6 Top Weight-Loss Tips From Fitness Guru Jillian Michaels

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Most of us could use a little help when it comes to losing weight or just staying on a healthy track. Who better to turn to for guidance than trainer and nutrition expert Jillian Michaels?

Michaels’ claim to fame was whipping contestants into shape on “The Biggest Loser.” Now she’s the ruler of her own personal fitness empire.

Since Jillian can’t always be there to smack the nachos out your hand, here are some of her top tips for taking the weight off—and keeping it off!

6. Don’t Be A “Flat Tire”

Here’s some motivation for you, “If you get a flat tire, you don’t get out of the car and slash all three other tires,” Michaels told Women’s Health.

Instead of pouting because you skipped one day at the gym, or because you ate the last donut at work, try again tomorrow. Michaels says not to let one slip-up keep you off track the entire day. Instead, regain control and get back on the wagon.

flat tire photo
Flickr | Marufish

5. Stop Relying On Fad Diets

Michaels told USA Today this is where many people go wrong. In fact, she calls it “bull crap.” Why? Because cutting out certain food groups, or food altogether, only harms your metabolism and you’ll miss out on key nutrients. Instead, eat more of the good stuff and get rid of some bad stuff without feeling deprived.

diet photo
Getty Images | Joe Raedle

 

 

 

4. Change Up Your Workout Routine

You have to like the exercises you’re doing. Michaels says find a few things you enjoy and mix it up. Keeping your workouts varied keeps you from getting bored and hitting a plateau.

Then, keep challenging yourself by upping the intensity of your workout every two weeks. For example, if you’ve been lifting 10-pound weights, make it 15.

exercise photo
Getty Images | Bryn Lennon

3. Be Smart At Restaurants

This is pretty genius and sounds simple enough. Instead of ordering from the high-calorie menu, order what makes sense for your lifestyle. Michaels reminds us that most restaurants have your basic proteins, veggies and grains. If you want chicken and broccoli, ask for it.

If you’re shy, Michaels says to tell a white lie and say you have allergies.

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Getty Images | Joe Raedle

 

2. Always Eat Before You Work Out

This advice is music to our ears! Exercising on an empty stomach is a sad, sad myth. Michaels says you need to eat at least a few hours before you work out so your body has energy.

According to Michaels’ blog, your body will pull that energy from body fat, blood sugar and sugar stored in your muscles. No! Fat cannot be turned into blood sugar and used for energy, so eat up!

workout snack photo
Flickr | Nelleke Poorthuis

 

1. Know The Calories And Keep Track!

Michaels says not counting calories is the number-one mistake made by people who seriously want to lose weight. She suggests keeping a journal and tracking everything you eat and drink for at least one week.

That way you know where you’re sneaking in those extra calories. There is good news! There will come a day when you know exactly how many calories are in the foods you’re eating. So the food diary won’t last forever.

calories photo
Getty Images | Joe Raedle

See… she’s not as intimidating as you thought! Now get the gym shoes on and try out these rules as part of your own fitness plan.

Health, Wellness & Fitness
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About the Author
Emily Hanford-Ostmann
I have a background in newspaper and broadcast news writing. When I'm not informing others about what's happening in town...I enjoy running, a great workout class, and finding my next favorite show on Netflix. I also find great joy in clearance shopping.

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