Hit a Plateau

cmcook92

I made the decision to change my lifestyle back in April. I worked out 4 days a week and drastically changed my eating habits. I've been more active because my summer research was a lot of field work so I was very active. Many days I wasn't able to go to the gym because the gym at school closed and it would be getting dark out (you don't go for a run in the evening around here). I have kept up my relatively healthy eating. Because meals weren't provided I had to find food for myself. I've been eating basically the same things (fruits, veggies, sandwiches, a few smart ones tv dinners, lots of yogurt) for the past 6 weeks. I have hit a plateau in my weight loss after losing 13 pounds. I know I'm approaching a healthy weight so it is going to be more difficult to lose the last 9 pounds. I was just hoping I could get some tips and advice on how to push past this plateau? Once I get home for the summer this weekend I won't have a gym available to me. I usually run two miles everyday when home and the apartment complex has a workout room I'm going to use, not sure what is available there though. But yeah, I'm just hoping for some pointers? Maybe switch up the diet finally now that I can have some variety? Not too sure how to get out of the rut...

newlife888

Sometimes calorie cycling can help. This personalized calculator also has info and suggestions about how to cycle "zig-zag" calories. http://www.freedieting.com/tools/calorie_calculator.htm ... In my opinion you are entering a phase of your weight loss that is very tough. Don't give up and keep going!

DancingMoosie

I like to mix up my workouts. I do lots of videos, but the gym works, too. Cardio 3-4 days, lifting 2 days or circuit training, yoga or pilates 1-2 days. Instead of running 2 miles everyday, run 2 miles one day, then 3, then HIIT. As far as diet goes, make sure you are getting lots of protein and fruits/vegetables. You can almost eat as many veggies as you want and pair them with a lean protein, and then just cut back on white carbs (like bread, pastas, rice, instant mashed potato, chips, sugar).

r_balogh

Dont forget a plateau could simply mean losing inches instead of pounds as your body keeps changing. I know I'm currently at a plateau but my clothes have started falling off me and I've got a ton more energy/ strength allowing me to push harder during workouts. I wouldn't worry too much just keep pushing through it.

Deejae2013

I've had many plateau's during my weight loss, I think it's something that just happens. I've always been able to move on and lose more after some time. I'm currently at a plateau now and I don't like either. What I usually do is, increase the exercise and tighten up on the diet by making it a little less fatty or sweet eat more veggies.
Hang in there, it will come off. You have done really well so far.

HollisGrant

I made the decision to change my lifestyle back in April. I worked out 4 days a week and drastically changed my eating habits. I've been more active because my summer research was a lot of field work so I was very active. Many days I wasn't able to go to the gym because the gym at school closed and it would be getting dark out (you don't go for a run in the evening around here). I have kept up my relatively healthy eating. Because meals weren't provided I had to find food for myself. I've been eating basically the same things (fruits, veggies, sandwiches, a few smart ones tv dinners, lots of yogurt) for the past 6 weeks. I have hit a plateau in my weight loss after losing 13 pounds. I know I'm approaching a healthy weight so it is going to be more difficult to lose the last 9 pounds. I was just hoping I could get some tips and advice on how to push past this plateau? Once I get home for the summer this weekend I won't have a gym available to me. I usually run two miles everyday when home and the apartment complex has a workout room I'm going to use, not sure what is available there though. But yeah, I'm just hoping for some pointers? Maybe switch up the diet finally now that I can have some variety? Not too sure how to get out of the rut...

A few suggestions:

If going outside at night is a problem, there are a lot of free exercise videos on Youtube... absolutely every type of exercise.
You might also buy a few DVDs with exercise that appeals to you.

You might also look on Craigslist or Freecycle or other websites for a treadmill or exercise bike or other equipment to keep at home. People sell great equipment at reduced prices and also give it away. I was going to buy a brand new mountain bike for $100, but a friend gave me one she never uses. Two years ago I gave away a stationary bike in excellent condition because I never used it (and I could kick myself now) -- I ran an ad to give it away because I really wanted it out of my house (I kept stubbing my toe on it).