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I Lost 60 Pounds With These 7 Exercises Everyone Can Do

Try this full-body exercise circuit at home.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJun 04, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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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.

Kiki_kikivirk
kikivirk/TikTok
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJun 04, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
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.

Nutrition & Diet

Kiki (@kikivirk) is a weight loss influencer who has amassed a social media following for sharing all the tips and tricks that enabled her to lose a whopping 60 pounds and keep it off. In one of her viral videos, she revealed the exercise circuit that helped her achieve all of her weight loss goals. “I lost 60 pounds training like this 3-4x week,” she writes in the video. The Body Network also consulted Kendra Gamble, HIT Fitness Training, Huntingdon Valley, PA, NPTI Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritional Consultant to explain how each of the exercises is helpful.

1. Cross Trainer Warm Up

@kikivirk

let’s Train Together on Tuesdays 🔥 SAVE + burn fat healthy besties 🫶🏽 #gymroutine #weighttrainingforwomen #weightlossworkout #strengthtrainingforwomen #weightlossmotivation #workoutsforbeginners ##fullbodyworkout

Kiki starts by warming up on the crosstrainer for 5 minutes and then moves on to her exercises. According to Gamble, warming up for a minutes – whether you walk or do the elliptical – is a good way to get your body ready for weight training.

2. Dumbbell Chest Press

Young woman bench pressing with dumbbells in the gym, working triceps and chestShutterstock

Kiki starts with a dumbbell chest press, doing 8 reps and 3 sets. The exercise “mainly works pectoralis major (chest), anterior delt (front part of shoulder) and triceps (back part of arms)” says Gamble.

Related: These 7 “Efficient Girl” Tips Will Help You Lose Weight Fast

3. Cable Lat Pull Downs

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

Next up , cable lat pull downs. She does 15 reps and 3 sets. “The exercise works your back muscles aka, lats (hence the name) teres major, traps, and your biceps (front part of your arms)” says Gable. “This exercise can be done in many different variations.”

4. Single Leg Press

woman flexing muscles on leg press machine in gymShutterstock

Her third exercise is single leg press, 6 reps/side and 3 sets. The exercise “works your quads (front part of legs), glutes (booty), hamstrings (back of legs) and calves, depending on what you are trying to target more,” she explains, “If you want more glute than have your foot placement higher on the press for less knee flexion but if you want to hit more quads have your foot placement lower for more knee flexion.”

5. Reverse Dumbbell Lunges

Brunette female in good shape wearing white top and beige leggins doing lunges and holding blue dumbbells in hands, working out legs, looking straight ahead with serious expression.Shutterstock

Then, she does reverse dumbbell lunges 8 reps/leg and 3 sets. “This is an excellent exercise for glute (booty growth) especially if you are trying to focus less on quads and more on glutes,” says Gable. “I would recommend doing them off of a step or some type of elevated surface to give your glute more of a stretch.”

6. Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Fitness woman in sportswear trains shoulder muscles, doing dumbbell press while sitting on bench in gym. Back viewShutterstock

She moves onto the dumbbell shoulder press, doing 8 reps/side and 2-3 sets. This works “mostly anterior delt (front part of shoulder) but also a little bit of your pecs and triceps,” says Gamble.

Related: #1 Mistake to Avoid When Trying to Burn Belly Fat

7. Barbell Row

Athletic woman doing barbell rows in the gymShutterstock

Her last exercise is the barbell row, doing 6-8 reps and 3 sets. “It works your lats, traps, teres major, biceps and other smaller muscles in your back,” says Gamble.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you can afford it, investing in a session with a personal trainer is a great idea. Not only can they tailor an exercise to your fitness goals, but can also demonstrate how to properly do each exercise.

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Coach Reveals 5 Ways She Dropped 100 Pounds

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary
Coach Dropped 100 Pounds After She Stopped Believing These 5 Lies
Copyright balancebyhilary/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 11, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Are you struggling to lose weight? You might need to make some lifestyle shifts, says one weight loss warrior-slash-expert. Hilary Carver is a fat loss coach who lost 100 pounds naturally and helps her clients do the same. In a new post, she reveals a few key things she learned on her journey that can help you lose weight as well. “I lost 100 pounds naturally. Here’s what I learned,” she writes.

She Started Taking Action

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number FiveCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

“A decade ago, I stood exactly where you are. I felt stuck in my body. Tired. Frustrated. Overwhelmed by the thought of starting again because, honestly, I wasn’t sure if I could follow through this time. But something shifted. I realized that if I wanted my life to change, I had to stop waiting for the ‘perfect time’ and start taking imperfect action,” she says.

She Lost 100 Pounds with No Crash Diets or Quick Fixes

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number FourCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

“Over the next few years, I lost 100 pounds naturally. No crash diets. No quick fixes. I followed the exact framework I teach my clients—and it didn’t just transform my body... it changed my life. Here are the MOST important lessons I learned along the way,” she continued.

You Can’t Outwork a Bad Diet

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Overcoming These 5 Lies Helped Her Lose 100 PoundsCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

First, she learned that you can’t outwork a bad diet. “For years, I thought I could exercise my way to results without addressing what I was eating. Spoiler: It didn’t work. When I finally learned how to make meal prep & planning simple, track my food without obsessing, and eat in a way that didn’t feel restrictive—everything changed,” she writes.

Mindset is the Real Work

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number OneCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

Next, she realized that changing her mindset is the hardest part. “I had to face the excuses, the self-sabotage, and the limiting beliefs that kept me stuck. It wasn’t about motivation—it was about choosing to show up for myself, even on the hard days,” she says.

Your Lifestyle Will Make or Break You

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number TwoCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

Lifestyle is also important. “The secret to losing 100 pounds wasn’t in doing more. It was in building small, consistent habits that worked with my life—not against it. These small changes stacked up into a BIG transformation,” she says.

Nobody Is Coming to Save You

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number ThreeCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

She also learned that “nobody is coming to save you.” “This one stings, but it’s the truth: If you want the transformation, you have to take accountability. You have to stop blaming your circumstances and start owning your choices. The moment I stopped making excuses, I started making progress.”

It’s Worth It

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​You Can Become the Person You Want to BeCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

“This journey isn’t just about losing weight. It’s about gaining confidence, energy, and control over your life. It’s about becoming the version of you who feels proud when she looks in the mirror,” she concludes. “I know how overwhelming it feels to start, but I also know what’s waiting for you on the other side of your excuses—and it is SO worth it.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

I'm 45 and Lost 60 Pounds

Martin Balcaitis
Copyright Martin Balcaitis
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackFeb 24, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio

If you've ever felt frustrated with dieting, you're not alone. After 15 years of trying different weight loss approaches, Martin Balcaitis, 45, Senior Vice President of Operations at Lindora in Orange County, California, finally discovered the game-changing mistake that had been holding him back all along. His transformation story proves that sometimes the smallest changes can lead to the biggest results.

The Wake-Up Call

Martin Balcaitis

Copyright Martin Balcaitis

"I feel like I've always been trying to lose weight!" Martin tells Body Network. "But now that I'm in my mid-40s, I know that it isn't so much about the number on the scale, but my overall health for longevity – that was my real motivator this time around."

The Crucial Discovery

Woman in gloves puts raw chicken breasts in a plate on a digital weighing scale to prepare delicious food at home. Homemade cooking concept.​Understanding True Protein ContentShutterstock

Standing at 5'9" and weighing 222 pounds, Martin thought he had tried everything. Then came the revelation that changed everything: "I thought I was eating a correct portion for myself, but eyeballing wasn't my friend," he admits. "A food scale was crucial to my success."

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

The Transformation

Martin Balcaitis

Copyright Martin Balcaitis

The results speak for themselves. In just six months, Martin dropped from 222 pounds to 165 pounds, achieving a remarkable transformation in his body composition. "My overall body fat percentage went from 36% to 15% in 6 months," he shares proudly.

A New Approach to Food

Man eats, eating​What To Do InsteadShutterstock

Unlike previous attempts at weight loss, Martin's new strategy didn't involve cutting out foods entirely. "I haven't eliminated anything – which is great!" he explains. "I simply know how to manage portions and adjust my eating that day if I know I'm going to have something decadent or high-carb during the day."

A Day of Measured Eating

Woman hands breaking an egg to separate egg white and yolks and egg shells at the backgroundShutterstock

Martin's daily menu is both satisfying and strategic. "Breakfast is typically one egg, some egg whites and cottage cheese blended in what I call my 'protein eggs' with spinach and some meat," he says. "Lunch will be a salad with a yogurt-based dressing and dinner is roasted vegetables and lean protein – also three Lindora snacks too!"

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

The Workout Strategy

Gym and dumbbell weight training equipment on sport ,Healthy life and gym exercise equipments and sports concept ,copy spaceShutterstock

Time management proved to be another crucial lesson. "Time can always get the best of us so I make sure to workout in the morning," Martin explains. "I make too many excuses to not go to the gym after work." His dedication has paid off: "I can actually see some abs poking through now!"

Dealing with Setbacks

Within gym with modern fitness equipment for fitness events and more. Modern of gym interior with equipment. Sports equipment in the gym.Shutterstock

Martin maintains a realistic approach to challenges. "Sometimes the motivation just isn't there and you have to tell yourself that it's a marathon, not a sprint," he reflects. "Don't beat yourself up if you skip a workout or can't go the distance you wanted to."

The Power of Accountability

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Making the journey public became a powerful tool. "Be vocal about it. I told people I was trying to lose weight to help hold me accountable," he advises. His commitment extended to his wardrobe: "I donated clothes once they were too big for me – I didn't want to buy big clothes again, so I had to keep going!"

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

A Science-Based Approach

Measuring,Body,Composition,Balance,,Standing,On,The,Medical,ScalesShutterstock

Martin emphasizes the importance of data in his success. "Knowledge is power, so I would encourage everyone to get a body composition analysis done so they have a true understanding of what their numbers are to make a plan of attack," he recommends.

The Path to Success

Social media and digital online concept, man using smart phone with Social media. The concept of living on vacation and playing social media. Social Distancing ,Working From Home concept.Shutterstock

For those inspired by his journey, Martin offers encouraging advice: "Just start! You don't have to wait for a certain day, you don't have to have a big goal in mind – just take little steps and once you see some progress it will motivate you to keep going."

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Maintaining Momentum

Successful man raising arms after cross track running on summer sunset. Fitness male athlete with arms up celebrating success and goals after sport exercising and working out.Shutterstock

His approach to staying motivated remains practical and empowering. "If I am feeling badly about my body – it is 100% in my control to fix it," he states. "Having a plan and solutions is the answer and putting that plan into action is key." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

I Lost 60 Pounds With These 7 Exercises Everyone Can Do

Kiki_kikivirk
kikivirk/TikTok
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJun 04, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
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.

Kiki (@kikivirk) is a weight loss influencer who has amassed a social media following for sharing all the tips and tricks that enabled her to lose a whopping 60 pounds and keep it off. In one of her viral videos, she revealed the exercise circuit that helped her achieve all of her weight loss goals. “I lost 60 pounds training like this 3-4x week,” she writes in the video. The Body Network also consulted Kendra Gamble, HIT Fitness Training, Huntingdon Valley, PA, NPTI Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritional Consultant to explain how each of the exercises is helpful.

1. Cross Trainer Warm Up

@kikivirk

let’s Train Together on Tuesdays 🔥 SAVE + burn fat healthy besties 🫶🏽 #gymroutine #weighttrainingforwomen #weightlossworkout #strengthtrainingforwomen #weightlossmotivation #workoutsforbeginners ##fullbodyworkout

Kiki starts by warming up on the crosstrainer for 5 minutes and then moves on to her exercises. According to Gamble, warming up for a minutes – whether you walk or do the elliptical – is a good way to get your body ready for weight training.

2. Dumbbell Chest Press

Young woman bench pressing with dumbbells in the gym, working triceps and chestShutterstock

Kiki starts with a dumbbell chest press, doing 8 reps and 3 sets. The exercise “mainly works pectoralis major (chest), anterior delt (front part of shoulder) and triceps (back part of arms)” says Gamble.

Related: These 7 “Efficient Girl” Tips Will Help You Lose Weight Fast

3. Cable Lat Pull Downs

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

Next up , cable lat pull downs. She does 15 reps and 3 sets. “The exercise works your back muscles aka, lats (hence the name) teres major, traps, and your biceps (front part of your arms)” says Gable. “This exercise can be done in many different variations.”

4. Single Leg Press

woman flexing muscles on leg press machine in gymShutterstock

Her third exercise is single leg press, 6 reps/side and 3 sets. The exercise “works your quads (front part of legs), glutes (booty), hamstrings (back of legs) and calves, depending on what you are trying to target more,” she explains, “If you want more glute than have your foot placement higher on the press for less knee flexion but if you want to hit more quads have your foot placement lower for more knee flexion.”

5. Reverse Dumbbell Lunges

Brunette female in good shape wearing white top and beige leggins doing lunges and holding blue dumbbells in hands, working out legs, looking straight ahead with serious expression.Shutterstock

Then, she does reverse dumbbell lunges 8 reps/leg and 3 sets. “This is an excellent exercise for glute (booty growth) especially if you are trying to focus less on quads and more on glutes,” says Gable. “I would recommend doing them off of a step or some type of elevated surface to give your glute more of a stretch.”

6. Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Fitness woman in sportswear trains shoulder muscles, doing dumbbell press while sitting on bench in gym. Back viewShutterstock

She moves onto the dumbbell shoulder press, doing 8 reps/side and 2-3 sets. This works “mostly anterior delt (front part of shoulder) but also a little bit of your pecs and triceps,” says Gamble.

Related: #1 Mistake to Avoid When Trying to Burn Belly Fat

7. Barbell Row

Athletic woman doing barbell rows in the gymShutterstock

Her last exercise is the barbell row, doing 6-8 reps and 3 sets. “It works your lats, traps, teres major, biceps and other smaller muscles in your back,” says Gamble.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you can afford it, investing in a session with a personal trainer is a great idea. Not only can they tailor an exercise to your fitness goals, but can also demonstrate how to properly do each exercise.

Nutrition & Diet

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

Shawndra_Sublett2
Shawndra Sublett
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJun 23, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
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.

Shawndra Sublett, Lead Teacher, YogaSix DTC, is a yoga instructor on a mission: To help other people become the best version of themselves while reaping the mental and physical health benefits of yoga. She herself lost a whopping 60 pounds by combining yoga with other workouts. “For me, the hardest part of my fitness routine is keeping it a priority. It is easy to make excuses, to get too busy, or to not have the energy to keep up with it,” she tells The Body Network. One of her main tools? She keeps her goals “small and achievable” and doesn’t beat herself up if she misses a workout. “Find a way to implement workouts with friends, try new activities that involve movement, get out of your comfort zone and make it an activity that's enjoyable instead of something to check off your list,” she says. Here are some of the workouts that helped her achieve her weight loss goals.

She Has a “Hybrid Workout Routine”

Shawndra_Sublett3Shawndra Sublett

Shawndra doesn’t rely on a single workout to keep her mentally and physically fit. “I have come to love a hybrid exercise routine! I think that variety in your fitness is key to success,” she tells us.

Related: #1 Way to Flatten Your Stomach for Women, According to a Pelvic Floor Expert

Strength and Weight Training

,Dumbbells,,,Rack,hym,weights, fitness, exerciseShutterstock

“Outside of my daily routine, I have found tremendous benefit from implementing a weight lifting routine three times a week,” she says. “This helps keep up my overall strength and has supported my day to day functionality overall.” Her exercises included shoulder presses, to “build overall shoulder size and development,” side lateral raises to make her waistline smaller, body weight squats, and “effective” move that “can be done anywhere and work the entire body and so many variations,” and planks, which also “can be done anywhere, target the entire body, strengthens the core” and can be done in “so many variations.”

Hot or Power Yoga

Shawndra_SublettShawndra Sublett

She also takes a hot or power yoga class “to jumpstart my day, regulate my mood, set my mind up, and increase my overall heart health,” says Shawndra.

Walks

Woman walking cross country and trail in autumn forestShutterstock

Shawndra also gets her steps in. “It is a critical component for me to get outside and walk my dog a couple miles at lunch daily. This helps break the day, allows time for fresh air and sunshine and is a mood boost mid-day,” she says.

Deep Stretch

Silhouette of a fitness woman profile stretching at sunrise with the sun in the backgroundShutterstock

Shawndra makes sure to stretch. “To counter the energy, I implement a deep stretch routine (often times with red-light therapy) to slow down, recenter myself, and release any mental and physical stress I've accumulated throughout the day,” she says.

Related: Brittany Lupton Shows Off Abs in “Full Body Burn” Workout Video

Adding New Fitness Activities a Few Times a Month

Shawndra-Sublett4Shawndra Sublett

In addition to these exercises, Shawndra “loves” implementing a new fitness activity two to three per month, “hiking, paddle boarding, rock climbing, you name it, I'm there,” she says. “As an adventure seeker myself, I find so much joy in learning new things and pushing my limits. Exercise is a gift! I've cultivated a life around fitness, mobility, and movement. Keep it fun!”

💪🔥Body Booster: In addition to your gym workouts and other regular exercise routines, try incorporating a few new calorie blasting activities into your routine to keep things fresh and exciting.

Shawndra is passionate about bringing her offerings to the community and stands as a reminder that ANYONE can achieve their goals with the right support system. Mention this article and join her for a FREE class as her guest at YogaSix DTC.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 50 Pounds in 6 Months With These 7 Strategies

Addie Gibson addiepowerr
Copyright addiepower_/Instagram/Shutterstock
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 03, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
✓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.

Fitness Coach Addie Gibson lost 50 pounds in six months by making some very simple changes. Gibson details her weight loss journey online, explaining exactly how she torched the fat and got fit. One major part of her fitness routine was being active every single day, which helped boost her metabolism and made her regimen even more effective. Here’s exactly how she did it.

Strength Training

@addiepowerr

#stitch with @Addie Gibson 3 things i did to lose 50lbs! #weightloss #weightlosstransformations #fitnesscoach

Gibson did strength training 3-4 times a week. “Strength training helps you lose weight and keep it off by building muscle tissue,” according to Corewell Health. “The more muscle mass you have, the higher your metabolic rate tends to be. More muscle also helps your body burn more fat than muscle, which is important if you want to lose weight and keep your strength.”

Aerobic Exercise Every Day

Gibson walked 10k steps every day, which is a highly effective form of aerobic exercise. “As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day,” says the Mayo Clinic. “If you want to lose weight, maintain weight loss or meet specific fitness goals, you may need to exercise more.”

Calorie Deficit

Gibson made sure she was eating fewer calories than she was burning off. “Your weight is a balancing act, but the equation is simple,” says the Mayo Clinic. “If you eat more calories than you burn, you gain weight. And if you eat fewer calories and burn more calories through physical activity, you lose weight.”

Lots of Water

Gibson drank a gallon of water a day as part of her weight loss program. "Thirst, which is triggered by mild dehydration, is often mistaken for hunger by the brain," Melina Jampolis, an internist and board-certified physician nutrition specialist, tells Johns Hopkins University. "You may be able to decrease appetite by drinking water if you are, in fact, low in water, not calories."

Healthy Snacks

Gibson indulged in low-calorie, high-volume snacks like watermelon with Tajin seasoning. “Because 90% of a watermelon’s weight is water, it’s one of the best fruits to eat if you’re trying to lose weight,” according to Keck Medicine. “A 100-gram serving contains only 30 calories. It’s also a great source of an amino acid called arginine, which has been shown to help burn fat quickly.”

High-Protein Coffee

Gibson added protein to her coffee for an extra boost. “You can use protein coffee as a meal replacement. It's a quick and easy way to fuel up for a busy morning,” registered dietitian Kimmie Sharp, MMN, RDN, LMNT, LD, tells UNL Health. “However, many powders lack essential vitamins, minerals or healthy fats. Some protein powders contain much more protein than you need, which could cause weight gain. If your goal is to lose weight, a shake specifically formulated to replace a meal is a better option.”

Creatine Supplements

Gibson takes creatine supplements to support her fitness regimen. “Oral creatine use might allow an athlete to do more work during reps or sprints, leading to greater gains in strength, muscle mass and performance,” says the Mayo Clinic. “Creatine is often used by athletes involved in high-intensity intermittent activities that require a rapid recovery during training and competition.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Even taking a brisk walk can help burn fat and boost weight loss.

Nutrition & Diet

Doctor Eats These 10 Foods Daily to Mimic Ozempic

Tess Thomas drtessthomas
Copyright drtessthomas/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 09, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio

Do you want to lose weight without taking Ozempic or another GLP-1 weight loss drug? There are foods you can eat to trigger the same hormones. Tess Thomas, DO, is a board-certified family Doctor with 20+ years of experience helping busy women reverse pre-diabetes, lose weight, and stop playing tug-of-war with their blood sugar. In a new social media post, she reveals the food she eats daily that “mimics” Ozempic. “You don’t need a prescription to start regulating hunger, reducing cravings, and improving blood sugar…You just need foods that work with your body’s natural GLP-1 hormone. These 10 are the real MVPs,” she writes.

Avocados

Avocado on rustic wooden table. Raw Fruits healthy green food concept.​AvocadoShutterstock

The first food she recommends is avocado. “Loaded with healthy fats that slow digestion, keep you full, and help prevent blood sugar spikes. Plus, they’re packed with fiber!” she says.

Lentils

Red,Lentils,In,Bowl.,Dry,Orange,Lentil,Grains,,Heap,Of​LegumesShutterstock

Next up, lentils. “A plant-based powerhouse. Full of fiber and protein, they help blunt blood sugar surges and keep you full for hours,” she says.

Chia Seeds

Organic,Dry,Black,And,White,Chia,Seeds,Against,A,BackgroundShutterstock

Chia seeds are another great weight loss food. “Absorb water and expand in your stomach, creating a gel that slows digestion and increases fullness — naturally reducing how much you eat,” she says.

Eggs

hard,Boiled,Eggs,protein,breakfast​Don’t Skip BreakfastShutterstock

Eggs should also be on your shopping list. “High in protein and essential nutrients. Eggs help lower levels of ghrelin (your hunger hormone) and stabilize your appetite all morning long,” she explains.

Farro or Quinoa

Cooked Organic Farro Grain in a Bowl for Dinner​Protein-Packed Farro SaladShutterstock

Both farro and quinoa are great for weight loss. “Unlike refined grains, these ancient grains are rich in fiber and protein — meaning fewer crashes and more steady energy,” she says.

Kefir or Greek Yogurt

Milk,Kefir,Grains,Spoon, probiotics, health, gut, food, diet​Probiotic Foods: Kefir Greek YogurtShutterstock

Don’t sleep on kefir and Greek Yogurt. “Great for gut health, which is closely tied to blood sugar control. The protein content also helps regulate hunger hormones,” she says.

Zucchini or Cauliflower

several zucchini isolated on a wooden table9. Zucchini: 17 caloriesShutterstock

Add zucchini and cauliflower to your shopping list. “These low-calorie, high-volume veggies add bulk to meals without raising blood sugar — so you feel full on fewer calories,” she says.

Rotisserie Chicken or Tofu

Homemade chicken rotisserie with thyme, lemon closeup on a slate board on the table. Horizontal top view from above​Buffalo Chicken Lettuce WrapsShutterstock

Two great protein sources? Rotisserie chicken or tofu. “Convenient, lean protein sources that help preserve muscle, increase satiety, and keep your metabolism humming,” she says.

Sardines or Salmon

Grilled sardines on a plate, All Saints, 'Santos Populares' holidays in Lisbon in JuneShutterstock

She also recommends sardines and salmon. “Rich in omega-3s and protein, they help reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and regulate appetite.”

Apples or Pears (with skin)

Pear tree. Ripe pears on a tree in a garden​PearsShutterstock

The last item on her list? Apples or pears. “Packed with fiber and antioxidants — they slow glucose absorption and support gut health and fullness,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Nutrition & Diet

Pharmacist Lost 35 Lbs on a GLP-1: 5 Things

Lindsey Guldenschuh pharmacist_lindsey
Copyright pharmacist_lindsey/Instagram/Shutterstock
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 09, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
✓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 taking Ozempic or another weight loss drug and not getting the desired results? One expert-slash-weight loss warrior has some advice for you. Lindsey Guldenschuh is a pharmacist who shares information with her followers about GLP-1 drugs, as both an expert and someone on them. In a new post, she reveals the key habits responsible for her weight loss success. “I’ve lost 35 lbs on a GLP-1 by sticking to these five non-negotiables,” she writes, going on to reveal the five things she prioritized.

Prioritizing Protein

The first habit was prioritizing protein. “I aim for at least 100g of protein daily, which keeps me full, supports muscle, and makes hitting my goals way easier. Protein coffee in the morning is a staple!” she writes.

Eating in a Calorie Deficit (with GLP-1 Support)

calorie counting app on smartphone screen. Counting calories on a diet. Weight loss​Create a Slight Calorie DeficitShutterstock

Next, she eats in a calorie deficit with GLP-1 support. “I use the FatCalc calculator to figure out my deficit, and thanks to the appetite suppression from my GLP-1, I can actually stick to it without food noise running the show,” she says.

Moving Her Body Daily

Happy woman running with a weighted vest​She Walked with a Weighted VestShutterstock

The third habit she swears by is exercising, moving her body daily. “Started with simple walking, then added a weighted vest to level it up. I walk during work breaks, at baseball practice, or on my walking pad—my goal is 7,500 steps/day and 3–4 strength workouts/week,” she writes.

Hydrating Like It’s Her Job

Young woman in black sport outfit resting and drinking water after running.​3. Drink More WaterShutterstock

She also makes sure to hydrate. “I drink 100+ oz of water daily, and start my mornings with electrolytes to boost energy, digestion, and overall well-being,” she says.

“Being Boring on Purpose”

delicious grilled steak meat with vegetables on barbecue grill with smoke and flames. popular outdoor summer activity for friends and familyShutterstock

Being boring on purpose,” is also important, she claims. “I keep my meals simple and repeatable with a few high-protein staples I rotate weekly. No complicated recipes, just a doable routine that makes tracking and staying consistent so much easier,” she writes.

Sustainable Habits Are Key

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The bottom line? Sustainable habits are key, she says. “No magic, no perfection—just structure, support, and habits I can stick with thanks to the help of my glp-1.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Fitness & Workouts

The 5 Daily Habits the Strongest People Over 50 Swear By,

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4 Signs You Are Eating Too Much Protein to Lose Fat
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Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 08, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you trying to incorporate healthy habits into your life, so you can get stronger and lose weight? According to one expert, there are some everyday habits that the fittest people have in common. Jon Williams is a fat loss expert and fitness trainer who helps men and women lose 20-plus pounds of body fat. In a new post, he reveals the top 5 habits of the “strongest people 50+” in the gym for a week. Here is what he learned from observing them:

They Have Consistent Training Schedules

“I noticed that the strongest people in the gym have a consistent training schedule. They treat their workouts as a non-negotiable part of their day, which helps them build muscle and improve their overall strength over time,” he says.

They Lift Weights and Split Days

Athlete,Dumbbell, Bodybuilding, weights, lifting, exercise, gym, weights​Fundamental 2: Strength Train at Least Three Times a WeekShutterstock

“I observed that they focus on lifting weights each day,” he says. “Doing specific splits: such as lower and core days, or push and pull days. Engaging multiple muscle groups and promoting overall functional fitness.” According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills.

They Pay Attention to Nutrition

Sporty,Muscular,Man,Pouring,Protein,Powder,Into,Bottle,For,Shake​Dessert Without GuiltShutterstock

“It’s clear that they pay attention to their nutrition. They seem to make sure they’re eating enough protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs, which supports muscle recovery and gives them the energy they need for intense workouts,” he continues. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

They Have “Strong Mental Resilience”

“I can see that they have strong mental resilience and set clear goals. This mindset helps them push through challenges and stay committed to their fitness journey, even when things get tough. They are very consistent, same time every day,” he says.

The Prioritize Recovery

In addition to doing work, they rest. “They also prioritize recovery practices. Whether it’s stretching, foam rolling, or getting enough sleep, they understand how crucial it is to recover. Most do saunas and cold plunges,” he concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

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