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She Lost 45 Pounds in Her Garage by Doing These 3 Things

Plus two more habits that helped her achieve her weight loss goals.

Hannah_Hammes2

Do you want to lose a lot of weight without going to the gym or going on an extreme diet? According to most experts, you can. Hannah Hammes is a weight loss coach who creates “quick and effective” workouts for busy women. In a recent Instagram post, she reveals how she shaped up after having two kids – without leaving the house or majorly slashing calories. “Here’s how I lost 45 pounds in my garage without dieting or spending hours exercising,” she writes across the video.


She Felt Like She Would Never Feel “Good” Again

“After having babies, I truly wondered if I’d ever feel ‘good’ again and be happy with my body. Or would I just live with how my body was now because ‘I’m a mom now’

Newsflash – you 100% can feel your best! I actually feel better now than I ever did before kids (and I had been working out regularly for over 7 years then).
Here’s what I did,” she writes in the post.

Strength Training and Walking

The first thing she did was pair strength training with walking. “I got some dumbbells and bands from Walmart, made a space in my garage, and told myself I would strength train for 30-45 at least 3x a week,” she says. “I went for walks on the days when I could but didn’t beat myself up if it didn’t happen. It was the middle of winter when I started, so if it was over 30 degrees, I got outside.”

RELATED: Mom Drops 40 Pounds With Plan That “Still Allows Cheeseburgers”

Prioritizing Protein

She also amped up her protein intake. “I prioritized protein with every meal. If you want to lose fat, you need to be in a calorie deficit, but also, as a breastfeeding mom, I couldn’t afford to affect my supply or to be weak and have no energy or mental energy with my job and kids. Protein is your best friend, ladies! It keeps you fuller longer so you can sustain a healthy caloric deficit and see results. My free guide goes over this more for you,” she writes.

Consistency

And finally, she was committed. “I stayed consistent even when I felt like nothing was happening. Even on the days I felt exhausted, I did something! Even if it was 10 minutes of lifting and stretching. No change ever happens overnight. Give yourself at least 8-12 weeks to start seeing results,” she says.

Sleep

In another post, she reveals more habits that helped her achieve her weight loss goals, and one of them was sleep. “Get at least 6-7hrs of sleep every night (so go to sleep instead of staying up all night scrolling 00),” she says. 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.

RELATED: 58-Year-Old Trainer Reveals 5 Habits to Look Half Her Age

Hydration

Hydration is also key. “Drink your water sis!” she suggests. “At a minimum, half your body weight in oz of water. 80+ oz is good! And add electrolytes!” 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. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

More For You

Molly Corcoran mollycorcoran.fit
Copyright mollycorcoran.fit/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 frustrated that the same weight loss tactics you used in her thirties are failing to work in your forties? It may be time to change your approach. Molly Corcoran is a weight loss warrior and coach who lost a total of 20 pounds after she turned 40. Now, she helps “35+ busy moms optimize their metabolism, build muscle, lose belly fat & find confidence again in peri/menopause,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she reveals three core habits at the center of her weight loss. “I stopped eating clean, ditched the orange theory classes over 40,” she writes, revealing her secret.

High-Intensity Workouts Were Impacting Her Hormones

According to Molly, high-intensity cardio workouts that worked for her when she was younger were not helping her lose weight. “The truth is ladies, the constant cardio workouts Like orange theory did a number to my hormones in peri/menopause,” she writes.

Eating “Clean” Was Also Working Against Her

Another thing that stopped working? “Paired that with trying to eat ‘clean’ so I called it for most of my life. There is no such thing as clean eating and if you’re still trying to eat clean in your 40s+ that’s exactly why you can’t lose the weight,” she continued.

She Made Three Changes

“When it all changed for me was when I left the intense cardio/weight classes and finally got control of my eating habits. Here are the 3 things I focused on that drive results,” she says.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

She Started Tracking Protein and Calories

“I started tracking my protein and calories in @myfitness pal to educate myself on portions and got good at consistently hitting 140-150g protein daily. Also, eating carbs at every meal and getting a calorie deficit goal that was manageable so I stay consistent,” she said.

She Swapped Group Fitness for Progressive Overload Strength Training

“I left group x classes for good and started to shift my focus to progressive overload strength training. 3-4 strength days a week tracking how much I lifted, set, and allowed rest between sets to push in my lifts,” she writes. “Wanna change your body, leave the random workouts with cardio mixed in because that’s not strength training.”

She Started Walking

And third, she started moving more in general. “I started to monitor my daily movement outside of my workouts, focused on hitting 10k steps, and still do to this day 5 years later,” she writes.

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

She Got Serious About Nutrition

She also worked on her nutrition. “Bonus: I got serious about educating myself on adding more to my plate by adding more fruits and veggies to my plate, pairing that with healthy fat, and protein was how I lost the most weight.”

You Need to “Unlearn Everything You Thought Would Work"

“If you finally want to see results in your 40s on up, you need to unlearn everything you thought would work. Have a plan for both nutrition and exercise. I can assure you that the results will come when you get serious about what you put in your mouth!” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Are you trying to get started on your weight loss journey? Doing a few simple things can be exactly what you need to jumpstart the process, claims one woman who is currently in the process of losing big. Ryan Shedrick is a social media influencer who is detailing her 100-pound weight loss on her Instagram account. In a recent post, she revealed the four habits that helped her drop her first 10 pounds. “I’ve lost my first 10 lbs on my journey to losing 100lbs and here are the things that are working!” she writes in the Instagram post.

Just 23 Minutes of Exercise Per Day

Keep your workouts short but consistent, says Ryan in her post. "23 minutes of exercise a day. That's all! I have committed to doing the @theladiesedgeofficial workouts 5 days a week, and while they are kicking my back, they are making me feel so strong and capable again. They are fast, impactful, and fun!" she writes.

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

Sticking to a Low Calorie/High Protein Diet

Next, there are two main things you need to tailor your diet around. "Sticking to a low calorie/ high protein diet and not letting anything else get in my head. This is something I know I can do and maintain because I'm not restricted, and I'm not missing out. Keeping my focus on what I can control and stick to is making a huge difference," she writes.

Celebrating Every Win

Third, don't overlook your victories – even when they are small. "Celebrating every damn win! Celebrating getting through a hard workout. Losing my first 10 lbs. Showing up every day. Becoming more kind to my body. This is all worth celebrating and keeps me in a positive attitude," she says.

RELATED: Lose 25 Pounds in 10 Weeks by Doing These 7 Things

Daily Supplements

Lastly, she claims that her daily supplements are game-changing. "I drink them every single morning, and these things have made a huge impact. Curbing cravings, giving me the boost of energy and drive to get my workout done, keep me from getting sick, and boosts my mood!" she writes.

Self-Love Is Key

In another post, she explains why she is on a weight loss journey. "As a 42-year-old, plus-size woman who is on a journey to losing 100 lbs…. I told myself that THIS TIME, I'm gonna wear the cute clothes NOW. NOW!! I'm done with the idea that I will only be worth wearing cuter workout clothes once I lose 20, 40, 60 lbs," she writes. "I'm worth of that NOW. My journey this year is about working hard… but loving myself every damn step of the way! I hope this finds the women who needed to hear this message today. That YOU ARE WORTHY right now, in this moment! So wear cute clothes, boo!" And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 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.

Do you want to lose a lot of weight without going to the gym or going on an extreme diet? According to most experts, you can. Hannah Hammes is a weight loss coach who creates “quick and effective” workouts for busy women. In a recent Instagram post, she reveals how she shaped up after having two kids – without leaving the house or majorly slashing calories. “Here’s how I lost 45 pounds in my garage without dieting or spending hours exercising,” she writes across the video.


She Felt Like She Would Never Feel “Good” Again

“After having babies, I truly wondered if I’d ever feel ‘good’ again and be happy with my body. Or would I just live with how my body was now because ‘I’m a mom now’

Newsflash – you 100% can feel your best! I actually feel better now than I ever did before kids (and I had been working out regularly for over 7 years then).
Here’s what I did,” she writes in the post.

Strength Training and Walking

The first thing she did was pair strength training with walking. “I got some dumbbells and bands from Walmart, made a space in my garage, and told myself I would strength train for 30-45 at least 3x a week,” she says. “I went for walks on the days when I could but didn’t beat myself up if it didn’t happen. It was the middle of winter when I started, so if it was over 30 degrees, I got outside.”

RELATED: Mom Drops 40 Pounds With Plan That “Still Allows Cheeseburgers”

Prioritizing Protein

She also amped up her protein intake. “I prioritized protein with every meal. If you want to lose fat, you need to be in a calorie deficit, but also, as a breastfeeding mom, I couldn’t afford to affect my supply or to be weak and have no energy or mental energy with my job and kids. Protein is your best friend, ladies! It keeps you fuller longer so you can sustain a healthy caloric deficit and see results. My free guide goes over this more for you,” she writes.

Consistency

And finally, she was committed. “I stayed consistent even when I felt like nothing was happening. Even on the days I felt exhausted, I did something! Even if it was 10 minutes of lifting and stretching. No change ever happens overnight. Give yourself at least 8-12 weeks to start seeing results,” she says.

Sleep

In another post, she reveals more habits that helped her achieve her weight loss goals, and one of them was sleep. “Get at least 6-7hrs of sleep every night (so go to sleep instead of staying up all night scrolling 00),” she says. 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.

RELATED: 58-Year-Old Trainer Reveals 5 Habits to Look Half Her Age

Hydration

Hydration is also key. “Drink your water sis!” she suggests. “At a minimum, half your body weight in oz of water. 80+ oz is good! And add electrolytes!” 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. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 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.

Brenda Lizard is a weight loss influencer who goes by the TikTok handle @brenda.lizard. In two of the many viral videos discussing her massive and rapid weight loss — she lost 40 pounds in just under four months — she reveals a few simple tricks that helped. And, a few of them might surprise you.


1. Brenda Decided to Change Her Lifestyle After Learning She Had Pre-Diabetes

@brenda.lizard

Replying to @evelynn How i lost weight 🙂 Comment if you need clarification or DM me on insta and I’ll respond to you quicker there #gymtok #greenscreenvideo #greenscreen

Brenda prefaces the video by confessing that she is not a professional. “This is just what I did and what worked for me,” she said. She also revealed that she “decided to change” her lifestyle for health reasons, namely after she got a breast reduction and discovered she had pre-diabetes during the blood work. “So obviously I had to make a change for my own health,” she said.

2. First, She Changed Her Diet

ChickenGrill,grilled,bbq,breast,meat,proteinShutterstock

The “biggest thing” for Brenda was changing her diet, because after getting her breast reduction she couldn’t exercise for two months. “I couldn't lift anything over 15 pounds, so it was all my diet,” she said. Instead of going on a “specific diet like keto or whatever” she went on a calorie deficit, “which basically you're counting your calories.” She calculated how much she needed, inputting her age, weight, and height, and then figured out how many calories she would need to cut to lose one pound a week, which came out to 1,670 calories per day. For breakfast she ate overnight oats or an egg spinach omelet. “I love cottage cheese and cottage cheese is what's gotten me through a lot,” she added. For lunch she would eat tuna salad, chicken wraps, and “just regular chicken salads with a side of something.” She still ate out on occasion. “So if I were to go to Wingstop, I would still mess up some wings, but instead of getting regular fries, I'd get sweet potato fries. If I went to In-N-Out, I would still get a double double, but I'd get it lettuce wrapped,” she revealed. “I never felt miserable throughout this whole entire process just because I would eat what I wanted. And at home, I don't necessarily count my calories If I make my food at home, only if I'm going out to eat, that's when I do start counting my calories,” she added.

Related: The 13 Secrets for Building Powerful Legs

3. Second, She Started Doing Cardio

Hikers,Walking,Mountains, outdoors, outside, rural, walking, exerciseShutterstock

Once able to start doing cardio, she started seeing the most weight loss, “and don't think it's extreme cardio,” she said. “I've always been an early bird, so I've always woken up six in the morning to eight in the morning, the latest. And I would go get up, and then I would go on runs, jogs, I take my dog out. We bonded a lot throughout this entire process, and I would go on hikes.” 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.

4. Third, She Joined a Gym and Used the StairMaster

StairMaster, steps, stairs, treadmill,gym, machine, exercise,Shutterstock

She also got a gym membership at LA Fitness, “and I just go there to use a StairMaster,” which she says “is a must.” Recently, the "25-7-2" StairMaster workout went viral, with people boasting about the weight loss benefits. It involves jumping on the stair-climbing machine, setting it to level 7, and climbing for 25 minutes. Does it actually work? "Any new stimulus will burn more calories at first, but your body will always adapt to whatever stimulus you're doing," Katie Kollath, ACE CPT and cofounder of Barpath Fitness, previously told our sister website Eat This, Not That! "So, if you want to continue to burn more calories after a couple of months doing this workout trend, you will either need to increase activity elsewhere or do the StairMaster workouts for longer."

Related: 10 Ways to Eat for Abs

5. And Fourth, She Started Lifting Weights

@brenda.lizard

Replying to @Brenda DM me on insta or comment if you need clarification!!! #gymtok #weightloss

Once cleared by the doctor, she started lifting weights. And, for anyone who is starting to lift, she warns against putting too much emphasis on the numbers on the scale, as “muscles are heavier than fat.” To warm up, she would jog to the gym or go on the treadmill for ten minutes. She would also do more cardio – a little over a mile of walking, jogging, and sprinting – post lifting. Then, she would take a quick water break and “hit up” the StairMaster, her “favorite” workout. “I go on it for 15 minutes. I'd range from level four to six, sometimes seven,” she said. While first “scared” of the dumbbell area, she says she learned how to lift by watching tutorials on her phone or getting help from other people at the gym. “No shame at all. I didn't know what I was doing at first, and there's times that I still don't know what I'm doing, but I just go and I say YOLO, and I watch my little TikTok tutorials on how to do my form and stuff,” she concluded.

💪🔥Body Booster: Incorporating a StairMaster workout into your routine can help you lose weight. Just make sure to continue increasing intensity as time goes on.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

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

Raven_Norwood_rowwithraven4raven.grl/Instagram

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

Raven_Norwood_rowwithraven6raven.grl/Instagram

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.

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 doing everything you think you should do to lose weight but aren’t achieving the desired results? It might be time to look at your habits. Vimal Rajput is a fitness trainer whose mission is to “help people become the fittest version of themselves physically and mentally,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new social media post, she explains she “lost weight so much faster” when she stopped doing these a few things and incorporated other habits into her routine.

She Didn’t Make Drastic Changes

The first thing she didn’t do was make drastic changes. “I didn’t cut out my favourite foods, neglect my social life or drastically slash calories,” she writes.

She Did Give Herself Time to Lose Weight

Something she did do was be patient with herself. “I gave myself plenty of time (6 months) to lose the weight because I wanted to maintain myself,” she says.

She Didn’t View Weight Loss As a Quick Fix

She also had a realistic mindset, looking at her weight loss as long-term rather than something that would happen overnight. “I didn’t view this as a quick fix I viewed it as a lifestyle change.”

She Did Get Into a Calorie Deficit

She also considered the numbers, prioritizing a calorie deficit essential for weight loss. “I maintained a reasonable deficit, which made the process simple and easy,” she says.

She Didn’t Go to Extremes with Exercise

And, while she knows it’s essential to move, she didn’t go to extremes with exercise. “I didn’t go excessive cardio or obsess over hitting 10k steps a day,” she says. “I really wanted to hit those 10k steps to give myself a little boost in the right direction and to encourage myself to get outside but I had a really demanding desk job that didn’t lend well to getting outside.”

She Took the Stress Out

She also tried to stay calm and relaxed, not putting too much pressure on herself. “I took the stress out of that piece which helped the process,” she writes. “And guess what? I still made progress!” She added: “Cutting out stress where possible also aids in weight loss, and way too many of us focus on things that don’t actually matter in the big picture.”

She Didn’t Focus on the Scale

She also tried not to measure success by her weight. “I didn’t focus on the numbers on the scale and focus more so on how I fit in my clothes and looked in the mirror,” she said. “I used the scale as one piece of data but what mattered most to me was how I felt physically and emotionally.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Dr Tony Hampton
I'm an Obesity Doctor and These 6 Natural Methods Match Ozempic's Benefits
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Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you wake up feeling tired, only to struggle with cravings and low energy all day? Your morning routine might be sabotaging your weight loss efforts. Dr. Tony Hampton, a board-certified Family and Obesity Medicine specialist, reveals five science-backed morning habits that can transform your metabolism and help you finally achieve sustainable fat loss. Read on to discover simple changes that could revolutionize your weight loss journey.

1. Hydrate the Right Way

The very first thing you should do when waking up isn't checking your phone or grabbing coffee – it's hydrating your body. "After six to eight hours without fluid, dehydration slows your metabolism, increases hunger hormones, and makes your body cling to fat instead of burning it," Dr. Hampton explains in his post.

Morning dehydration can significantly impact your metabolism. "When you wake up, your body is in a dehydrated state after hours without water," Dr. Hampton points out. This state of dehydration directly affects your body's ability to burn fat efficiently.

But it's not just about drinking plain water. Dr. Hampton recommends adding a pinch of high-quality sea salt or electrolytes to replenish minerals lost overnight and support adrenal function. "If you really want to supercharge fat burning, add a squeeze of lemon for a natural liver detox or a splash of apple cider vinegar to support insulin sensitivity," he suggests.

The benefits of this strategic hydration are immediate. "Within minutes, your metabolism wakes up, digestion improves, and you're less likely to experience cravings and energy crashes later in the day," says Dr. Hampton. He also emphasizes the accessibility of this habit: "What's cool about water is that it's simple, powerful, and completely free."

2. Get Natural Light in Your Eyes

Sunny,Beautiful,Picture,Of,Young,Cheerful,Girl,Holding,Hands,Up, happy, celebrate , morning, sun, sunshine, sunflower, sunset, sunrise8 Morning Habits That Target Stubborn Belly Fat While Boosting EnergyShutterstock

Within the first 30 minutes of waking up, try to expose your eyes to natural sunlight. "Your metabolism is directly tied to your circadian rhythm, the body's internal clock that regulates hormones like cortisol, insulin, and leptin," says Dr. Hampton.

This often-overlooked habit has tremendous impact on fat loss. Dr. Hampton notes, "When your eyes detect natural light, your brain gets a signal to lower melatonin and increase wakefulness hormones, which helps regulate blood sugar, reduce cravings, and optimize energy."

The morning light exposure does more than just wake you up. "It tells your body that it's time to be active, making you more likely to burn fat efficiently throughout the day," Dr. Hampton explains. The time commitment is minimal for significant benefits.

"Even just five to 10 minutes of morning sunlight without sunglasses can improve your metabolic rate, increase focus, and help you sleep better at night, which is critical for fat loss," he advises. For those with limited access to morning sunlight, Dr. Hampton offers an alternative: "If you live in a place where morning sun isn't always available, or you're an early riser like me, using a bright light therapy lamp for a few minutes can have similar benefits. Just make sure that the light has at least 10,000 lux."

3. Front-Load Your Protein

Greek yogurt granola and berry mix.Shutterstock

The Breakfast Mistake Most People Make

One of the biggest morning mistakes is starting your day with carbohydrate-heavy foods. "One of the biggest mistakes people make is starting their day with a carbohydrate heavy meal like grits, oatmeal, cereal, or toast," Dr. Hampton warns. The consequences are immediate and counterproductive to weight loss goals.

"All of that starch, starch, starch will raise your sugar, sugar, sugar. This blood sugar spike causes an insulin surge and leads to mid-morning hunger and, unfortunately, fat storage," explains Dr. Hampton. This pattern sets you up for a day of cravings and energy crashes.

The Protein Solution

Dr. Hampton has a clear alternative: "If you want to lose weight, you need to front load your protein." This simple shift in your breakfast approach can dramatically change your body's fat-burning potential.

"Protein first thing in the morning is the most effective way to control appetite, increase muscle protein synthesis, and trigger thermogenesis, meaning your body burns more calories just digesting it," Dr. Hampton explains. The amount matters, too.

"In my clinic, I recommend my patients get at least 30 grams of protein within the first 90 minutes of waking up," he shares. Getting this much protein doesn't have to be complicated. "This can come from eggs, sausage, bacon, or even a high-fat, low-sugar Greek yogurt with nuts may do the trick for some of you guys," suggests Dr. Hampton.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

How Protein Changes Your Day

The benefits of a protein-rich breakfast extend well beyond the morning. "It stabilizes blood sugar, reduces cravings, and makes you naturally eat fewer calories throughout the day," Dr. Hampton points out. There's also a significant mental benefit.

"Protein increases dopamine levels, helping you feel more focused and motivated, critical to sticking to your weight loss plan," he adds. For those who have struggled with inconsistent results, Dr. Hampton offers encouragement: "If you've been struggling with hunger, fatigue, or constant snacking, this one change could be the key to finally seeing results."

4. Move Before You Eat

Happy young woman enjoying delicious granola with greek yogurt for breakfastShutterstock

Getting some movement before your first meal can significantly boost fat loss. "Fasted movement forces your body to tap into stored fat for energy instead of relying on glucose," says Dr. Hampton. The good news is that this doesn't require a strenuous workout regimen.

"I'm not saying you need to do an intense workout first thing in the morning, but even just a 10 to 15 minute walk, some light stretching, or body weight exercises can make a huge difference," Dr. Hampton reassures. The science behind this approach is compelling.

The Science of Fasted Movement

Dr. Hampton explains the metabolic mechanism at work: "This works because movement in a fasted state increases fat oxidation, the process where your body breaks down fats like triglycerides into smaller molecules like free fatty acids, which can then be used as energy by the body, primarily occurring within the mitochondria of your cells."

This process aligns with your body's natural preferences. "Did you know that your body prefers burning fat as fuel? That's right. Your body prefers burning fat as fuel," Dr. Hampton emphasizes. Beyond immediate fat burning, there are longer-term metabolic benefits.

"Fat oxidation also improves insulin sensitivity, making your metabolism more efficient for the rest of the day," he explains. This creates a positive cycle that supports continued weight loss.

Options for Different Schedules

Dr. Hampton acknowledges that everyone's morning routine and fitness level differ. For those with more time, he suggests: "For those of you who have time in the morning, adding in resistance training or short bursts of high intensity movement like jumping jacks, pushups, or squats can further amplify the fat burning effect."

Even for those with minimal time, there's still a way to benefit. "If you're someone who can't workout in the morning, at least aim to walk five to 10 minutes before breakfast," advises Dr. Hampton. He emphasizes the long-term impact of this simple habit: "The difference it makes in long-term fat loss is incredible."

5. Control Your First Dopamine Hit

Mindfulness,Woman,Breathing,Fresh,Air,happy​Taking Action Against Hidden SugarsShutterstock

The final morning habit focuses on protecting your brain chemistry. "If you can't control your first dopamine hit of the day, you set yourself up for cravings, low energy, and decision fatigue later on," Dr. Hampton cautions.

The Modern Morning Trap

Most people begin their day with activities that create unhealthy dopamine patterns. "Most people start their day by scrolling their phone, checking emails, or consuming highly stimulating content," Dr. Hampton observes. The consequences extend well beyond just the morning hours.

"The problem? This floods the brain with dopamine first thing in the morning, making it harder to resist junk food, emotional eating, and even binge watching TV later on," he explains. This neurological pattern creates a day of struggle against cravings and poor choices.

Building Dopamine Resilience

Instead of starting with high-dopamine activities, Dr. Hampton recommends alternatives that set you up for success. "Instead, you want to start your morning with something that naturally regulates dopamine, like writing in your journal, meditation, reading, or even just sitting in silence with your coffee," he suggests.

These calmer activities have profound benefits for your weight loss journey. "By doing this, you build resilience to cravings, improve focus, and make it easier to stick to your fat loss goals," Dr. Hampton explains. The impact of this mental preparation extends throughout your entire day.

"Think of it this way. If you can win the first hour of your day, you can win the next 23," Dr. Hampton affirms. This approach to dopamine management creates a foundation for better decisions all day long.

6. Start Small for Big Results

Sports woman drinking bottle of water.​HydrateShutterstock

Creating new habits doesn't happen overnight, and Dr. Hampton encourages a gradual approach. "Imagine how different your body would feel if, starting tomorrow morning, you hydrated strategically, got natural light in your eyes, prioritized protein, moved before eating, and controlled your dopamine," he suggests.

The key is to start with manageable changes. "You don't need extreme things to make a big change. You just need to change your habits, one morning at a time," Dr. Hampton advises. This approach prevents the overwhelm that leads many people to abandon their weight loss efforts.

Dr. Hampton recommends beginning with just one habit: "Pick one of these habits and start tomorrow." This incremental approach makes lasting change much more achievable than trying to overhaul your entire routine at once.

7. Working With Your Body, Not Against It

Happy woman in bright dress in rapeseed field. Nature, vacation, relax and lifestyle. Summer landscape.

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The fundamental principle behind these morning habits is cooperation with your body's natural processes. "The more we understand how to work with our bodies instead of against it, the easier fat loss becomes," Dr. Hampton explains.

This perspective shift—from fighting your body to supporting its natural functions—makes weight loss more sustainable. Rather than extreme diets or punishing workout regimens, these habits enhance your body's inherent fat-burning capabilities.

By implementing these science-backed morning routines, you're creating the optimal conditions for your metabolism to function at its best. As Dr. Hampton says, "You just need to change your habits, one morning at a time," and these small, consistent changes can lead to remarkable transformations in your health and appearance.

Sarah Dussault sarahfit
Copyright sarahfit/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 experience a major glow-up this year? Start incorporating some healthy habits now. Sarah Dussault is a fitness and nutrition coach who helps “women 40+ transform how they look & feel,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she reveals seven habits that will help you transform your body and mind. “If I wanted to feel like a smokeshow after 40 in 2025,” she writes. “Here’s what I’d do in order of importance.”

Have Confidence

“First, to feel like a smoke show you need to have confidence. Confidence isn’t about perfection; it’s about owning who you are, flaws and all. When you feel good physically and mentally, your confidence will naturally shine through,” she writes.

Strength Training

to improve your body image “start strength training,” she continues. “Studies have shown that following a strength program boosts self confidence. So if you’re still just doing cardio, this is your memo to start adding in strength! I recommend 3-4x a week.”

Wear Flattering Clothes

Next, “wear clothes that are flattering,” she suggests. “I love to follow creators who share my body type and style. If you are still waiting for your old faves to fit again, it’s time to invest in some new clothes. I also recommend going into a store like Evereve where they help you pick out clothes that actually fit and look good on your body type.”

Prioritize Self-Care by Sleeping

Her next suggestion? Prioritize self-care “especially when it comes to sleep,” she says. “Getting 7-8 hours of sleep is so important for hormone regulation (hello, leptin and ghrelin staying in check to avoid overeating), energy and motivation, reduced stress and improved metabolism.”

Eat Enough Protein

Amp up your protein intake. “Eat 30-40g of protein at every single meal. This helps preserve your muscle, build new muscle, promote satiety, support bone health and balancing blood sugar levels,” she writes.

Get Your Steps in

Tie up your walking shoes and “aim to get 7500-10,000 steps every day,” she writes. “This helps with weight management, bone health, MOOD and improving sleep.”

Track Macros

Finally, “track macros at least 1x/wk,” she suggests. “This is because most of my new clients aren’t eating enough! This allows you to see visually and feel how much food you need for optimization based on your goals. I help my new clients figure out their target macronutrients based on their diet history.”

Remember, You Are Worthy!

Her final message? “You deserve to feel like a smokeshow in 2025. You are worthy of feeling confident in your skin,” she writes.