Trying something different - I'd like your feedback

Ecampbell64

I have my current weight loss goal set at 20 lbs. I will have another 10-20 to lose after that but I didn't include it for now. Here's my "do this differently" idea. 20 lbs is doable and would make a huge difference in my health and looks. When I reach that goal, I will be at my lowest weight in probably 10 years. And I've NEVER maintained weight loss in my entire life. I've just used a low weight as a spring board back into old habits.

So, my plan is to lose 20 lbs and practice maintenance for a while. I've heard the body has to reset itself along the way anyway, so why not put a practice period in? What do you successful losers (and I mean that in the most complimentary way) and maintainers think about this idea?

Scarlett_S

I would say if something is working, keep doing it. During my weight loss, I went through periods where I would not lose for 3 weeks or so and I'd get very frustrated -- but I'd stick with the plan and maybe switch up my exercise, eat more protein, drink more water....and the following week I'd drop 3-4 lbs. Like my body was just holding onto it for awhile. After a six month time period I was able to look at my stuff here and see that my body was working that way - lose a pound or two three weeks in a row, lose nothing 2-3 weeks in a row, drop 3-4 pounds, repeat.

wilsoje74

I have my current weight loss goal set at 20 lbs. I will have another 10-20 to lose after that but I didn't include it for now. Here's my "do this differently" idea. 20 lbs is doable and would make a huge difference in my health and looks. When I reach that goal, I will be at my lowest weight in probably 10 years. And I've NEVER maintained weight loss in my entire life. I've just used a low weight as a spring board back into old habits.

So, my plan is to lose 20 lbs and practice maintenance for a while. I've heard the body has to reset itself along the way anyway, so why not put a practice period in? What do you successful losers (and I mean that in the most complimentary way) and maintainers think about this idea?

I would focus first on losing that 20 then I see no reason to stop.

lebbyloses

I honk it's a good plan! I read a lot of health news as part of my job, and losing just 10 percent of your weight can make a tremendous health difference. If that's a goal you think you can achieve, do it! When you get there, take a break and maintain. Why not? You'll still be a loser (the good kind)! Then you can start the next leg, if you choose to, with a feeling of confidence.

I'm almost at my goal now, and I still feel fat. I could afford to go lower--I would not be underweight--but I'm going to go to maintenance at my current goal anyway and get used to my new body while focusing on fitness goals. Why? It's been pointed out to me that your body image can lag behind. Taking some time will let me ensure my next goal is one that's healthy and sensible for my real needs.

vjohn04

It is common to take a diet break and eat at maintenance for a couple weeks or so.

There is nothing wrong with it, and is definitely good for the mental state as long as you can pick back up where you left off.


Here's a good article on it:

http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/fat-loss/the-full-diet-break.html

Ecampbell64

Thanks to all for your input. Vjohn, the link was fascinating, I may try one of his books.