University Hospitals. Here are 12 10-minute workouts to burn fat and get fit.


Bodyweight HIIT Workout

@maiahenryfit

Bodyweight full body HIIT workout- all you need is 10 minutes ❤️‍🔥 at home circuit to get your heart rate up quick and burn those calories! #bodyweightworkout #bodyweighttraining #bodyweightexercises #athomeworkout #athomeworkouts #athomeexercise #tonedbody #tonedbodyworkout #weightloss #fatloss #calorieburn #fatlossworkout #hiitworkout #hiittraining #hiitcircuit #hiitwokout #hiit #viral #trending #gymfyp #fittok #gymtok

This workout from TikToker MaiaHenryFit will get your blood pumping. “Bodyweight full body HIIT workout- all you need is 10 minutes ❤️‍🔥 at home circuit to get your heart rate up quick and burn those calories!” she says.

Pilates Workout

@briannajoye_fitness

this one is for all my girlies who dont feel like standing up to workout today 😂🤍 #pilates #workout

TikToker Brianna Joye Kohn has the perfect 10-minute Pilates workout. “POV—I show you this 10-minute Pilates workout that will tone your core, sculpt your arms, and slim your legs,” she says.

10-minute Cardio

@alexxiusss

10 MINUTE CARDIO - These exercises are simple yet effective. You got this💪🏾 2 rounds: 🔥Beginner: 20 sec. Exercise- 40 sec. rest 🔥Intermediate 30 sec. Exercise- 30 sec. rest 🔥Advanced 45 sec. Exercise- 15 sec. rest #athomeworkout #athomeworkouts #cardio #cardioworkout #athomecardio #athomecardioworkout #fitness #workout #workoutmotivation #weightlossjouney

Try TikToker Alexius Ordaz’s 10-minute cardio workout. “These exercises are simple yet effective. You got this💪🏾 ✨,” she says.

Postpartum Workout

@getmomstrong

Hard time sneaking in a workout? Try this! 3 rounds. Generally sate and beneficial for moms with diastasis recti and prolapse. #quickworkout #morningworkout #10minuteworkout #bodyweightworkouts

TikToker Ashley (getmomstrong) has the perfect short workout for moms. “Hard time sneaking in a workout? Try this! 3 rounds. Generally, sate and beneficial for moms with diastasis recti and prolapse,” she says.

Ab Workout

@maiahenryfit

My go to ab workout to do at home that only takes 10 minutes and will give you a strong core/defined abs✨ reminder that abs are made in gym but will only be visible if you have a healthy diet paired! #abworkout #abworkouts #abworkoutchallenge #athomeabworkout #athomeabs #totalabs #coreworkout #sixpack #sixpackabs #abexercises #abexercise #fitness #gym #workout #flatstomach #flatstomachworkout #beginnerabs #abworkoutathome #abworkoutforgirls #beginnerabs #gymmotivation #motivation

MaiaHenryFit also has a 10-minute ab workout. “My go to ab workout to do at home that only takes 10 minutes and will give you a strong core/defined abs✨ reminder that abs are made in gym but will only be visible if you have a healthy diet paired!” she says.

RELATED: 10 Foods to Avoid That Cause Inflammation

Walking Workout

@petragenco

Get your steps in at home with this quick 10 minute beginner walking workout 💃🏽 #walk #walkingworkout #weightloss #beginner #fun #exercise #exerciseathome

TikToker Petra Genco has a great walking workout to burn fat. “Get your steps in at home with this quick 10 minute beginner walking workout 💃🏽,” she says. All you need are sneakers!

No Gym Needed Workout

@marralpn

This is For my girlies that don’t want to go to the gym💪🏾 Do each workout for 30 seconds on 15 seconds off for 5 rounds! #plussizeworkout #athomeworkout #beginnerworkout

Try TikToker Marralpn’s 10-minute workout designed to be accessible for people of any weight. “This is For my girlies that don’t want to go to the gym💪🏾 Do each workout for 30 seconds on 15 seconds off for 5 rounds!” she says.

Total Body Strength Training

@livelygirlfitness

10 minute total body workout 💪🏽 - Weighted march with dumbbell extended in front (1 minute) - Deadlift into upright row (1 minute) - Elevated lateral lunge (1 minute per side) - Iso bicep curl (1 minute per side) - Front raise + lateral raise (1 minute) - Wood chop (1 minute per side) - Sumo squat + hammer curl (1 minute) #totalbodyworkout

TikToker Rachel (livelygirlfitness) is sharing her total body strength training workout. Moves include weighted march with dumbbell extended in front and deadlift into upright row.

Wall Workout

@petragenco

Get your steps in at home with this quick 10 minute beginner walking workout 💃🏽 #walk #walkingworkout #weightloss #beginner #fun #exercise #exerciseathome

This wall workout from TikToker Lisa Morales Duke requires no equipment and will get those calories burned. “This was intense 🥵🔥🙌🏼 try it!” she says.

RELATED: Lose Abdominal Fat in 60 Days with the DASH Diet

Plank Workout

@maiahenryfit

Full body plank 10 minute challenge❤️‍🔥 #transformation #tranformationchallenge #fullbodyworkout #fullbodyexercise #fullbodyexercises #athomeworkout #athomeworkouts #athomeworkoutvideos #workoutathome #medicineball #tonedarms #coreworkouts #workoutchallenge #30daychallenge #30dayworkoutchallange #fitnessmotivation #athomeworkouts #fullbodytone #hiitworkout #hiitcardio #hiittraining #gymtok #viral #trending #fittok #gymtok #abworkout #flatstomach #flatstomachworkout

This plank workout from MaiaHenryFit will make you feel the burn in a very short amount of time! All you need is a good yoga mat. “Full body plank 10 minute challenge❤️‍,” she says.

Stairmaster Cardio Routine

@mdjfitness

10 MINUTE CARDIO ROUTINE!🔥✨ #gymworkout #cardioworkout #stairmaster

10 minutes is all you need for this stairmaster cardio workout from TikToker MDJFitness. “You’re gonna love it💘,” she says.

Couch Abs Workout

@ssanar.wellness

No matter how busy you are, everyone has 10 minutes! Save this and get it done💪 #homeworkoutsforwomen #coreroutine #fitness #fyp

Try this 10-minute ab workout from TikToker ssanar.wellness. “No matter how busy you are, everyone has 10 minutes! Save this and get it done💪,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

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

Beca Michie (@becamichie) is a model and fitness influencer who shares about everything from makeup tutorials to diet and fitness tips. In one of their many viral videos they showed off their tiny waistline and flat abs in their workout clothes, revealing the ab workout that keeps their midsection small. “Hi beautiful human beings. It's snowing outside today, so I'm going to show you guys my at-home routine,” the influencer says. The Body Network also consulted Kendra Gamble, HIT Fitness Training, Huntingdon Valley, PA, NPTI Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritional Consultant to weigh in the workout.


Planks

@becamichie

Replying to @essencewanderingspirit 🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️my updated quick home ab workout routine!🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️ #abworkouts #abroutine #modelworkout #workoutroutine

Their routine starts with a 60-second plank. “Make sure your butt is down, your back is straight, and your core is tight,” she says. She follows that up with side planks, doing 60 seconds on each side. “I don’t recommend the average person to do a minute plank and then a minute each of side planks back to back,” says Gamble. “That’s something that needs to be worked up to because planks are difficult.”

Toe Taps, Crunches, Cherry Pickers

,Athletic,Asian,Woman,Abs,Crunches,exercise,workout,homeShutterstock

Next, they do 20 toe taps. “That’s how you get the upper abs,” they tell their followers. Next up, 10 “slow” shoulder taps. They then do 20 reach-between crunches, “another 10 shoulder taps,” 40 cherry pickers, and “another 10 shoulder taps.” They add: “I just make sure I do three sets during the whole routine, but you can put them in or incorporate them at any point.” In case you have never heard of cherry pickers, Gamble maintains they are the same thing as Russian twists.

Related: Want to Lose Stubborn Belly Fat Once For All? Stop Making These Common Mistakes

Spider Walks

Beca_Michie_becamichie5becamichie/TikTok

Their workout isn’t done yet. Spider walks are next. “Try to do 20 on each side for spiders. You're just trying to get your feet next to your hands. These are really effective. Oh my God,” they exclaim. Gamble points out that these are “more of a full body stretch and less of a core workout.”

Mermaids, AKA Side Crunches

Beca_Michie_becamichie6becamichie/TikTok

Their last exercise is a Pilates-inspired move, mermaids. “These ones you guys know are my favorites. This is how you get the two abs in the lower stomach that are really, really hard to get,” they say. (Mermaids are actually just side crunches, says Gamble.

Related: I Lost 40 Pounds Eating Rice, and Here Is How You Can Too

An Expert Says: This Is Not a Beginners Workout!

Beca_Michie_becamichie7becamichie/Instagram

“Overall I think this is a decent at home core routine that you can do if you don’t have time or access to the gym, but I think the volume is a bit much especially for a beginner.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Be careful before trying a workout that you find online, especially if you are a beginner. Attempting workouts outside of your fitness level could result in injury.

lauren simpson
Copyright laurensimpson/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 almost one pound weekly for 8 weeks? It’s doable, without having to make significant changes, according to one fitness pro. Lauren Simpson is a fitness trainer and influencer with over 1.8 million Instagram followers. In a new social media post, she reveals exactly how she is achieving her goal of losing 7 pounds in the next 8 weeks. “Here’s exactly what I’ll be doing,” she writes.

Get Into a Calorie Deficit

The first topic to tackle is nutrition. She plans on consuming 1,650 calories and 132g protein per day. “I definitely embraced the foods over the festive season, so I'm looking forward to tidying my diet up now. 80% whole foods/ 20% soul foods. Tracking my intake so I keep accountable & have more data to then be able to make changes,” she writes. “I’m excited to be entering my first structured calorie deficit phase since having a baby!”

Strength Train

Next, she will be doing strength training workouts. “Aiming for 3-5 days a week weights training. Mum life means being able to adjust & be okay that things aren’t going to be 100% to plan. May introduce cardio later…will see how my body responds,” she says.

Walk

And you will also find her walking. Her daily step goal is 6,000. However, many experts recommend 10,000 for weight loss. A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure and fewer strokes.

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

She Lifts Heavy Weights

In an interview with Simply Shredded, Lauren revealed she is “passionate” about the gym. “That’s when I decided to dedicate more time to getting stronger and developing my overall physique and I made the switch from being a ‘cardio bunny’ to lifting heavy weights! During that time, I would go on social media to look at girls who competed in Fitness competitions,” she said.

She Does Minimal Cardio

“A workout routine focusing primarily on weight training with minimal to no cardio works best for me. My style of training is a cross between powerlifting and bodybuilding. I am an ectomorph body type and I find it quite hard to maintain muscle mass. Lifting heavy has really helped to stimulate my overall muscle growth, particularly with my lower body,” she added to the publication

She Counts Macros

Lauren elaborated on her diet to Simply Shredded. “I follow a blended approach between macros and clean eating,” says Lauren. “I know my exact macros and I have a clean meal plan to hit these macros. When planning my meals, I also keep things like nutrient timing in mind too especially around my workouts.”

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

Here is what Lauren eats in a day

  • Meal 1: 5 ounces Egg Whites, 3 ounces Oats and 1 tablespoon Honey
  • Meal 2: 1 scoop Protein and 1 cup Blueberries
  • Meal 3: 3 ½ ounces Barramundi and 9 ounces Sweet Potato
  • Meal 4: 2 ½ ounces Chicken Breast, 5 ounces Mixed Vegetables and 1 ½ ounces Walnuts
  • Meal 5: 3 ½ ounces Turkey Mince, 3 ½ ounces Pumpkin, ¼ cup Baby Spinach Leaves and 2 ounces Avocado
  • Meal 6: 1 scoop Protein and ¼ cup Almonds.

She Keeps No Sweets in the House

“Sushi and sweet potato fries are my current obsession! I often crave sweet things, so to handle those cravings, I simply do not keep any sweets in the house! (Laughs) I remove all temptations and I save the sweets for when I go out on a ‘cheat night,’” says Lauren. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Young caucasian blonde woman holding board with raw meat celebrating crazy and amazed for success with open eyes screaming excited. Protein , beef, meat
Shutterstock
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 experiencing unexplained fatigue, brittle nails, or slow-healing wounds? Your body might be waving red flags about protein deficiency. Dr. Jin W. Sung, a prominent health expert with nearly 500,000 YouTube subscribers, reveals seven critical signs that could indicate you're not getting enough protein. Understanding these signals could be the key to unlocking better health, stronger immunity, and improved overall wellness. Read on to discover if your body is trying to tell you something important.

The Hidden Language of Protein Deficiency: 7 Warning Signs

Raw chicken breast sliced or cut pieces on wooden cutting board with herbs and spices on dark slate, stone, concrete background. Raw chicken meat. Top view with copy space. Mock up.Shutterstock

"Most people don't realize how many different ways their body signals protein deficiency," says Dr. Sung. These seven key signs can help you identify if you're getting enough protein in your diet. Pay attention if you experience any of these symptoms, especially in combination.

Sign #1: Struggling to Build or Maintain Muscle

Strong sporty fit woman in yellow tank top flexing bicep muscle over gray studio background.Shutterstock

"Muscle loss or inability to gain muscle despite working out is a major red flag," warns Dr. Sung. If you're hitting the gym regularly but not seeing results, or noticing muscle weakness despite regular activity, your protein intake might be insufficient. For optimal muscle health, Dr. Sung recommends 1.2 to 1.4 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, with athletes needing up to 2 grams per kilogram.

Sign #2: Brittle Hair and Weak Nails

Millennial girl with hair loss problem looking in mirror at homeShutterstock

Notice your hair breaking easily or nails becoming increasingly brittle? Dr. Sung explains that these changes often signal protein deficiency, as hair and nails are primarily made of protein. Regular monitoring of your protein intake is crucial for maintaining strong, healthy hair and nails.

Sign #3: Slow-Healing Wounds

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"When you get a cut and it doesn't heal well or in the expected time frame, that's a clear sign," Dr. Sung notes. Protein plays a crucial role in tissue repair and wound healing. If small cuts or bruises take longer than usual to heal, your body might need more protein to support its repair processes.

Sign #4: Weakened Immune System

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"These people will be more prone to infection or become currently sick," Dr. Sung explains about protein-deficient individuals. If you're catching every cold that comes around or infections seem to linger, your immune system might be struggling due to inadequate protein intake.

Sign #5: Sleep Issues and Mood Changes

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Experiencing anxiety, depression, or insomnia? According to Dr. Sung, these could be unexpected signs of protein deficiency. Studies show that protein is essential for producing neurotransmitters that regulate mood and sleep patterns.

Sign #6: Bone Health Concerns

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"People don't realize it's not just calcium and minerals in the bone. There's protein amino acids too," Dr. Sung emphasizes. If you're concerned about bone density or have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, increasing your protein intake might be crucial for maintaining bone health.

Sign #7: Constant Hunger and Cravings

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While not directly quoted by Dr. Sung, research shows that inadequate protein intake can lead to increased hunger and cravings. Dr. Sung's recommended protein intake of 1.2 to 1.4 grams per kilogram of body weight can help maintain satiety and reduce unnecessary snacking.

Understanding Your Protein Needs

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Dr. Sung breaks down the numbers clearly: "A 150-pound person needs at least 81.6 to 95.2 grams of protein per day for optimal health." For those with health challenges, he recommends increasing intake to 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight, while athletes might need up to 2 grams per kilogram.

How to Check for Protein Deficiency

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"Simple tests like CBC with CHE can show you if you have protein deficiencies," explains Dr. Sung. Key markers include BUN (should be 10-16), globulin (2.4-2.8), and hemoglobin levels. If you're experiencing any of the seven signs, consider asking your healthcare provider about these tests.

Solutions for Better Protein Absorption

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Dr. Sung emphasizes that it's not just about eating more protein – it's about proper absorption too. "If you have hypochlorhydria or low stomach acid issues, you definitely want to increase hydrochloric acid along with some digestive enzymes to break down your protein appropriately," he advises. Consider protein-rich diets like ketogenic, paleo, or carefully planned vegetarian diets, depending on your specific needs and restrictions. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

keith ozment fit coaching
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Do you want to lose weight but aren’t sure what to eat for breakfast? Keith Ozment is a fitness and weight loss coach specializing in helping people over 30 “repair metabolism, build muscle & burn fat!” he writes in his Instagram bio. In a new social media post, he unveils a handful of breakfast ideas to jumpstart your weight loss. “5 high protein breakfast ideas to eat when you want to shed fat & build muscle,” he writes on Instagram. “🔥MELT BODY FAT🔥These are some of my favorite breakfast options I use to shed body fat and build muscle!” he continues. “When it comes to losing weight and building muscle, it’s crucial you are in an efficient calorie deficit and consuming adequate protein.”

Greek Yogurt Cereal Bowl

Ingredients:

  • 300-400g nonfat Greek yogurt (FAGE brand)
  • 1/4 cup berries
  • 1 cup Premier or Ghost protein cereal.

Macros:

  • Calories: ~400
  • Protein: ~50g
  • Carbs: ~30g
  • Fat: ~5g.

Egg & Cheese McMuffin

Ingredients:

  • 1 Thomas English muffin
  • 1 whole egg + 2 egg whites
  • 1 slice fat-free cheese
  • Optional: 1-3 slices of Canadian bacon

Macros:

  • Calories: ~350-400
  • Protein: ~35-40g
  • Carbs: ~30g
  • Fat: ~10g.

Avocado Toast and Berries with Honey

Ingredients:

  • 1 slice high-protein bread @dohjoybread
  • 1/4 avocado
  • 3 large egg whites + 1 whole egg.
  • 1/4 cup mixed berries
  • 1 tsp honey

Macros:

  • Calories: ~400
  • Protein: ~35g
  • Carbs: ~27g
  • Fat: ~14g.

Breakfast Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop of whey protein

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

• 1/2 frozen banana

• 1 tbsp peanut butter

• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond or Fairlife milk

Macros:

• Calories: ~400

• Protein: ~40g

• Carbs: ~22g

• Fat: ~12g.

Overnight Oats

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1 scoop whey protein
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tbsp peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt

Macros:

  • • Calories: ~450
  • • Protein: ~39g
  • • Carbs: ~33g
  • • Fat: ~10g.

He Recommends the 40-30-20 Method, First Starting Your Day with 40 Grams Protein

In another post, he touts the benefits of the 40-30-20 Method. “Start your day with 40g of protein. A breakfast smoothie with protein powder, berries, and almond milk or overnight oats with Greek yogurt and protein powder are great options,” he writes. 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.

Next, Walk for 30 Minutes

“Walk for 30 minutes daily. Split it into two 15-minute sessions if needed. Walking boosts metabolism, reduces stress, and aids fat loss,” he says. A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Finally, Lift Weights for 20 Minutes

“Dedicate 20 minutes to weightlifting 3-4 days a week,” he adds. According to the Mayo Clinic, 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.

RELATED:I'm 50+ and These 7 Fat-Blasting Habits Keep Me in the Best Shape of My Life

Here Is the Workout Split He Recommends

He goes on to reveal a simple 4-day split:

Day 1: Upper Body Push

  1. • Push-Ups or Chest Press (3x12)
  2. • Dumbbell Shoulder Press (3x10-12)
  3. • Tricep Dips or Overhead Extensions (3x12)

Day 2: Lower Body

  1. • Goblet Squats (3x12)
  2. • Romanian Deadlifts (3x10-12)
  3. • Glute Bridges or Step-Ups (3x12/leg)

Day 3: Upper Body Pull

  1. • Bent-Over Rows (3x12)
  2. • Pull-Ups or Lat Pulldown (3x10-12)
  3. • Bicep Curls (3x12)

Day 4: Full Body + Core

  1. • Deadlifts (3x12)
  2. • Dumbbell Clean and Press (3x10)
  3. • Plank Holds (3x30-60 sec).

And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.