How to Lose Weight in a Short Time Period

Many people who want to lose weight want immediate gratification and hope to see results right away. Some decide to do it with the help of weight loss pills or so-called "miracle" diets. Others may choose weight-loss surgery. None of these choices works consistently. To lose weight in a short period of time, you need to do cardiovascular exercise, weight training and go on a healthy diet.

Step 1

Sprint intervals on an exercycle to get your heart rate up and boost your metabolism. Set the resistance level at "8" and sprint for 50 seconds, followed by three more sprints of 45, 40 and 35 seconds. Take no more than a 10-second break between sprints. When you finish all four, take a two-minute break and repeat the set. Do this three times a week.

Step 2

Lift weights to improve your strength and burn the fat off your body. The best strength training usually involves lifting free weights. Not only do you have to use your strength to lift the weights, but you have to work to balance them as well. Arm curls with moderate weights are a good place to start, followed by bench presses. Pilates is an excellent strength-building routine that will also help you cut fat. Do this three times per week.

Step 3

Swim to help get your heart rate up and burn additional calories. Since you are trying to lose weight in a short period, you will need to exercise as often as possible. You don't need to engage in swim races, but you do need to keep moving in the water for at least 25 minutes. Do this three times per week.

Step 4

Eat healthy foods and cut out the empty calories in fast foods. White-meat chicken and fish should be your main sources of protein. Eat complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain cereals, spaghetti and brown rice, to give your body the energy it needs to handle the exercise load. Eat fresh vegetables and fruit every day.

Step 5

Drink 64 oz of water every day. Sports drinks contain sugar and sodium and are not as good for you as water. Water serves as a great lubricant for your organs. It will also wash the toxins out of your body.

References

Article reviewed by Contributing Writer Last updated on: Jan 29, 2010

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