Is It Time To Lose Weight? How To Select A Weight Loss Program

A New Year's resolution. A sudden panic attack when you realize your old jeans no longer zip up. A late night infomercial that gets you excited and suddenly ready for an extreme physical challenge. We've all been there, suddenly ready to take on an exercise regime or diet, yet without a true understanding of what we're committing to, whether it's safe or even right for us. So how are you supposed to determine whether a specific weight loss program is for you? What questions are you supposed to ask, just how are you supposed to evaluate the pro's and the cons?

The best way is to do what all serious exercise and diet programs suggest and go talk to your doctor. Doctors may only cross your mind when you're down with a bad fever or feeling miserable, but they're the perfect resource when it comes to evaluating any health related decision. But what do you ask them? The key is to be able to evaluate exactly what your current physical condition is, what your goals are, and to look closely at the exercise program to see if it meets your personal needs.

The first thing to keep in mind when you enter your doctor's office is that they are there for you, and that you should not feel shy about asking any question. Be open and honest about the reason for your visit, and make it clear you wish to discuss your weight as it pertains to your health. If you think you might have trouble, write your questions down ahead of time, and bring a family member or friend to help bolster your courage. Ask your doctor to clarify any terms or explanations you don't understand, and feel free to ask for referrals to registered dietitians, support groups or commercial weight-loss programs if you need more support.

Alright. You've got your questions, your friend is holding your hand, you're in the doctor's office and it's time to start the conversation. What should you ask? The first and most important part of the conversation is to ask your doctor for their opinion on your current situation. Do you need to lose weight? Is your health being impacted by your current condition? How much weight does your doctor think you should lose? Do you have any health conditions affecting your weight, such as hypothyroidism? How will losing weight help you? How much and what kind of physical activity should you do? Is your current diet healthy, or should it be changed, and how?

Once you're clear on your goals, your current situation, and how to effect change, examine the weight loss program itself. If you've not exercised in some time, your doctor will most likely tell you that an extreme exercise routine such as INSANITY or P90X is not the place to start, but rather something like Slim in 6 or Power 90. Examine the intensity of the program's challenge, whether you need a personal trainer to supervise the initial phases or if you can safely exercise at home without help. Look at the nutrition plan that comes with the workout, and discuss whether it works for you. Discuss the value and safety of any supplements the program recommends that you buy.

The most important questions that your doctor will be able to answer are whether the program will teach you to make positive and healthy changes to the way you live your life. Is the program sensitive to your lifestyle and cultural needs? Does it provide ways to keep the weight off after you finish, in the manner that Slim in 6 is followed by the Slim Series Workout? All of these issues should be seriously discuss with your doctor, especially if you find yourself in doubt, or unsure if your initial bout of enthusiasm will be sufficient to keep you on track. Depending on the doctor's advice, you will be better able to pick between a program such as INSANITY or Yoga Booty Ballet, and feel confident that you're going to be embarking on a new path to change and improve your life!

1. Prev:A Medifast Diet Review - Proven Weight Loss Formula
2. Next:Lose Weight With The Replacement Diet