When you make the commitment to lose weight or live a healthier lifestyle, a diet and exercise plan is a step in the right direction to achieve those goals. Changing your eating habits and level of activity can be too much to change all at once, and you'll need to assess how healthy you are before you begin. Preparing for your diet and exercise plan can start you off on the right foot, and set you down the path of success for a healthier lifestyle. Start slowly, and work up to lifelong changes.
Step 1
Compare different diet plans to choose one that is right for you. While the Mayo Clinic notes that the best type of diet is one that cuts 500 calories from your diet and engages you in 60 minutes of physical activity per day, you may also want to try a themed diet, such as one that cuts sugar, one that uses only fresh or raw foods, or one that cuts carbohydrates from your diet. Weigh carefully the pros and cons of each to choose a diet that you'll be able to stick to.
Step 2
Consult with your doctor about beginning a new diet and exercise regimen. Some may not be healthy enough for drastic changes, and some diets might not be the healthiest choices for some patients. Your doctor will be able to recommend possible diet and exercise plans to you so that you can choose one that will work with your current level of health.
Step 3
Purchase the right foods for your diet so that you have them on hand to create meals and snack on. Not having the right foods in your cupboards may cause you to slip from the diet later on, when you are tempted to substitute a higher calorie food in for something that would be a better choice. Fill your cupboards with fresh ingredients that are low in calories, but high in nutrients.
Step 4
Consult with a personal trainer to work out a fitness regimen that will keep you focused and engaged, so you don't become bored. Many gyms offer trainers as a complimentary service. If you don't have a gym membership, look for ways to exercise that will keep you engaged. A running buddy, a team sport or a YMCA membership can all help you to stick with your diet and exercise program.
Step 5
Motivate yourself by setting goals at the beginning of your diet and exercise program. Perhaps you'd like to run a half marathon. Choosing a fitness goal gives you inventive to exercise more, because you have something to work towards. A personal reward, like a vacation, may also help you to stay true to your diet and exercise program.
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