It's hard enough being a teenager without the added worry that you are too fat. As soon as you notice you are starting to gain weight is the time to make lifestyle changes. Just a few strategies can help you reverse weight gain and get on the road to getting the body you want.
Eat Simple, Low-fat Meals
At 17, you aren't likely to want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen preparing healthy meals. Nor are you likely to have control over what your parent or guardian prepares. That doesn't mean that you can't eat healthfully, though. Get in the habit of eating simple foods that are low in fat and calories, inexpensive and easy to prepare. Consider eating a breakfast of oatmeal with berries, a lunch that consists of a sandwich and a piece of fruit and passing up extra servings of starchy foods at dinner. Avoid sweets, and you will be on your way to eating a diet that can facilitate weight loss.
Wait to Get a Car
If you don't already have a car at 17, you probably can't wait until the day you get one. If you're trying to lose weight, though, you will be better off walking or riding a bike. Each hour you spend walking burns over 250 calories. The more overweight you are, the more calories you will burn. An hour of fast bike riding can burn 700 calories -- all the more reason to avoid visiting car lots.
Learn New Activities
If you're in the habit of coming home from school and plopping your body on the couch to play video games or watch television, you're setting yourself up for a lifetime of weight problems. Cut down on your screen time now, and substitute healthier activities that will help you take the pounds off. If you're going to play video games, play active ones that incorporate fitness moves and dance. Join an after-school softball team, try out for the drill team or get to know your neighborhood from the viewpoint of a runner.
Get a Job
Make money while you burn off calories by getting an after-school job. Simply being on your feet will help you burn calories. Avoid fast food jobs, though, as the constant snacking that can go on will likely make you gain additional weight. Look for a position as a grocery store clerk or bagger, a plant nursery assistant or something else that does not involve sitting. Forgo getting a ride to work and burn even more calories getting to and from your job.
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