Losing weight during the summer time is often a goal for teenagers, but for many it is hard to accomplish. Teens spend much of their summertime doing things that promote weight gain instead of weight loss such as watching television, playing video games, going to barbecues and snacking around the house. Losing weight over the summer is very possible. Teens just have to take steps to prevent temptation and fight weight gain.
Plan
Set your weight loss goals. Generally, people can lose about one to two pounds a week safely, notes the MayoClinic.com. Determine how much weight you want to lose. Make on the calendar when you want to reach your goal weight. Decide how much weight you need to lose every week; make sure it is in a safe diet range. Begin losing weight.
Stay Active
Down time will only increase your desire to eat out of boredom. Filling your day with things to do will help you keep your mind off food. Get involved in summer groups and clubs. Spend time at the pool with your friends. Schedule your day the night before so that you have a plan that will keep you focused and busy the next day.
Fitness
Exercise is an important component of weight loss. HelpGuide.org reports that engagement in regular physical activity will burn calories while also increasing your resting metabolism; this will cause you to burn more calories all day. You should commit to getting at least 45 minutes of exercise five days out of the week. The exercise can take place on a formal sports team such as swim team or you can exercise on your own or with a couple of friends. Running and swimming are two exercises that tend to burn the most calories.
Also, including strength training routines will help you build and tone your muscles. The more muscles you have the more calories you will burn daily.
Summer Foods
During the summer people tend to like to be outdoors and have parties that are centered on meal times and food. This can make it hard for you to stick to your weight loss routine. TeensHealth.org suggests that at parties you should avoid going up for seconds and keep from overloading your plate; eat the low calorie options such as fruits and stay away from the desserts.
Also, summer foods often include ice cream, lemonade or sweet tea, all of which are rich in calories. You should avoid the foods of summer that tend to contain high amounts of calories.
Rest
Getting plenty of sleep will help you lose weight, notes HelpGuide.org. Many times, people overeat because they feel tired or fatigued and food provides them with energy. Therefore, it is important for teens to get at least eight hours, and sometimes more, of quality sleep every night.
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