---Introduction
Getting into shape keeps you energized, mentally sharp and looking good. While distractions like smartphones and social media vie for your attention, fitness takes a back seat. If you want to buck that trend, create an exercise schedule to lose weight and lead an active lifestyle. At first you’ll need the motivation to get your body into motion. Once started, you’ll focus on building momentum and intensity. As you settle into a routine, food choices and diet grow increasingly important. By following the guidelines presented here, you’ll have success creating an exercise schedule to lose weight.
---Finding the motivation to start
Finding the strength to make a change starts mentally. Break what might seem like an impossible task into manageable pieces by setting challenging but realistic goals. A good starting point would be to try losing 10 to 15 pounds in three months, or to try running two miles in 15 minutes. Recognize that starting to work out is a challenge to everyone, but fight the urge to rationalize laziness on account of life’s daily obligations. Visualize how much better you will look and feel to stay motivated.
---Scheduling exercise around a job and a life
Fitting an exercise routine around work, social life and kids is challenging but not impossible. The most important step is to work out when you feel most energized. Early risers should try to work out in the morning before their commute. Night owls may prefer an evening workout, while the kids do homework. Still others can find success squeezing in an intense routine during their lunch break. Achieving fitness goals becomes difficult when working out competes with everyday responsibilities.
---Choosing a style and intensity to burn calories
Your starting fitness level and end goals dictate how intensely to begin your routine. Been a couch potato for quite some time? Get moving by finding time for brisk walks, bike rides or some crunches at home. If you’re in decent shape but need a boost to meet goals, try whole-body workouts like a kettlebell routine, Latin dance or pick-up basketball. If you’re already a gym rat, challenge yourself to train for and run a marathon. Regardless of how you start, gradually increase the intensity and become a lean machine.
---Eating right to lose weight and keep it off
A proper balance of protein, grains and vegetables promotes weight loss and high metabolism. Vegetables should make up about 30% of lunch and dinner, so one-third of your plate should be green. Lean proteins like white meat chicken should cover a quarter of your plate and fruits about 15%. Limit dairy to small portions, but save another quarter of your plate for whole grains like wild rice or quinoa. Enjoy a larger meal at breakfast, but minimize lunch portions and keep dinner well-balanced. Since science has shown that humans are grazers, have healthy snacks like granola, bananas or popcorn ready to avoid meltdowns.
---Conclusion
Though challenging, creating an exercise schedule to lose weight pays lifelong dividends. If you can find the motivation to start, choose a time that fits your lifestyle and maintain a healthy diet, unsightly fat and oppressive lethargy disappear. Over time you’ll look better, feel better and have more energy.