The Best Exercise & Diet Plans

If you’re ready to stop bouncing like a yo-yo, take steps to make better diet and exercise choices. The right diet and exercise plan should work for your body and lifestyle so that you can stick to it. Long-term maintenance strategies are essential to stop the on-again/off-again diet train. Some diet and exercise plans have a reputation for success, providing the key building blocks to healthier living.

Weight Watchers

This diet plan is a classic but remains one of the best, incorporating up-to-date information on weight loss and exercise into both brick-and-mortar meetings and an online site. Fundamentally, Weight Watchers works by controlling calorie intake. Exercise is encouraged, and you can choose a fitness program that works well for your lifestyle and personal needs. In the long run, Weight Watchers offers maintenance support and teaches you about food choices and portion control, allowing for a positive lifestyle change.

Quick Weight Loss

If you want to lose weight quickly, it can be done safely and appropriately. This plan can work well before a big event or just when you need to kick-start your diet and be your own Biggest Loser. Cut your calories to around seven calories per pound of current body weight, according to WebMD. Avoid dropping below 1,050 calories per day. Drink plenty of water, and eat primarily vegetables, fresh fruit, lean protein and fat-free dairy products. Incorporate one hour of cardiovascular exercise each day, along with several hours of strength training per week. You can split your hour into morning and evening workouts if that better fits your schedule.

Personalized Plans

If you have special dietary needs or are just starting a fitness plan, you may find it helpful to work with a professional. A dietitian can help you create a reduced-calorie plan that fits your doctor’s recommendations in cases of heart disease or diabetes, according to the Mayo Clinic. In some cases, your health insurance may even pick up the tab. If you have a health club or YMCA membership, you may find that you can meet with a personal trainer to create your own fitness regimen free of charge or for a low cost. Even one meeting with a trainer can help you learn what you should do to slim down and get in shape.