Maintain, Don’t Gain: What to Do When You Need to Take a Break
There will come a time in your life when you need to relax your diet or workout plans a little bit. You may be getting ready for a wedding and reach a point where you no longer want or need to lose weight (but you don’t want to gain it back). You might be approaching a holiday season or special occasion with a relaxed mental attitude. Maybe you’re getting ready for a surgical procedure or health battle that will simply make it harder for you to keep up. No matter what the reason, we have some tips to help you maintain the weight you’re at without going nuts.
Keep
Exercising
Make sure you are getting 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise at least 5 times per week. This will help you to maintain your weight even if you’re eating slightly more in calories than you were. As long as you’re still making good food choices, the deficit (or lack thereof) should help you to maintain instead of gain, even if you’re eating little more.
Limit Unhealthy Quantities
It’s OK to have some unhealthy food here and there. Candies, cakes and other junky foods aren’t technically the cause of your weight gain – it’s the quantity you are eating. Eat less of the unhealthy stuff and try to make better choices – like salsa instead of cheese dip or pretzels instead of chips. Moderation is key when it comes to avoiding weight gain. Going to a party? Don’t graze on snack foods. Make a small plate of food so you can really track what you’ve eaten.
Choose Splurges Carefully
A lot of fun stuff is around during birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, and other party atmospheres. Choose your splurges carefully. Ask yourself before you go whether you’re going to graze on appetizers or save your “splurge” for a slice of cake at the end of the night. Plan and stick to your guns.
Unless you have a medical reason for taking a break, in which case you should talk to your doctor, not gaining weight when you aren’t focused on losing is a matter of practice and planning. You can lower your exercise goals if you lower your calorie goals as well. You can eat a bit more if you exercise a bit more. Talk to your nutritionist or trainer if you need help finding balance as you move into an off-season in your exercise life.