P.S. I just realized Susan posted a comment a month ago! She’s a friend of mine, but I didn’t realize you two had met! Small world. Linda

Second, if you try and follow this important rule: eat right 95% of the time and relax the other 5%, you won’t feel deprived. An example is to follow a healthy diet 7 days a week BUT have 2-3 meals where you don’t watch, enjoy and eat what you want, you will still lose weight, I promise Give yourself permission to enjoy family dinners, parties, etc, you just can’t do it everyday. Exercise in any way whether it’s at the gym or outside doing yard work is always great and will accelerate the process. Wherever you can replace activity such as walking, taking the stairs, even doing every other step for a few flights (a great lower body quickie) I do this sometimes in office buildings any chance you have to burn a few extra calories do it, it will all add up.

Finally, my advice or workout mantra is something I say to myself and follow, “anything is better than nothing” so, if you don’t think you have enough time to run 30 min and only have time for 20, do 20 as most likely you’ll skip it all together and not do it. It will all add up to results. Your goal should be to lose 1-2 lbs per week, that is safe and what is recommended and ideal for long term personal weight loss. You want to lose body fat, not hard earned muscle or water weight which will just come back. For recommendations to consult with a Dietitian or Sports Nutritionist, feel free to email me