In our instant gratification society, people want what they want, and they want it now! People want their fitness results to happen as fast as possible. While personal trainers make their money by getting their clients results, there are so many factors that can change the speed in which those results come. I briefly want to explain why having a little patience with your weight loss goals will benefit you in the long run.

4 Advantages of Slow and Steady Weight Loss:

Ensures Safety - Slower weight loss allows your body to adapt and not resist weight loss. Rapid weight loss can result in your body thinking something is wrong and puts tin a state of stress. While I am always a fan a visible changes, safety is of upmost importance. If not done correctly, fast paced weight loss can result in:
- dehydration
- malnutrition
- electrolyte imbalances
- gallstones
- headaches
- irritability
- fatigue
- dizziness
- constipation
- hair loss
- muscle loss
Prevents Muscle Loss - Extreme calorie cuts or the use of any crazy fat burning pills or fad diets usually do not result in fat loss. Instead you loose water weight and even muscle loss, which is the exact opposite of what you really want when trying to slim down. This is why they are not long term results. By changing your diet to include food that are high in protein, fiber and nutrient while being low in unhealthy fats, sodium and sugar, your body still has the right fuels to provide weight loss as well as maintain your lean muscle. Remember, lean muscle helps you burn more calories on an everyday basis, it is necessary to reach your fitness goals.
Keeps Weight Off Long Term - With consistent small changes in your diet and exercise you will see your weight slowly drop. This gives both you and your body time to adapt to your new "normal". Habits tend to stick better when they happen slower. Changing everything at once is overwhelming and usually results in a lack of follow through. Habit change, as well as weight loss, is not black and white, there is a entire gradient of grey in between.
Reduces Fatigue - Once again, when you dramatically change your calorie consumption or take anything that messes with your metabolism (fat burners, diet pills, etc) you are more than likely going to suffer from fatigue. Fatigue is the opposite of what we are looking for when trying to live a healthier lifestyle. On the flip-side, if you take your time and slowly increase your exercise while eating a diet full of energy boosting foods, you will have the energy to not only exercise but tackle life!!

I always tell my clients that I can get them super fast results. I will give them a list of fairly bland and restricted foods that they will have to follow to a tee and they can train with me 4-5x per week. If you have an event coming up and need to get in the best shape fast, it will require a significant amount of time, energy, money, and dedication. If your goal is to simply loose weight and keep if off so that you can live a more active and fulfilling life, take your time and learn to enjoy the process.