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Simple Cardio Routines for Weight Loss in 60 Days

Lose weight and get fit with these exercises.

FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
Expert-Recommended

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

Happy woman, friends and running in forest for workout, training or outdoor cardio exercise together. Active female person, athlete or runners smile for sports run, sprint or race in nature fitness
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FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
Expert-Recommended

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

Regular cardio sessions have benefits beyond just weight loss—but the fat-burning is a nice bonus! “No matter your age, weight or athletic ability, aerobic activity is good for you. Aerobic activity has many health benefits. As your body adapts to regular aerobic exercise, you'll get stronger and fitter.” Here are 10 simple cardio routines to kickstart your weight loss and improve your health and fitness.


Walking On An Incline

Beautiful woman traveler climbs uphill with a dog on a background of mountain views. She is with a backpack and in red clothes.Shutterstock

Walking in an incline is a great low-impact way to get a good cardio workout. “Given the added intensity of an incline, your heart rate will spike more quickly than at a level surface,” personal trainer Chance Ruggeroli tells Texas Health. “That’s why I like to use inclines within the general warm-up phase of a training session when we’re trying to reach a specific heart rate quickly. However, walking at an incline can be a great exercise on its own. It is an excellent substitute for those recovering from injury, trying to reduce the impact on their joints, or to get an efficient workout within a small window of time.”

Swimming

Female swimming front crawl.Shutterstock

Swimming is a great low-impact cardio exercise that burns hundreds of calories and is actually fun. “Swimming provides an array of specific benefits such as improved cardiovascular and respiratory fitness, improved muscle strength and endurance, improved lean body mass, lower risk of traumatic injuries such as occurs during high-impact activities, and improved mental health and well-being," Mitch Lomax, a pulmonologist and exercise physiologist at the University of Portsmouth, tells National Geographic.

Skipping Rope

Fitness woman jumping rope in cityShutterstock

Incorporate jump rope exercises into your weight loss routine. “Jumping rope is great cardiovascular exercise,” exercise physiologist Katie Lawton, MEd, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “It can get your heart rate up. You can use it to complement a strength training program.”

Burpees

Horizontal wide shot of sporty young man and woman exercising in morning in loft living room at homeShutterstock

Burpees are hugely beneficial when it comes to weight loss. “The combination of strength training and cardiovascular exercise in a single movement increases your metabolism, helping you burn more calories during and after your workout,” says the ASFA. “This makes burpees an excellent addition to any weight loss program or workout routine focused on reducing body fat.”

Jump Squats

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

Jump squats are a great cardio plyometric exercise. “Squat jumps are considered a compound movement because multiple joints (ankles, knee, hips) and multiple muscle groups (quadriceps, hamstrings, abdominals, transverse abdominis, hip flexors, erector spinae) are involved,” Chris Gagliardi, ACE- and NASM-certified personal trainer, tells Nike.

Jumping Jacks

fitness, sport, people, exercising and lifestyle concept - happy man and woman doing jumping jack or star jump exercise outdoorsShutterstock

Jumping jacks are effective and can be done anywhere. “Jumping jacks can specifically improve aerobic capacity, decrease resting heart rate and blood pressure, decrease risk of cardiovascular disease, improve metabolism, and help to maintain a healthy weight,” Clara Baini, DPT, tells Nike.

Riding a Bike

Mature African American Couple On Cycle Ride In CountrysideShutterstock

Riding an outdoors bike is another fun, low-impact way to do cardio. “Cycling is one of the healthiest and most low-impact forms of exercise - meaning it causes less strain and injuries than most other workouts,” says the University of Montana. “So it's a hobby you can continue to enjoy throughout your long life. And, unlike other forms of exercise, you won't dread doing it.”

Regular Walking

Two women in their 30s talking a walk or jog together in the outdoors.Shutterstock

Just a simple walk or hike is one of the best exercises for weight loss, providing you keep up a brisk pace. “Walking has been essential to human health and survival, from the hunter-gatherer tradition to working on farms. But we’ve been living a sedentary lifestyle the past 100 years, and it’s led to higher rates of heart disease, stroke, heart attacks, high blood pressure or hypertension, and high cholesterol,” cardiologist Hicham Skali, MD, MSc, tells Mass General Brigham. “Walking is one of the necessary functions of our bodies, and it can help prevent those conditions. It comes naturally, and it’s just as important to survival now as it was 100 years ago.”

Running

Woman running holding bottle of water in autumn field at sunset. Healthy lifestyle concept. Active sportive peopleShutterstock

Running is a great way to work out for weight loss. “If burning calories is your main goal, consider running or cycling over walking,” says Corewell Health. “The faster you go and the harder you work, the more calories you’ll burn per hour. That said, if you’re just beginning or you have health conditions that make running or cycling difficult, start with walking and increase the time you spend exercising and your speed as you get stronger.”

HIIT Workouts

Beautiful women doing a cardio HIIT routine and squatting. Three fit women in sportswear working out and doing squats in the gymShutterstock

HIIT workouts offer big benefits in a short amount of time. “Try a high-intensity interval training workout and enjoy a great workout with similar benefits as a standard aerobic workout in less time,” says the Mayo Clinic. “In interval training, you alternate between short periods of intense activity and longer periods of less intense activity.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

More For You

Happy woman, friends and running in forest for workout, training or outdoor cardio exercise together. Active female person, athlete or runners smile for sports run, sprint or race in nature fitness
Shutterstock
FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
Expert-Recommended

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

Regular cardio sessions have benefits beyond just weight loss—but the fat-burning is a nice bonus! “No matter your age, weight or athletic ability, aerobic activity is good for you. Aerobic activity has many health benefits. As your body adapts to regular aerobic exercise, you'll get stronger and fitter.” Here are 10 simple cardio routines to kickstart your weight loss and improve your health and fitness.


Walking On An Incline

Beautiful woman traveler climbs uphill with a dog on a background of mountain views. She is with a backpack and in red clothes.Shutterstock

Walking in an incline is a great low-impact way to get a good cardio workout. “Given the added intensity of an incline, your heart rate will spike more quickly than at a level surface,” personal trainer Chance Ruggeroli tells Texas Health. “That’s why I like to use inclines within the general warm-up phase of a training session when we’re trying to reach a specific heart rate quickly. However, walking at an incline can be a great exercise on its own. It is an excellent substitute for those recovering from injury, trying to reduce the impact on their joints, or to get an efficient workout within a small window of time.”

Swimming

Female swimming front crawl.Shutterstock

Swimming is a great low-impact cardio exercise that burns hundreds of calories and is actually fun. “Swimming provides an array of specific benefits such as improved cardiovascular and respiratory fitness, improved muscle strength and endurance, improved lean body mass, lower risk of traumatic injuries such as occurs during high-impact activities, and improved mental health and well-being," Mitch Lomax, a pulmonologist and exercise physiologist at the University of Portsmouth, tells National Geographic.

Skipping Rope

Fitness woman jumping rope in cityShutterstock

Incorporate jump rope exercises into your weight loss routine. “Jumping rope is great cardiovascular exercise,” exercise physiologist Katie Lawton, MEd, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “It can get your heart rate up. You can use it to complement a strength training program.”

Burpees

Horizontal wide shot of sporty young man and woman exercising in morning in loft living room at homeShutterstock

Burpees are hugely beneficial when it comes to weight loss. “The combination of strength training and cardiovascular exercise in a single movement increases your metabolism, helping you burn more calories during and after your workout,” says the ASFA. “This makes burpees an excellent addition to any weight loss program or workout routine focused on reducing body fat.”

Jump Squats

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

Jump squats are a great cardio plyometric exercise. “Squat jumps are considered a compound movement because multiple joints (ankles, knee, hips) and multiple muscle groups (quadriceps, hamstrings, abdominals, transverse abdominis, hip flexors, erector spinae) are involved,” Chris Gagliardi, ACE- and NASM-certified personal trainer, tells Nike.

Jumping Jacks

fitness, sport, people, exercising and lifestyle concept - happy man and woman doing jumping jack or star jump exercise outdoorsShutterstock

Jumping jacks are effective and can be done anywhere. “Jumping jacks can specifically improve aerobic capacity, decrease resting heart rate and blood pressure, decrease risk of cardiovascular disease, improve metabolism, and help to maintain a healthy weight,” Clara Baini, DPT, tells Nike.

Riding a Bike

Mature African American Couple On Cycle Ride In CountrysideShutterstock

Riding an outdoors bike is another fun, low-impact way to do cardio. “Cycling is one of the healthiest and most low-impact forms of exercise - meaning it causes less strain and injuries than most other workouts,” says the University of Montana. “So it's a hobby you can continue to enjoy throughout your long life. And, unlike other forms of exercise, you won't dread doing it.”

Regular Walking

Two women in their 30s talking a walk or jog together in the outdoors.Shutterstock

Just a simple walk or hike is one of the best exercises for weight loss, providing you keep up a brisk pace. “Walking has been essential to human health and survival, from the hunter-gatherer tradition to working on farms. But we’ve been living a sedentary lifestyle the past 100 years, and it’s led to higher rates of heart disease, stroke, heart attacks, high blood pressure or hypertension, and high cholesterol,” cardiologist Hicham Skali, MD, MSc, tells Mass General Brigham. “Walking is one of the necessary functions of our bodies, and it can help prevent those conditions. It comes naturally, and it’s just as important to survival now as it was 100 years ago.”

Running

Woman running holding bottle of water in autumn field at sunset. Healthy lifestyle concept. Active sportive peopleShutterstock

Running is a great way to work out for weight loss. “If burning calories is your main goal, consider running or cycling over walking,” says Corewell Health. “The faster you go and the harder you work, the more calories you’ll burn per hour. That said, if you’re just beginning or you have health conditions that make running or cycling difficult, start with walking and increase the time you spend exercising and your speed as you get stronger.”

HIIT Workouts

Beautiful women doing a cardio HIIT routine and squatting. Three fit women in sportswear working out and doing squats in the gymShutterstock

HIIT workouts offer big benefits in a short amount of time. “Try a high-intensity interval training workout and enjoy a great workout with similar benefits as a standard aerobic workout in less time,” says the Mayo Clinic. “In interval training, you alternate between short periods of intense activity and longer periods of less intense activity.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Do you want to lose weight fast without running? Mahtab Ekay is a fat loss coach and social media influencer who lost 20 pounds in 3 months. In a recent Instagram post, she revealed her hack for losing weight fast, which doesn’t involve pounding the pavement. “The cardio trick I used to lose 20 pounds in 3 months without running,” she writes across the Instagram Reel.


You Need to Be in a Calorie Deficit

“I know you want to hear about some secret workout routine. But the truth is, there’s NO special cardio that will ‘cause’ weight loss,” she writes in the post. “If you’re serious about losing weight, start with the one thing that’s key to success: being in a calorie deficit.”

In Fact, 80 Percent of Weight Loss Comes From Nutrition, She Says

Mahtab maintains that diet is the leading factor in weight loss success. “80% of weight loss comes from nutrition. The best thing you can do for the other 20%, in addition to strength training, is walking,” she explains.

Walking Burns 100 Calories in 30 Minutes

“Walking can burn approximately 100 calories in 30 minutes at a moderate pace. By walking consistently, these calories add up over time, contributing to your overall calorie deficit,” she points out. “And that’s exactly what helped me lose 20 pounds in less than three months.”

She recommends keeping track of your steps. “First, check your average daily steps in your phone’s health app. This is your starting point,” she says.

Increase Your Weekly Steps

Then, progress toward a step goal. “Gradually increase your average weekly steps. If you’re currently taking 5,000 steps daily, aim to add 1,000 steps in the next week,” she says.

And, continue. “Keep increasing by 1,000 steps each week until you consistently hit 8,000-12,000 steps per day,” she recommends.

RELATED:10 Foods That I Will Never Eat Again After Losing 120 Pounds

How to Increase Your Daily Steps

She also offers “some easy, quick ways to increase your daily steps.”

  • Take the Stairs: Skip the elevator or escalator for an easy way to add more steps.
  • Park Further Away: Choose a parking spot farther from your destination to get extra steps in.
  • Walk During Breaks: Use your breaks to take short walks and boost your step count.
  • Walk and Talk: Pace around while talking on the phone to stay active.
  • Use the Restroom on Another Floor: Opt for a restroom on a different floor for added steps.
  • Set a Step Goal Reminder: Use a fitness tracker or app to remind you to move.
  • Walk During TV Time: Walk in place or do laps during your favorite shows.
  • Take a Post-Meal Walk: Walk around the neighborhood after meals to aid digestion and add steps.
  • Use a Standing Desk: Stand and move more frequently throughout the day.

Other Benefits of Cardio

“Cardio has many benefits for heart health, overall fitness, and mental well-being. If you enjoy it or are doing it for those reasons, go for it! You just don’t need it to lose your first 10-20lbs,” she concludes.

There Are Lots of Benefits to Walking

Going for a daily walk can be a game changer for your overall health. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

RELATED:Perfect Your Posture in 100 Seconds With This Simple “Titanic” Exercise

Science Has Found a Link Between 10,000 Steps a Day and Weight Loss

Research supports walking for weight loss. According to a 2018 study published in the journal Obesity walking 10,000 steps a day results in 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. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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.

Can't find time to exercise between work, family, and life's demands? You're not alone. That's why 87,000 people have turned to celebrity fitness trainer Lucy Wyndham-Read's game-changing walking workout. With three decades of experience and 2.47M YouTube subscribers, Lucy has perfected the art of burning fat without leaving your living room. Her 15-minute routine requires zero equipment and minimal space, making it perfect for busy schedules. Read on to discover the exact moves that are helping thousands transform their bodies while watching TV, working from home, or even wearing pajamas.


Jump-Start Your Metabolism: Basic March and Corner Walks

Begin igniting your fat burn with a basic march in place, maintaining a tall posture for maximum calorie burn. "Land nice and softly with those feet. Keep those feet moving," Lucy instructs in her post. Progress to walking toward corners with slight leg bends to engage more muscles. "It doesn't matter if you don't get the move straight away," Lucy reassures, "just follow along. We're doing this at home, nobody's watching."

Fat-Burning Power Moves: Punches and Side Steps

Accelerate your calorie burn with power punches while marching. "These low impact workouts are perfect if you don't like being a burpee girl," Lucy explains. Add lateral side steps with arm pulls to target stubborn inner and outer thigh areas. Lucy emphasizes making the moves as wide as comfortable: "The wider you step it, the more intense that is working through those legs."

RELATED:Woman Lost 50 Pounds on the 5050 Diet and Never Felt Hungry

Upper Body Sculpting: Rope Pulls and Arm Circles

Keep your heart rate elevated while toning your arms and shoulders. "We're toning and sculpting your whole body at the same time with these moves," Lucy shares. Incorporate circling arms into your power march for increased calorie burn. These movements simultaneously strengthen your chest and upper back while maintaining fat-burning momentum.

Metabolic Boosters: Knee-Friendly Strength Moves

These strategic movements protect your joints while maximizing calorie burn. "We're actually going to build strength around the knees because we're really working through the lower body, we're making those legs nice and strong," Lucy explains. She adds a practical tip: "You can do all my workouts, these low impact ones, walking ones, you can do them in your pajamas. You don't need to be in workout gear."

Calorie-Burning Coordination

Multi-tasking movements increase your workout's effectiveness. "We're having to focus on what we're doing with this double step and this clap. So it's going to help improve what we call your motor skills and your coordination." These movements don't just burn calories – they enhance overall body awareness and mental acuity.

RELATED:Dad Drops 125 Pounds in Just 13 Months By Eating These Foods Every Day

Heart-Rate Elevating Moves

Strategic arm movements maximize fat burn. "Anytime we take the arms above heart level just means we're working your heart. Cardiovascular fitness a little bit harder," Lucy notes. These movements are particularly effective for women in different life stages: "This is great if you're perimenopause, menopause, postmenopausal as well."

Sustainable Fat Loss Approach

Lucy highlights long-term success: "You and I are focusing on your future health. I want you to wake up every morning feeling fit, healthy, and strong." She stresses healthy motivation: "Weight loss should only ever be for better health. It's not about appearance. We just want to be in our healthy weight range."

Maximum Burn: Fast Feet and Cross-Country

The workout peaks with high-energy movements. "Low impact is just as effective as high impact," Lucy emphasizes. The finale features cross-country skiing movements, which Lucy describes as "a really dynamic full-body move, also great for a lovely stretch."

RELATED:Weight Loss Coach Shares 5 Key Reverse Dieting Hacks

Pro Tip

Personalize your fat-burning session by playing your favorite music. "This workout today has always just been about focusing on improving and investing in your future health," Lucy concludes. Her approach proves that effective fat burning doesn't require complicated routines or expensive equipment – just 15 minutes of strategic movement in your own home. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Kelsey_Rose3
Copyright thekelseyrose_/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.

Kelsey Rose is showing off her ab-fab body – in her two-piece workout gear. In a new social media post, the fitness trainer flaunts her washboard abs in an Alo exercise set as she unveils her under-30-minute fat-blasting workout. “The only fat-burning cardio workout you need to get sculpted & snatched,” she writes across the video, recommending doing it two to four times weekly for fat loss. Do you want to lose weight just by walking? Here is what you need to know.


She Upped Her Step Count

“When I upped my daily steps from 4k to 10k, let me tell you—it completely transformed not just my body but my entire mindset. Walking is such a simple but effective way to stay active, and it’s seriously the secret sauce to slimming down and feeling your best. Plus, it works wonders for your mental,” she says.

RELATED: 12 Genius Hacks a Dietitian Uses to Double Her Protein “Without Touching Chicken”

The Routine Combines Jogging and Incline Walking

“This routine also incorporates jogging + incline, which forces your heart rate up and down, revving up the metabolism in the best way possible!” she continues. Walking on an incline burns more calories than walking fast or even running on a flat surface, which is why many experts suggest upping your incline. A 2013 study even found that walking on a 2 to 7 percent incline increased heart rate by almost 10 percent when compared with running on a flat surface.

Here Is the 25 Minute Routine

Here’s the breakdown:

  1. Warm-up: 5 min brisk walk (3.0-3.5 mph, 2% incline)
  2. Jog: 3 min (5.5 mph, 2% incline)
  3. Power walk: 3 min (3 mph, 8% incline)
  4. Jog: 2 min (6.0 mph, 2% incline)
  5. Power walk: 2 min (4.0 mph, 9% incline)
  6. Sprint: 1 min (7.0 mph, 2% incline)
  7. Power walk: 5 min (3.5 mph, 10% incline)
  8. Jog: 2 min (5.5 mph, 2% incline)
  9. Cool down: 2 min easy walk.

She Also Shared a 15-Minute Workout

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

Just 15 Minutes Offers So many Benefits

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

RELATED: Nutritionist Reveals 8 Signs You're Eating Too Many Carbs

Here Is the 15 Minute Workout

“My Cheat Code Treadmill Series,” she says.

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

Do It After Your Regular Workout

She recommends doing it after your regular workout. “Just 15 minutes, and you’re done! Try it out as a finisher for your next workout and see how it feels to add this extra boost. Let’s make cardio simple and effective!” she says.

Walking Offers Lots of Health Benefits

Walking at a brisk speed offers lots of benefits. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that getting your steps in about 30 minutes a day led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

RELATED: 10 Everyday Foods This Expert Says Are “Absolutely Destroying Your Health”

10,000 Steps Is Ideal for Weight Loss

According to research published in the journal Obesity, walking 10,000 steps a day, weight loss, and weight management are linked. 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. 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.

Weight loss is primarily accomplished through controlling the diet, finding balance with the consumption of nutrient-dense foods, and avoiding overconsumption based on what your body needs for the day. Excess caloric intake is stored as fat as a survival mechanism of the body, and over time, overconsumption leads to weight gain, with every 3,500 calories of energy consumed equating to 1lb of body weight. So, exercise number 1 is to exercise control over what you consume each day, limit refined sugars and empty non-nutritional foods, and meet your personal caloric intake. The great news is that physical exercise is a fantastic mechanism for burning additional calories. Here are 20 exercise tips to help you tone up on the weight loss journey.


Muscle Building Moves

Samantha_Clayton_samanthaclaytonfitness5samanthaclaytonfitness/Instagram

Building muscle is the secret weapon for weight loss because lean body mass burns additional calories so this is a sustainable approach to long term success. Exercise that targets large muscle groups gets you more bang for your effort.

Muscle Building Moves: Squats

Positive sportive woman with bun hairstyle and in tight sportswear doing squatting sit-up exercise while watching training video on tablet. indoor studio shot illuminated by sunlight from windowShutterstock

What it does: Squats engage multiple muscle groups, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and lower back, promoting overall lower body strength and development.

Why it works: Squats are a compound movement, meaning they recruit several large muscle groups simultaneously, leading to increased calorie burn and muscle growth.

How many to do: Aim for 3 sets of 10-12 reps to start, adjusting weight and reps as needed to challenge your muscles effectively.

Muscle Building Moves: Lunges

Sporty beautiful happy young woman warming up, stretching before morning running routine, doing high lunges, exercises for legs, hips and buttocks, working out outdoor on autumn day. Full lengthShutterstock

What it does: Lunges primarily target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes while also engaging the core for stability.

Why it works: Like squats, lunges are a compound exercise that recruits multiple muscle groups, contributing to calorie burn and muscle development.

How many to do: Start with 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg, gradually increasing intensity by adding weights or variations like walking lunges.

Muscle Building Moves: Push-Ups

Gorgeous blonde woman warming up and doing some push ups a the gymShutterstock

What it does: Push-ups strengthen the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles.

Why it works: Push-ups are a fundamental bodyweight exercise that effectively engages multiple upper body muscle groups, contributing to increased muscle mass and calorie expenditure.

How many to do: Aim for three sets of 8-12 reps, focusing on maintaining proper form throughout each repetition.

RELATED:15 Food Swaps That Will Save You Hundreds of Calories a Day and Help You Lose Weight

Muscle Building Moves: Lat Pull Downs

Young sporty woman training her lats and biceps on cable machine in gymShutterstock

What it does: Lat pull downs primarily target the latissimus dorsi muscles of the back, along with the biceps and shoulders.

Why it works: This exercise helps develop upper body strength and muscle definition, contributing to overall calorie burn and metabolic rate.

How many to do: Perform 3 sets of 8-12 reps, adjusting the weight to ensure proper form and challenge for each set.

Muscle Building Moves: Chest Press

,Bodybuilder,Training,Gym:,Chest,-,Barbell, bench, press, weights, gym,exerciseShutterstock

What it does: Chest press exercises target the pectoral muscles, shoulders, and triceps.

Why it works: By focusing on the chest and upper body, chest presses help build muscle mass and strength, increasing overall calorie expenditure during and after workouts.

How many to do: Start with 3 sets of 8-12 reps, gradually increasing weight as your strength improves.

Cardio with Muscle Focus

Training,Cycling,Machines,cardio,bike,gym,fitness,exercise,workoutShutterstock

Doing steady state cardio with a muscle build focus can be achieved with resistance. Here are some of my favorites.

Cardio with Muscle Focus: Treadmill Steep Incline

Woman using incline threadmill in modern gym. Incline threadmills are used to simulate uphill walking or running and deliver additional workout benefits to users.Shutterstock

What it does: Walking or running on a treadmill with a steep incline engages the lower body muscles, particularly the glutes, hamstrings, and calves, while also increasing cardiovascular endurance.

Why it works: The steep incline adds resistance, intensifies the workout and increases calorie burn compared to flat-surface cardio.

How many to do: Aim for 20-30 minutes of incline treadmill walking or running as part of your cardio routine, adjusting speed and incline to maintain the challenge.

Cardio with Muscle Focus: Stair Stepper

Cropped up photo shot young strong skinny sporty athletic sportswoman woman in white sportswear warm up train run on a treadmill climber stairs machine in gym indoor Workout sport motivation conceptShutterstock

What it does: The stair stepper simulates climbing stairs, targeting the lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, while also providing a cardiovascular workout.

Why it works: Stepping against resistance challenges the leg muscles and elevates heart rate, leading to calorie burn and improved endurance.

How many to do: Incorporate 20-30 minutes of stair stepper workouts into your routine, gradually increasing duration or intensity as fitness improves.

RELATED:9 People Share Their Proven Strategies for Losing Over 40 Pounds

Cardio with Muscle Focus: Walking the Real Stairs

Determined woman running up on seaside mountain stairsShutterstock

What it does: Walking or running up stairs engages the lower body muscles similar to the stair stepper, providing a cardiovascular and strength-building workout.

Why it works: Stair climbing targets multiple muscle groups while also elevating heart rate, making it an effective calorie-burning exercise.

How many to do: Incorporate stair climbing into your routine by using stairs instead of elevators whenever possible or dedicating 20-30 minutes to stair climbing workouts.

Cardio with Muscle Focus: Hike Uphill

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

What it does: Uphill hiking engages the leg muscles, core, and cardiovascular system, providing a full-body workout while also improving balance and coordination.

Why it works: Hiking uphill against gravity increases resistance, challenges muscles, and burns more calories than flat terrain.

How many to do: Aim for 60-90 minutes of uphill hiking per session, gradually increasing duration or difficulty as fitness improves.

Cardio with Muscle Focus: Running Fast

Rear view to runner in blue t-shirt and black leggings running on bridge. Outdoor exercising on smooth concrete ground on lake bridge. Sun is outlining man bodyShutterstock

What it does: Sprinting involves explosive, high-intensity bursts of running, primarily targeting the lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, while also engaging the core and upper body for stability.

Why it works: Sprinting elevates heart rate and metabolism, leading to significant calorie burn during and after exercise, while also promoting muscle development and power.

How many to do: Incorporate sprint intervals into your cardio routine, such as alternating between 30 seconds of sprinting and 60 seconds of walking or jogging, for a total of 10-15 minutes per session. Adjust intensity and duration based on fitness level and goals.

Slow and Steady, Low Impact Workouts

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You can get a nice slow calorie burn with some classic favorites, because of the low impact steady nature you need to put in time on the clock. 45 minutes or more is a good starting point for slow and steady moves.

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

Slow and Steady: Swimming

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What it does: Swimming engages various muscle groups throughout the body, providing a low-impact cardiovascular workout while also building strength and endurance.

Why it works: The resistance of water challenges muscles while the rhythmic movements increase heart rate, promoting calorie burn and overall fitness.

How many to do: Aim for 45-60 minutes of swimming per session, adjusting intensity and strokes to maintain challenge and enjoyment.

Slow and Steady: Long Walk/Run

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What it does: Walking or running for an extended period targets the lower body muscles and cardiovascular system, providing a steady calorie burn and endurance challenge.

Why it works: Long-duration aerobic exercise promotes fat oxidation and improves cardiovascular health, contributing to weight loss and overall fitness.

How many to do: Dedicate at least 45 minutes to an hour for long walks or runs, gradually increasing duration or distance as fitness improves.

Slow and Steady: Step Class

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What it does: Step classes involve choreographed routines using a raised platform, targeting the lower body muscles and cardiovascular system while improving coordination and agility.

Why it works: The repetitive stepping motions elevate heart rate and engage leg muscles, providing a fun and effective calorie-burning workout.

How many to do: Participate in 45-60 minute step classes, following the instructor's cues for intensity and duration.

Slow and Steady: Spin Class

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What it does: Spin classes involve stationary cycling with varying resistance levels and speeds, targeting the leg muscles and cardiovascular system while providing a high-intensity, low-impact workout.

Why it works: Cycling against resistance challenges leg muscles and elevates heart rate, promoting calorie burn and endurance while minimizing the impact on joints.

How many to do: Attend 45-60 minute spin classes, adjusting resistance and speed to match fitness level and goals.

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

Rowing

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What it does: Rowing engages the legs, core, back, and arms, providing a full-body cardiovascular and strength-building workout.

Why it works: Rowing against resistance challenges muscles and elevates heart rate, leading to calorie burn and improved cardiovascular health.

How many to do: Aim for 20-30 minutes of rowing per session, adjusting resistance and stroke rate to maintain challenge and intensity.

High Intensity Intervals

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There are a few ways to get the calorie burn. High intense moves burn primarily readily available carbs/sugars and glycogen stores in the body, however the post exercise oxygen debt recovery burns some good old fat stores.

High Intensity Intervals: Tabata

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What it does: Tabata involves mixing rest intervals with periods of high-intensity work, promoting calorie burn and cardiovascular fitness in a short amount of time.

Why it works: The intense bursts of exercise elevate heart rate and metabolism, leading to significant calorie burn during and after the workout, while the brief rest periods allow for recovery.

How many to do: Perform Tabata intervals consisting of 20 seconds of high-intensity exercise followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeating for a total of 4 minutes per exercise. Choose exercises like box jumps, jump rope, banded squats, reverse lunge skips, and jumping jacks for maximum effectiveness.

RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

Don’t Forget About Diet

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The best way to lose weight is to be consistent with your exercise routine and focusing your nutrition especially on what you need to eat before – during and after your workout to best support the body’s energy needs and recovery. Walking away from unhealthy snacks is a great place to start.

💪🔥Body Booster:To achieve sustainable weight loss, focus on building muscle through exercises that target large muscle groups. Increasing your lean body mass will help you burn more calories in the long run.

Samantha Clayton is a certified fitness trainer, personal and group trainer, AFAA, ISSA, and NASM.

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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
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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.

Ozempic can be highly effective for weight loss, but there are definitely some unpleasant side effects to contend with, as the makers of the drug, Novo Nordisk, warn about. Nausea, constipation, and stomach pain are common, but avoiding certain foods and behaviors can make a difference. Here are 20 things to avoid while on Ozempic, to make the most of the medication and encourage healthy weight loss.

Too Much Sugar

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Added sugars, and sugary sodas, can spike blood sugar. Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, recommends that people avoid sugary foods while on the drug. “If you are taking medication to lower your sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid excess sugar consumption,” Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, MD, FAAP, FOMA, tells Parade. “Failure to watch what you eat and keep your sugar levels elevated may prevent you from seeing the intended results of the medication,” she shares.”

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Ultra-processed foods can make side effects of Ozempic worse. “This medication slows down gastric emptying and the dense food will move much slower through your intestines, which can make you feel sick [and experience] nausea, vomiting, reflux and abdominal pain,” says Dr. Peralta-Reich. “Someone may not see the results they're looking for either.”

High-Fat Foods

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Foods high in saturated and trans fats can make side effects of Ozempic worse. Some people complain of diarrhea and stomach pains. “I’ve seen an almost dumping syndrome-like response in people taking GLP-1s when they eat simple carbohydrates and high-fat foods,” Dr. Shauna Levy, a specialist in obesity medicine and medical director of the Tulane Bariatric and Weight Loss Center in New Orleans, tells TODAY.

Sitting All Day

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Staying active is important while on Ozempic. Regular exercise is not only important for health, it can prevent muscle loss. The goal should be fat loss, and getting strong.

Not Hydrating

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Don’t forget to drink your water and stay hydrated. Drinking water can help with side effects of Ozempic, especially nausea. Ozempic.com recommends drinking clear or ice-cold drinks to combat any nausea and discomfort.

Too Much Alcohol

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Avoid alcohol on Ozempic, experts advice. “One, it’s just empty calories. Two, it tends to make people make decisions that they otherwise might not make,” says Dr. Levy. “It could increase hunger, and the whole point of GLP-1s, or at least one of the points, is to decrease hunger. So it sort of negates their purpose.”

Be Mindful of Portions

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Ozempic keeps food in the stomach longer, so bigger portions can cause discomfort. “Understanding that overall portions are smaller on these medications, we want to optimize nutritional intake and consume the ‘best’ calories available,” obesity medicine physician Dr. Christopher McGowan tells TODAY. “The focus should be on lean protein, healthy fruits and vegetables, adequate fiber and adequate fluid intake.”

Be Mindful of Coffee

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“Overall, coffee is perfectly fine to consume, but for some individuals can lead to stomach irritation,” says Dr. McGowan. “Therefore, I recommend drinking coffee in moderation, such as one to two cups a day. Patients should also be mindful of calorie-dense additives, like cream and sugar.”

Don’t Skip Meals

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It’s easy to skip meals when on Ozempic, but make sure you’re getting enough nutrition. Some people have even become malnourished as a result of not eating. “It’s never healthy to not eat,” Dr. Hwang said. Dr. Janice Jin Hwang, the division chief of endocrinology and metabolism at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine tells the New York Times.

Don’t Consider It a Quick Fix

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Ozempic should be part of a long-term health plan. “It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal,” says UC Davis Health. This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.”

Same Unhealthy Lifestyle

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Don’t continue an unhealthy diet and assume it’s ok because of Ozempic. “You can likely lose weight on semaglutide medications without changing your diet and activity behaviors, but these lifestyle changes will make the treatment more effective,” Richard Siegel, MD, tells the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. “Also, we don’t know if weight loss will have the same health benefits if one does not change their behaviors.”

Protect Your Health

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Some doctors warn that taking Ozempic can make people complacent about their health. “It is important to remember that obesity is heterogenous, chronic and complex,” Vijaya Surampudi, MD, physician nutrition specialist and assistant director of the UCLA Weight Management Program (RFO), tells UCLA Health. “There is no cure for obesity. It requires lifelong treatment that’s not one size fits all.”

Carbonated Beverages

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Ozempic slows down digestion, keeping food in your stomach for longer. This causes a feeling of fullness and some unpleasant side effects for some people like belching. Stick to still water as carbonated beverages can make stomach issues worse.

Long-Term Goals

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If you plan on only taking Ozempic or Wegovy for a short while, it’s likely your weight will come back on. “In one trial of Wegovy, people regained about two-thirds of the weight lost within a year of stopping the drug,” Dr. Siegel explains. “Lifestyle changes can help maintain weight loss, but it’s unusual to maintain all weight loss once you stop any weight loss medication.”

Refined Carbohydrates

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Refined carbohydrates tend to spike blood sugar, which is exactly what Ozempic is meant to treat. You don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, but be aware it makes it harder for Ozempic to do its job. “Foods like white bread, white rice, crackers, or even cereals may seem like better choices than foods with added sugar, but refined carbohydrates still metabolize as glucose in the body,” Christine Fallabel, MPH, tells Diabetes Strong.

Watch Out For High Fiber

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While many green vegetables are low GI, be careful about the fiber. “If you’re not used to eating a lot of vegetables, you may experience side effects such as bloating and gas, until your body has acclimated to eating a more fiber-filled diet,” Fallabel says.

Junk Food

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Junk food—which you should be avoiding either way for weight loss purposes—often contains high levels of sodium. “Ultra-processed foods are high in sodium, saturated fats and added sugars, which contribute to a range of health problems,” Elizabeth Ko, MD, and Eve Glazier, MD, tell UCLA Health. These include an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lowered immune response, certain cancers, dementia and early death.”

Spicy Foods

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Ozempic can cause acid reflux due to slow digestion. Spicy foods can make acid reflux worse, experts warn. However, if acid reflux is not an issue, people can probably enjoy spicy foods if they wish.

Always See a Medical Professional

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Ozempic should only be prescribed by a medical professional. “Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging.”

Fried Foods

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Fried, greasy foods can make Ozempic stomach issues worse. “Foods high in fat can make digestive side effects worse. Since food hangs around longer in the stomach, it has more time to cause problems,” Sarah Bullard, MS, RD, LD, tells Signos. “Some studies have shown that consuming too much fat can increase symptoms of fullness, nausea, and bloating in individuals with digestive issues and heartburn. Reducing fat intake resolved symptoms.”

💪🔥Body Booster: A whole foods Mediterranean diet is ideal while taking Ozempic.

Sophie van Oostenbrugg gainsbybrains
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Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you want to get your glutes sculpted for summer? Sophie van Oostenbrugg is a fitness trainer and the founder of the Gains with Brains app. She regularly shares workouts with her 2.4 million Instagram followers on how to burn fat and build muscle. “I grew up hearing that women should be as small as possible. That’s why I loved being able to share my bulking journey on social. I’ve done 2 bulks so far.. and I was thinking about starting and sharing a 3rd one,” she wrote in a recent post. She also revealed her “medium leg day” workout, which will help you tone up fast.

She Does Multiple Leg Days a Week

“I have good news today..it’s a medium leg day!!!🫣🤭sooo I split my leg workouts & currently have lighter, medium and heavier days. this helps me with recovery, train through a variety of rep ranges and make it more enjoyable,” she explains in the post.

She Does 8 to 12 Reps of Each Exercise

In the video she explains that she has “multiple leg days per week.” She goes onto reveal all of the exercises she does with “rep ranges from 8 to 12.”

RDLS

“I started with RDLs, four sets of eight,” Sophie reveals. To do Romanian deadlifts, start with both legs pressed evenly on the floor. “Slightly bend knees while bending over,” says The Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian. “Keep your arms pointing down toward the floor and lower with you almost touching the floor. Keep hips and shoulders square facing forward throughout the exercise. Return to standing.” She suggests repeating 10 to 12 times with the right leg and repeating on the left side. “Progression includes holding a weight in the arm pointing toward the floor,” she adds.

Sumo Squat with Kettlebell

“Then I moved on to a sumo squat with kettlebell. You know the deal, form over everything, so go slow and control the weight,” she says. Sumo squats are similar to regular squats, only you point your toes outward.

Glute Bridges

“Then I did glute bridges,” Sophie continues. You can do glute bridges with or without weights.

Cable Step Up

Next up? Cable step ups, using an exercise block. “These are great as they help with balance and therefore they're easier to overload,” she says.

Seated Leg Curl

She sits down at a machine. “Then I did a seated leg curl,” she says.

Core Exercise

“I finished with some core exercises,” Sophie concludes. “I want to get my core as strong as humanly possible so I can keep recording more intense ab workouts.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try splitting up your workouts into light, medium, and intense days to allow your body ample time needed to recover.

Joyy Maria joyymaria
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Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you want to accelerate your weight loss? Go on a hot girl walk. Joy Maria (@therealjoyymaria/video) is a weight loss influencer and mother who lost 70 pounds in less than 11 months. One of her secret weight loss weapons? “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.” Here is everything you need to know about how she lost weight, including some great walking tips.

She Recommends Walking After a Workout to “Cool Down

“I love walking after training because it's low impact, and my trainer's pretty intense. So it's just kind of like my cool down. I can listen to podcasts, I can answer emails, I can talk on the phone, scroll on TikTok, whatever. So get to walking, sis,” she says.

Calorie Deficit

In another video she details “exactly” how she went from 230 pounds to 160 pounds in 10 to 11 months. “If somebody is telling you that you can lose weight without being in a calorie deficit run because they're lying,” she continues, 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.”

Meal Plan

Next she recommends 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.”

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

Her favorite breakfast is “avocado toast on sourdough bread, one hard boiled egg,” which she seasons, adding truffle hot sauce, two pieces of bacon, and one piece of sausage. “High protein, good, healthy fat, and a healthy balance of carbs,” she says. “This can also be a breakfast or a lunch because it is super filling.” Another favorite is yogurt bowls made with Dannon Light and Fit Greek yogurt with granola blackberries and blueberries. She also likes tunacado sandwiches with sourdough bread, cheese, tomato, avocado, and pesto basil spread. For dinner she might have a small bowl of Turkey chili.

Hydration

She also drinks “a ton” of water, “like a gallon of water a day,” she says. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends that men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids. Why is hydration so important? 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, according to Mayo Clinic.

Working Out

Working out is the “second most important part,” she says. “I was taking group classes when it first started. They were high intensity bootcamp. From there, I got a trainer at the same gym. I also work out on my own. If the gym intimidates you, I strongly recommend you guys try some group fitness classes. They're a really great way to hold yourself accountable because you're in a group setting and the people around you can motivate you,” she adds. “I incorporated Pilates about nine to 10 months into my fitness journey, and I wish I would've done it sooner.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you are working out but not seeing the weight loss results you desire, add walking to your routine every day.