How TVs Jillian Michaels Can Help You Lose Weight

     If you've seen her transform contestants' bodies on the Biggest Loser, you know celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels means business. She changes peoples lives and bodies with her motivation and direct approach. Read Michaels fool-proof ways to build your physique and tone down while boosting your metabolism. Steal her tips to bulk up and slim down all over, so you can ultimately become the biggest winner.
Scorch Fat
To begin with, you want to get your heart beat up and zap those pesky calories. After you start exercising, you'll metabolize the sugar in your muscles, but then, after exercising for about 20 to 30 minutes you'll start reaching into your fat stores. Michaels is a big supporter circuit training, because it's an efficient way to work every muscle in your body while keeping your heart rate raised. In her "Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism" workout, which is part of the two-DVD, Ultimate Body Makeover Series on Exercise TV, Michaels guides viewers through seven six-minute high-intensity circuits. There's no rest in between circuits, and you're constantly moving, Michaels says. Each circuit features new exercises to work different muscles, and your heart rate is up the whole time.
"You won't get bored or even have much time to think. I try to pick people up in a tornado of energy so they don't have a second to think or doubt themselves. Before you know it, the workout is over, and you feel good," Michaels says.
For best results, Michaels suggests following her workouts at least twice a week. To get the optimal benefit, you really need to be exercising 4-5 times a week. In general, you should get at least four to five hours of exercise a week, with two days of rest slotted in between," Michaels says.
Using Your Own Weight
"Target toning doesn't work on it's own; you have to shed body fat," Michaels says. "You also have to condition the underlying muscles, so that when the fat comes off, you can see them."
In Michaels' No More Trouble Zones DVD workout, she makes sure to target and strengthen the typical tough spots, like triceps and thighs, while also incorporating cardio work to blast calories and fat. Try Jillian's Top to Bottom.
Like many of Michaels' workouts, No More Trouble Zones features body-weight exercise circuits, to hit every muscle group while pushing the limits. "In general I like exercises where you use your own body weight. You can do these exercises anywhere, at any time of day, and it's a great way to keep your body lean and functional," Michaels says. "Incorporate things like lunges, squats and push-ups into any workout." Michaels loves Burpees, as they rev your heart rate, delivering a total body cardio boost. To test your lower body limits, try Jillian's Lean and Mean Leg Workout (link to Lean and Mean Leg mini workout).
Stop Eating Crap
A common mistake by new fitness buffs is negating the effects of exercising with poor eating habits. "You've got to watch how much you're consuming. If you do this and keep up with your workouts, you can expect to easily see results in two weeks."
When it comes to food, keep it basic. Micheals says to be sensible and eat clean, whole foods. "Eat lean, organic proteins, whole grains and fresh veggies and fruit. Steer clear of processed foods, and reduce your alcohol intake," Michaels says.
Pump Yourself Up
Staying motivated is key to keeping yourself on your fitness track. "It's about creating an environment of energy for yourself," Michaels says.
Michaels also suggests envisioning exactly what you plan to look like when you reach your fitness goals. "Keep a picture in mind of what you're working out for," Michaels says. "Sometimes working out isn't pleasurable, so think about the rewards. See yourself in that dress, with your hair how you want it with all the details."
And in no time, if you follow Michaels' straight-up advice, you should get there.

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