Skip to content

Trainer Reveals Essential At-Home Gym Equipment for Fat Loss

Get fit without a gym membership.

Paige Kumpf trainerpaige
Copyright trainerpaige/Instagram/Shutterstock

Do you have a home gym or plan on setting one up? You may only have your living room to exercise in. Either way, there are a few key pieces of at-home gym equipment you should invest in for fat loss, according to an expert. Paige Kumpf is a fitness trainer and fat loss coach who helps her clients transform their bodies and lives. In a new social media post, she reveals “must-haves, nice-to-haves, and if you have the space and means” pieces of home gym equipment you should get. “If you work out at home, you need this gym equipment,” she writes.


Must-Have: Dumbbells

Her first must-have? “A wide range of dumbbells at least up to 40 pounds. If you want to save space, get adjustable dumbbells,” she writes. Why do you need various weights? If you want to build muscle, you have to continue upping your weight.

Must-Have: Adjustable Bench

Attractive blonde woman in 30s doing chest press exercise on bench in modern fitness center. Toned image.Shutterstock

Another must-have? An adjustable bench to use for weight-lifting. “They’re low cost and fairly space-friendly and multifunctional,” she says.

Nice to Haves: Exercise Bands

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

She starts off her “nice to haves” list with exercise bands. These are great “for when you get tired of always using dumbells” she says. They are also beneficial if you need assistance with a pull-up.

Nice to Haves: Step Bench

Back view of sporty athlete having a step aerobics in a gym. Woman doing c\ufffdorner knee step

shutterstock

Another nice to have? “A height-adjustable step or bench for split squats and step-ups,” she says.

Nice to Haves: A TRX or Amazon Dupe

Women doing push ups training arms with trx fitness straps in the gym Concept workout healthy lifestyle sport

Shutterstock

Another nice to have is a TRX or the Amazon dupe, “because dumbbell rows and every variation of them get very repetitive and many are spinal loaded,” she says. “This allows you to do more exercises, including ab and hamstring work too.”

Nice to Haves: 20-Degree Solo Wedges

Close-up - Slim brunette woman working out in outdoor gym at summer warm day.

Shutterstock

Another nice to have item she recommends are 20-degree solo wedges. These are great “for split squats and regular squats,” she explains.

Nice to Haves: Ankle Weights

Woman at gym putting ankle weightsShutterstock

Ankle weights are another good nice to have. “I use them to hit glute med shortened and lengthened, but they're so small and inexpensive it makes it worth it for a single-use equipment,” she says.

Space and Means Haves: Dual able Machine

Man,Doing,Cable,Fly,Exercise,In,GymShutterstock

Her first space and means haves is a dual cable machine. “They make them pretty small/space-friendly these days, and it opens a whole new world of resistance profiles, lines of pull, loading, and exercise variability,” she says.

Space and Means Haves: Leg Extension, Hamstring Curl Machine

Close up view gym seated leg curl machine exercise woman at indoor in gymShutterstock

Another space and means have is a leg extension, and hamstring curl machine. “There's no great way to hit shortened quads at home otherwise,” she admits.

Space and Means Haves: Squat Rack, Smith Machine Combo

Athletic young sporty woman doing squat exercise in the smith machine. Smith rack machine in modern fitness center.

Shutterstock

A squat rack, smith machine combo is another recommended piece of gym equipment. “This has many uses, but is also pricey and takes up a lot of space,” she writes.

Space and Means Haves: Hack Squat/Leg Press Combo

woman flexing muscles on leg press machine in gymShutterstock

If you have a full at-home gym and extra money in your bank account, she recommends splurging on a hack squat/leg press combo.

Space and Means Haves: Cardio Machine

Legs of woman running on treadmillShutterstock

Cardio machines are another space and means haves. She recommends a “treadmill slash walking pad and or a Peloton bike to get in steps or cardio when weather doesn't permit.”

A Few More Recommendations

Close up legs of sport woman standing and preparation to lifting weight or pull ups for exercise in fitness gym, fitness and healthy concept

Shutterstock

A few other pieces she recommends? Versa Gripps, which are weight-lifting gloves, a weighted vest, ankle straps, and other cable attachments. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

More For You

Paige Kumpf trainerpaige
Copyright trainerpaige/Instagram/Shutterstock

Do you have a home gym or plan on setting one up? You may only have your living room to exercise in. Either way, there are a few key pieces of at-home gym equipment you should invest in for fat loss, according to an expert. Paige Kumpf is a fitness trainer and fat loss coach who helps her clients transform their bodies and lives. In a new social media post, she reveals “must-haves, nice-to-haves, and if you have the space and means” pieces of home gym equipment you should get. “If you work out at home, you need this gym equipment,” she writes.

Must-Have: Dumbbells

Her first must-have? “A wide range of dumbbells at least up to 40 pounds. If you want to save space, get adjustable dumbbells,” she writes. Why do you need various weights? If you want to build muscle, you have to continue upping your weight.

Must-Have: Adjustable Bench

Attractive blonde woman in 30s doing chest press exercise on bench in modern fitness center. Toned image.Shutterstock

Another must-have? An adjustable bench to use for weight-lifting. “They’re low cost and fairly space-friendly and multifunctional,” she says.

Nice to Haves: Exercise Bands

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

She starts off her “nice to haves” list with exercise bands. These are great “for when you get tired of always using dumbells” she says. They are also beneficial if you need assistance with a pull-up.

Nice to Haves: Step Bench

Back view of sporty athlete having a step aerobics in a gym. Woman doing c\ufffdorner knee step

shutterstock

Another nice to have? “A height-adjustable step or bench for split squats and step-ups,” she says.

Nice to Haves: A TRX or Amazon Dupe

Women doing push ups training arms with trx fitness straps in the gym Concept workout healthy lifestyle sport

Shutterstock

Another nice to have is a TRX or the Amazon dupe, “because dumbbell rows and every variation of them get very repetitive and many are spinal loaded,” she says. “This allows you to do more exercises, including ab and hamstring work too.”

Nice to Haves: 20-Degree Solo Wedges

Close-up - Slim brunette woman working out in outdoor gym at summer warm day.

Shutterstock

Another nice to have item she recommends are 20-degree solo wedges. These are great “for split squats and regular squats,” she explains.

Nice to Haves: Ankle Weights

Woman at gym putting ankle weightsShutterstock

Ankle weights are another good nice to have. “I use them to hit glute med shortened and lengthened, but they're so small and inexpensive it makes it worth it for a single-use equipment,” she says.

Space and Means Haves: Dual able Machine

Man,Doing,Cable,Fly,Exercise,In,GymShutterstock

Her first space and means haves is a dual cable machine. “They make them pretty small/space-friendly these days, and it opens a whole new world of resistance profiles, lines of pull, loading, and exercise variability,” she says.

Space and Means Haves: Leg Extension, Hamstring Curl Machine

Close up view gym seated leg curl machine exercise woman at indoor in gymShutterstock

Another space and means have is a leg extension, and hamstring curl machine. “There's no great way to hit shortened quads at home otherwise,” she admits.

Space and Means Haves: Squat Rack, Smith Machine Combo

Athletic young sporty woman doing squat exercise in the smith machine. Smith rack machine in modern fitness center.

Shutterstock

A squat rack, smith machine combo is another recommended piece of gym equipment. “This has many uses, but is also pricey and takes up a lot of space,” she writes.

Space and Means Haves: Hack Squat/Leg Press Combo

woman flexing muscles on leg press machine in gymShutterstock

If you have a full at-home gym and extra money in your bank account, she recommends splurging on a hack squat/leg press combo.

Space and Means Haves: Cardio Machine

Legs of woman running on treadmillShutterstock

Cardio machines are another space and means haves. She recommends a “treadmill slash walking pad and or a Peloton bike to get in steps or cardio when weather doesn't permit.”

A Few More Recommendations

Close up legs of sport woman standing and preparation to lifting weight or pull ups for exercise in fitness gym, fitness and healthy concept

Shutterstock

A few other pieces she recommends? Versa Gripps, which are weight-lifting gloves, a weighted vest, ankle straps, and other cable attachments. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Evidence-Based

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

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

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

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


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

Why Body Weight Training Works Better Than Weights

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

The Age Factor: Natural Resistance Is Your Friend

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

Stop Wasting Money on Equipment

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

The Science Behind Body Weight Training

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

Level 1: Wall Push-ups

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

Level 2: Diamond Knee Push-ups

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

Level 3: Full Diamond Push-ups

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

The Kitchen Connection

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

Your No-Equipment Success Plan

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

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

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

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

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


Here Is the Workout

Stacey_Roberts_fitness_momness1fitness_momness/Instagram

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

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

Using “Equipment” Around the House

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

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

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

Workouts Aren’t “One-Size-Fits-All”

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

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

Invest in Equipment Slowly

Different sports equipment and fitness ball in gymShutterstock

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

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

Walking

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

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

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

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

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

No gym, no problem. You can get an effective, full-body workout in the comfort of your own home or backyard. Sandy Sklar is a Fitness Trainer and influencer with over one million followers on Instagram. Her mission is to help people get fit using minimal equipment. In a recent post she shares a short but effective at-home workout that requires little equipment and very little space. “FULL BODY work,” she writes in the caption of the Instagram clip. “All you need is a set of dumbbells, a small space and a body ready to work, for this fiery set 🔥Perfect for home or gym.” Here is her workout – and everything else you need to know about her lifestyle habits.


Here Is the Workout

Sandy_Sklar1sandysklarxfit/Instagram

“Perform all 4 exercises in a circuit with minimal rest between. Aim for 3-5 sets. Adjust reps and weight as needed to accommodate your fitness level,” Sandy writes before revealing the workout set.

  1. Blast off push-up x 10
  2. Renegade row x 20 total
  3. RDL, clean to front squat x 15
  4. Alternating split squat jumps (weight optional) x 20 total

She Has a Work Out Buddy

Sandy_Sklar5sandysklarxfit/Instagram

Sandy has a workout buddy with her husband – sort of. “Actually, Paul and I, we kind of just do our own thing,” Sandy told Muscle & Fitness. “Sometimes we’ll kind of work out together, and if our little ones start to run around and do their own thing, we’ll basically assist whoever needs help watching them. They like to use some of the resistance bands and some of our equipment. So we’ll show him some stuff — or they may even want to show us an exercise or two [laughs].”

RELATED: 5 Best Exercises for “Bra Bulge” After 50

Weekends Off

Sandy_Sklar3sandysklarxfit/Instagram

Sandy works out Monday through Friday. “Because we’re so busy during the work week, it’s really hard to make time,” Sandy told Muscle & Fitness. “So our weekends, we take off. That’s our time together and we make sure we make the time.”

Planning Ahead

Workout Training Exercise Plan And Daily ScheduleShutterstock

“Planning ahead is key to my success. Breakfast is always a must for me. Since I'm at home early in the morning (I'm up at 4 a.m. and get to work by 5 or 5:30 a.m.), I make it a priority to make sure I cook whole foods. I start every day with two shots of espresso and steamed 2 percent milk, one cup of organic egg whites with frozen organic spinach, one or two pieces of Spelt toast, and a cup of fresh seasonal organic mixed berries. I make sure that I take 30 grams of grass-fed whey protein with me—I mix it with about 16 ounces of water—that I consume two to three hours after breakfast,” Sandy told Glamour.

RELATED: 5 Little-Known Tips for Burning Belly Fat

Easing Into Fitness

Sandy_Sklar4sandysklarxfit/Instagram

Sandy recommends starting slow when getting into exercise. “If you are a beginner or lack the motivation to exercise, just try to find an activity you enjoy,” Sklar told Women’s Health. “Walking, swimming, or participating in a recreational sport is a great place to start. Any physical activity or movement is better than none."

💪🔥Body Booster: If you only have 15 minutes to work out, carefully choose a few exercises and aim to do 3 to five sets of them.

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.

Does your weight loss and transformation seem to be taking longer than it should? You could be making a few mistakes, according to one expert. Persis Kapadia is a fitness trainer and online coach who trains women to be “the best version of themselves.” In a new social media post, she reveals several things she wished she had done to accelerate her fat loss process. “My progress would have been 10 times faster if I did this,” she writes across the Instagram video.

You Cannot Outrain a Bad Diet

Number one, "You CANNOT out-train a bad diet," she says in her post. "Nutrition is 80% of success for changing your body composition. You can workout 5 days a week, but if your diet isn't adjusted, it's almost like a waste of time. Exercise alone can't 'change' your body."

RELATED: Fitness Coach Reveals Strength Training Secret That Burns Fat at 40

Do Cardio After Weights – Not Before

Another thing she recommends? "Do Cardio AFTER weights for fat loss," she says. "Weight training is essential for building and preserving muscle mass. Doing cardio after weight training ensures that you prioritize weightlifting which helps prevent excessive muscle breakdown during cardio. This is particularly important if your primary goal is muscle gain or body recomposition."

Prioritize Form

Next, prioritize "Form over ego," she says. "Take your time & focus on your form. This will reduce the risk of injury by ensuring proper muscle engagement. Also, focusing on form allows for targeted muscle activation, leading to more effective workouts and better overall results."

Do Fewer Heavy Reps Over High Reps of Light

When in doubt, lift heavier. "Fewer heavy reps over high reps of light," she writes. "This will focus on building strength and muscle size. Heavy weights challenge your muscles more intensely, leading to greater muscle growth and strength gains. If you can do 10-12 reps in an exercise, it's time to go up in weight and do less reps," she says.

RELATED: Cortisol Expert Lost 35 Pounds After Fixing These 5 Daily Mistakes

Limit the Number of Exercises

It can be tempting to do lots of different exercises, but don't, she says. "Limit the number of exercises," she writes. "4-5 exercises are enough. This way, you can focus more intensely on each movement and maximize the effectiveness of your workout. Prioritizing quality over quantity in your workouts will lead to better progress and performance in the long run." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Mahtab Ekay fitbymahtab
I Lost 20 Pounds as a Coach and Here Are My 6 Secrets to Losing Weight Fast and Not Gaining It Back
Copyright fitbymahtab/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you want to lose weight fast without gaining it all back? According to one expert, it’s possible if you have the right tools. Mahtab Ekay is a fat loss coach and social media influencer who has lost over 20 pounds and helps others do the same. She reveals a few game-changing hacks for sustaining weight loss in a new post. “If you want to lose weight safely by summer 2025 and not gain it all back, here are 6 things you need to do,” she writes.

Start Every Meal with Veggies

Her first tip? Start every meal with veggies. “I know, I know—veggies first isn’t the most exciting, but trust me, it works! 🥦 Starting with veggies fills you up with fiber and nutrients and it will help with preventing glucose spikes and your tendency to binge later,” she says. Some tasty veggie ideas: green salad, edamame, baby carrots, or bell peppers. “Your future self will thank you!)”

Stop Snacking

Her second tip: Stop snacking. “If you’re craving something sweet, save it for dessert after your meal. 🍫 Snacking on an empty stomach can mess with your blood sugar and lead to overeating later,” she writes.

RELATED:5 Walking Techniques That Burn More Fat Than Running

Walk It Out

You also need to start walking. “Walking is a game-changer for fat loss, and there are so many easy ways to add steps,” she says. Her suggestions? Walk your dog, play with your kids, get a walking pad for your desk, go on walking dates or hangouts, or walk while you chat on the phone.

Lift Weight

“Start lifting weights,” she continues. “Not just to burn calories—but to build muscle! The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn at rest. Plus, you’ll look toned and feel stronger!”

RELATED:The Only 4 Exercises You Need for Total-Body Fitness

Hydrate

Tip five, “hydrate, hydrate, hydrate,” she says. “Drink half your body weight in pounds in ounces of water. Staying hydrated keeps you full, helps with digestion, and supports your energy levels. Pro tip: grab a cute water bottle to keep you on track!”

Sleep

Finally, get your sleep in. “Aim for 50 hours of sleep per week. If your schedule doesn’t allow 7 hours per night (shift workers, I see you!), just focus on getting enough over the week. 💤 Sleep is a game-changer for fat loss and mental clarity,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Brittney Blanco
​Greek Chicken Wraps
Copyright bylt.by.britt/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 unsure what you should be eating to lose weight? One expert has the answer. Brittney Blanco is a Macros Nutrition Coach and social media influencer who regularly shares her creative weight loss meal recipes with her followers. “If you want to lose 5 to 10 pounds by Easter, these are the foods I would eat daily,” she writes.

Fuel Your Body the Right Way

,Couple,,Fitness,Gym,muscles,bodybuilderShutterstock

According to Brittney, she understands the ratio of what you should be eating to lose weight. “Want more energy, muscle, and balanced hormones? It all starts with your plate! Here’s how to fuel up the right way,” she says.

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

Prioritize Protein

Fresh chicken eggs​7. EggsShutterstock

First, prioritize protein. “Protein keeps you full, builds muscle, and boosts metabolism. Aim for 0.8-1g per pound of body weight (or at least 100g daily)” she writes. The best sources? Eggs, turkey, chicken, steak, salmon, yogurt, cottage cheese, whey, and tuna. Why? “Helps burn fat, maintain muscle, and curb cravings!” she says.

Eat More Fiber

,Kale,Cabbage,leafy,greens​The Power of Green GuardiansShutterstock

Next, eat more fiber, mostly veggies and fruit. “Fiber supports digestion, gut health, and blood sugar balance. Aim for 25g daily,” she says. The veggies she recommends are broccoli, green beans, kale, asparagus, and zucchini, and fruits, berries, banana, mango, kiwi, and oranges. Why? “Keeps you full and supports a healthy gut!”

Carbs

Boiled quinoa in white bowl on brown wooden table​30. QuinoaShutterstock

Next up carbs, which equal energy. “Carbs fuel your body and workouts. Choose quality sources,” she writes. Best options: Potatoes, quinoa, farro, bulgur, rice. Why? “Prevents energy crashes and supports muscle recovery,” she writes.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Healthy Fats

Chia,Seeds.,Chia,Word,Made,From,Chia,Seeds.,Selective,FocusShutterstop

Amp up your healthy fats intake for hormone balance. “Fats help with hormones, brain health, and nutrient absorption,” she says. Best sources: Egg yolks, avocado, cheese, olive oil, chia seeds, almonds, nut butters. Why? “Supports metabolism, mood, and glowing skin!” she writes.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Build a Balanced Plate

Sock eyed salmon with green beans and lemonShutterstock

Using these sources, build a balanced plate. “Keep it simple,” she urges. Why? “Provides balanced nutrition, steady energy, and prevents cravings!” Here is the plate she recommends.

¼ plate protein 🥩

¼ plate carbs 🍚

Thumb-size healthy fats 🥑

½ plate veggies 🥦

And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

McKenna Olsen mckennahenrie
Woman Added 800 Calories Daily and Lost 10 Pounds Without Exercise in 90 Days
Copyright mckennahenrie/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.

Over the past few years, intermittent fasting has been one of the buzziest terms in weight loss. So, should you try it? McKenna Olsen is an influencer and health coach who recently lost 10 pounds. In a new social media post, she answers the question: Is intermittent fasting beneficial for weight loss? Here is her answer.

Why Intermittent Fasting Is Popular

“Firstly, it’s important to know WHY it’s a popular strategy,” she explains. “It’s not ‘magic’ by any means but it’s popular because it helps to put you in a calorie deficit,” she says. While time restricted eating “can be useful for those who tend to OVERconsume,” not everyone will benefit from it.

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

Cortisol Levels Are Higher in the Morning

Here is why. “Firstly, understand that our cortisol levels are highest in the AM,” she says, “so they are going to be exacerbated if we fast for extended periods.” Also, “if you are active in the morning, it just increases cortisol.” ⁣

Fasting Can Cause a More Rapid Decline in Hormones for Women

“Second, when it comes to hormones, women are MUCH different than men. We already deal with declining sex hormones as we age, so extreme levels of fasting CAN cause a more rapid decline. We also need to keep blood sugar levels more stable. If your body is under chronic stress, it’s going to produce more and more insulin which (based upon severity) can lead to cases like insulin resistance,” she says.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Fasting Can Lead to Undereating During the Day

⁣”Not only can fasting be stressful, but also can lead to undereating during the day (especially if you have a busy life and ALREADY have a hard time eating enough), which leads to ultimately under recovering, especially for those who are active, too, which can cause a cascade of hormonal issues because exercise IS a stressor, so eating insufficient amounts due to extreme levels of fasting can wreck havoc on recovery,” she says.

It Can Also Make You More “Food Focused”

⁣”Lastly, fasting simply can make you more food focused, can sometimes cause hunger hormones to build leading you to overconsume when it does come meal time and for some, lead to an unhealthy relationship with food,” she says.

She Doesn’t Recommend It⁣

Overall, she doesn’t recommend it. “I know intermittent fasting has become a weight loss trend, but it’s mostly because it puts people in a caloric deficit to help control intake if you struggle with overeating,” she says.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Here Is What She Does Recommend⁣

“Working with so many women who have struggled with yo-yo dieting, I have found eating regular balanced meals, nourishing their bodies properly and regularly is more sustainable and healthier hormonally, for the long term,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.