This next step is step "X" because it can come at any time, but the thing is, i really should come. My own picture shows exactly how I know how difficult this next step can be and honestly, it is far more difficult to change than diet or exercise; probably both of theme combined.
You got to put down the cigarettes
you can do it!
My own picture choice of the "Normie Fitness" logo is me, at a bar, smoking a cigarette. I cropped it to get that out but I want people to know that I am not just some guy that doesn't know what that addiction is all about... trust me... I know VERY well. I was an on-again off-again smoker for 20 years and I know how tough it is.
I made all the usual "exceptions" for myself as well. I've heard them over and over because I was the one saying them for a long time.
- I only smoke when i drink
- I just need a cigarette or two in the morning during coffee
- I'm just a social smoker
You gotta cut the bullshit and get rid of them and there are a number of ways to accomplish this.
Why is it important to losing weight
You normally see people who just quit smoking gain weight because they fill that void with excess in other departments and this is true for a lot of people. This is why I recommend a substitute product as a stepping stone.
I substituted longcut tobacco, which makes you even less appealing than ciggies do but it got the job done. Then there was a product called snus which is similar in its effects but is less noticeable in public. Later on I transitioned to nicotine gum and then I was out.... hopefully never to return.
You gotta put down the ciggies because of obvious health reasons that we all know but also because as a 20-year smoker, much of the time when i did smoke I only did it because it was part of my routine - i didn't necessarily even WANT to smoke... it was just something that I would do many times a day.
The main reason why you got to put these bad boys down is because they demotivate you to do almost anything else, including and perhaps especially exercise. You can't breathe properly and you are never going to be able to do much in the way of cardio if you choose not to do this very essential part.
I know i just finished telling everyone that they need to take baby-steps in their progress and I still believe this to be true. Therefore, at the onset you may wish to continue smoking while you "work out the kinks" in other aspects of your life such as diet and the slow re-introduction of light exercise. However, I think that anyone who believes they are going to continue smoking and ever adapt any sort of permanent life change is kidding themselves.
You may also wish to pick up this very helpful book called "Easy Way to Stop Smoking" by Alan Carr. I think the book hypnotizes you into quitting ciggies. It's a pretty amazing read and it has worked for millions of people. Also you may wish to try actual hypnotherapy. I know several long-term smokers that have quit using this method.
In summary, this is what I have said so far that got me to rather painlessly lose over 50lbs in a year and keep it off with lifestyle changes.
- Recognize you have a problem and make small, accomplish-able steps
- Get rid of the carbs for a temporary shock to the system
- Introduce light exercise gradually
- Get off the smokes as soon as possible