How to lose weight fast

How to lose weight fast

Whether it’s your wedding, someone else’s wedding or an imminent holiday that’s got you worrying over your weight, there are just so many reasons why some of us feel pressure to shed the pounds, quickly. While a slow and steady weight-loss plan is far more likely to keep the weight off, sometimes time is not a luxury we have on our side. Whatever you do, make sure the method you opt for is safe, healthy and doesn’t make you miserable.

No carbs before Marbs

Okay, so you might not be going to Marbella, but watching the amount of carbohydrates you’re eating could well put you on the right path to blast those pounds. Try to get your main intake from vegetables and lower-GI carbs like sweet potato, and the high-protein quinoa. It’s also important to keep energy levels up by ensuring your intake of proteins and healthy fats (think avocado, Greek yogurt and coconut oil) are spot on, or you’ll be left feeling a bit under par.

Get intense

We’re not going to knock any types of exercise – staying active is good for your health, whether you’re a cross-trainer kind of girl or a powerlifting lover. But if fat loss is your immediate goal, make the switch from slow and steady cardio to high-intensity interval training. While being a cardio queen can certainly keep you fit, periods of high-intensity during a workout are more effective at burning fat, thanks to their ability to raise your metabolism for a longer period of time. Incorporate sprints into your cardio and try circuit training, too.

Keep it compound

Your secret weight-loss weapon? It’s got to be muscle. Frankly, the more of it you have, the higher your resting metabolism – which means that your body is more efficient at burning fat whether you’re exercising or lounging in your PJs! The best way to increase lean muscle mass is to perform compound exercises in your workouts. Compound exercises are ones that work multiple muscle groups all at once. For example, while a biceps curl is great for toning the biceps, a move like the pull-up will not only work the biceps but also the back and shoulders. Stick to compound moves like the squat, press-up and deadlift for the fastest fat-loss results.

Give it a (short) rest

Workout routines should always differ from goal to goal. Taking longer rests between sets when doing your weights is definitely a smart move when focusing on increasing strength, but while fat loss is the priority, keep these rests as short as possible to keep your heart rate up. This will take your weights routine into the high-intensity territory, boosting metabolism and bringing the muscles to fatigue to create an after burn effect – the ability to burn fat after your workout is over. Who wouldn’t want that!?