5 Ways to Lose Weight Without Going to the Gym

There are many ways to maintain your health that don’t involve an exercise machine or a strict diet.  Loyola University Chicago’s Fitness Program Coordinator, April Boutler, of has 5 tips for staying healthy when you’re too busy to work out regularly. Her tips are easy and stress-free.

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Take the Stairs Instead of the Elevator

If possible, always take the stairs.  “You want to get your body moving throughout the day”, says Boutler. Walking up stairs for 1 minute will burn 8 calories. If you’re office is on a floor too high to reach by stairs, try walking up a few flights before taking the elevator.

Eat Healthy Snacks

Snacking throughout the day will quickly add up your calories and fat in-take. Boutler explains that healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables are commonly mistaken as not filling. However, fruits and vegetables offer enough nutrients to keep you full while also keeping you healthy.  Boutler suggest always having a piece of fruit or vegetables with you. “

Eat Smaller Portions

Diets are not always the answer. Cutting down the size of your meals and snacks is an easy way to eat less and still enjoy some of your favorite foods. Portion controlling also reduces the amount of calories and fats you consume.

Always Stay Hydrated

“Keep water with you at all times”, says Boutler.  Staying hydrated can not only cut down on your food intake but it will also help you lose weight. “Most people don’t understand how helpful drinking water can be”, she said. If you are like most people, you probably don’t like the taste of just plain water. Boutler suggests adding flavor to your water, making it easier to drink. Crystal Light has On-the-Go powdered flavors for water that only have 5 calories per serving. These or any other similar products are a great way to enjoy hydrating. If you want to be more simplistic, adding fresh lemons, lime, or cucumber also add flavor and minimize calories.

Keep a Food Journal

Write down everything you eat throughout the day. Boutler says, “If you keep a food journal, you are far more likely to be aware of what you are eating. Sometimes you don’t notices that you ate that whole bag of M&M’s because you did it throughout the entire day”.  A journal will show what you are eating on a regular basis and help you make the necessary changes to your diet and lifestyle. Sites such as The Daily Plate can help you get the facts about what you are eating. LIveStrong has an excellent calorie counter based on your current weight and how much you want to lose.  Keeping track of what is in food can help you learn how much of something you can eat without maxing out on calories

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