No one should tell you that diet and weight loss is easy because it is not. Sometimes the key to meeting any goal is by combining projects and developing a plan to focus your motivation. If this is the year you promised to save some money and lose weight, try a frugal plan to drop some pounds. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines frugal as "reflecting economy in the use of resources." Economize dieting by ignoring expensive commercial plans and coming up with your own way to reduce calories and stay on budget.
Step 1
Make a shopping list from your menu plan. Divide your list into groupings, such as staple products and fresh items. A staple product is a base used frequently, for instances seasonings. Purchasing staples in bulk will save on your food bill.
Step 2
Write out a meal plan for one week. Include breakfast, lunch, dinner and at least one snack item. Create meals that are low in fat and carbohydrates. The menu should include fresh fruits and 100 percent juice. Calculate the calories for each meal and then total for the day. Try to keep daily calorie levels below 1600.
Step 3
Find three or four grocery stores in your area. Keep the stores relatively close to your home if possible. Locate the weekly advertisement for these stores and compare it to your shopping list. Make notes on the list of any items on sale and which store. Scan newspapers and magazines for coupons to discount items on your list.
Step 4
Shop for the items needed to follow the menu plan. Use the list and visit stores with items on sale. Try to shop for everything needed for one week in this trip. Frequent visits to the store leads to impulse purchases.
Step 5
Investigate ways to exercise at home or in your neighborhood and develop a schedule. For example, if you live near a park, take advantage of the free walking and biking paths. Exercise does not need to cost you money, but if you need the options of a gym, join one that offers you a reasonable plan or a trial offer. Check with your employer for discounts or check your neighborhood--many communities and apartment complexes have gyms available at no cost for residents.
Step 6
List all the things you can do around the house that will burn calories and save you money. For instance, if you pay a neighborhood boy to mow the lawn each week, get some exercise and save money by taking on the job yourself. Find projects at home that you have been putting off, things like cleaning the garage. Working on home projects burns calories and often involves lifting, which will build muscle mass.
Step 7
Walk or bike ride when running errands. If you need to go to the library just three miles away, grab the bike and take a ride. Leaving the car behind saves gas and forces you to exercise.
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