Short and simple answers to some of the most common weight loss questions that I get asked.
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Q. What’s the best exercise for weight loss?
A. More than 90% of your results will come from your nutrition plan.
However for the remaining 10%, the best exercise is…. . (drumroll please). The one you enjoy and do without having to force yourself to.
**Also see – What’s the best exercise for weight loss?
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Q. When is the best time to exercise?
A. Whenever it best fits your week.
3 – 6 exercise sessions per week is ideal. It is advisable to have a rest day in between overloading the same muscle group.
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Q. How do I lose fat from my tummy (or any other body part)
A. Spot reduction is a myth.
Lose fat from all over your body by burning more calories than you consume. Be patient and eventually your tummy will get smaller.
**See also – 6 steps to lose fat from your thighs
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Q. Will eating ______ food make me fat?
A. No ONE food will result in you losing or gaining fat.
A donut can fit into a weight loss plan if your daily total is appropriate.
Alternatively a chicken salad can result in you gaining weight if you eat more than you need.
**See also – Is this healthy food making me fat?
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Q. How do I know if I am losing / gaining muscle or fat?
A. If your waist measurement is going down you are losing fat.
Even if the scales have stayed the same.
- Eg. 70kg Betty lost 3kg of fat and gained 3kg of muscle = Betty still weighs 70kgs (as measured on scales)
- Betty’s body shape looks better, she is stronger and her metabolism has increased. (Yay)
If your waist measurement is going up you are gaining fat.
Even if the scales stayed the same.
- Eg. Gained 2kg of fat – 2kg of lost muscle = Same weight on scales.
- Body shape looks worse, you are weaker and metabolism has gone down slightly (Boo)
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Do I need to consume a 1200 calorie diet in order to lose weight?
You need to consume less calories than you burn each day in order to lose weight. The technical term is to create a calorie deficit. However, this amount is different for everyone.
- Bob 110kgs, with a very active job burns 3000 calories per day (estimate only)
- Bob will lose weight if he consumes less than this amount
- Betty 65kg office worker burns 1900 calories per day
- Betty will lose weight if she consumes less than this amount
Oh and don’t forget, we are only ever estimating the number of calories we burn and consume. Don’t get too strict and obsessive with it all.
See more – Surprising facts about calories that you NEED to know
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