And this year that feeling’s likely to be stronger than ever, as we continue to slowly emerge from the worst of the pandemic.
For many of us, becoming slimmer, fitter and healthier will be at the top of the list of our New Year’s resolutions for 2022. Spending so much time indoors, often coupled with more indulgent food choices and disrupted routines, saw many healthy habits fall by the wayside during the pandemic – and then Christmas rounded it off. Let’s not forget, getting into great shape is the very best thing that we can do for our long-term health.
If you’re ready to make 2022 the year that you take control, lose weight, get fitter and gain confidence, read on.
Here are seven secrets of success – all backed up by the latest research into weight loss and behaviour change, from local weight loss expert Joanna Mortimore from Slimming World.
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Losing weight could be easier than you think
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Myth 5: You can’t have any treats if you want to slim down. An all-or-nothing approach is rarely effective when it comes to weight loss. Restricting yourself when it comes to food and drink might work in the short-term, but pretty soon you’ll be fed up, hungry and giving up completely. A little bit of what you fancy is key. That might be a Saturday night glass of wine or a bit of chocolate in the evenings. Whatever it is for you, having a flexible approach and a balanced mindset is much more likely to deliver long-term success.
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Myth 6: Weight loss is really hard and will feel like a punishment. Be kind to yourself, says Joanna. It’s all too easy to go off track. It’s what you do next that matters most – and the most important thing is not to beat yourself up about it. We all have set backs and we give ourselves a hard time. Imagine how you’d talk to a friend. Being kind to yourself will mean you will quickly get back to healthy eating, lost weight and keep it off. So, cut yourself some slack!
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Myth 7: Only you, and you alone, can bring positive change to your life. Studies show that embarking on your weight loss journey alongside other slimmers, in groups such as Slimming World, brings more success than going it alone – sharing the ups and down, having cheerleaders who are on your side, and sharing advice and tips. Search online to find weight loss groups near you.