For many of us, this summer will be the first time in three years that we have had a proper sunshine holiday. If you would like to lose weight and hit the beach feeling fitter and healthier, local weight-loss expert Maura O’Connor, from Slimming World, shares her top tips on how making small changes now can get you on track for a slimmer summer.
Set a goal
Research shows that if you set yourself a goal, you are more likely to achieve it – and the more ambitious the better. “Setting an ambitious target can help you visualise what you’re capable of,” says Maura. “Your big goal is your destination; mini targets are milestones along the way. Every time you achieve one it will give you a sense of achievement and motivate you on to the next step.”
Spring into action
Make the most of longer days and warmer weather and head out for some fresh-air fitness. A study from the University of Exeter shows that, compared with indoor workouts, exercising in a natural environment is associated with greater feelings of happiness and wellbeing, as well as increased energy levels
Get creative in the kitchen
Discover your inner Jamie Oliver and cook meals from scratch with healthy seasonal ingredients like salad vegetables and new potatoes, or dig out the barbecue and get grilling lean meat, fish, and veg. And remember, losing weight does not have to mean going hungry. A study by the University of Leeds found that eating a diet based around low energy density foods — such as fresh fruit and veg, lean meat and poultry, pasta, rice and grains — is more effective for weight loss than traditional calorie counting.
Spritz up your summer
There is nothing nicer than sitting outdoors on a sunny summer evening enjoying a drink with friends, yet alcohol can be a real obstacle if you are trying to lose weight. As well as the calories in alcohol, Slimming World’s research into the impact of alcohol on weight revealed that having just slightly too much to drink can lead to us drinking and eating far more than we intended, and as a result can impact hugely on our weight. The good news is that by making small changes to your drinking habits, you can still enjoy alcohol in moderation and manage your weight loss.
Build healthy new habits
We are all creatures of habit, and having a routine can be a lifesaver when you are busy. However, research from the University of Hertfordshire has found that when routines get overly rigid, it can be hard to change a habit even if we know it’s not helpful. Maura O'Connor says: “At Slimming World we’ve got a deep understanding of the psychology behind successful weight loss, and our groups are all about getting support to build healthy new habits around food and activity.”
Maura O'Connor’s Slimming World groups run every Tuesday in the Menlo Park Hotel, and in Gort Community Centre every Thursday morning. Call/text 087 2768935 for more information.
