Weight loss Resolution vs. Weight loss Solution

As you already know, you are expected to have a New Year's resolution and it is just as likely to come true as a birthday wish.  Next to smoking, the resolution to lose weight is most common.  To be honest with you, I have no problem if you have a resolution to lose weight.  However, my concern is that the approach that you may have is all wrong.  What you seek is a solution.  Know that the difference between a resolution and a solution is a resolution is 'what you want to do' (i.e. lose weight) and a solution is 'how you're going to do it' (i.e. diet and exercise).

Here's some things you should ask yourself before starting any weight loss program:

Are they promising quick results?  There are always gimmicks and "quick-fix" weight loss plans that are promising fast results.  Any time you see "lose 10 pounds in just 10 days" or something like that, run far, far away from it.  Sure, you may lose weight, but in the end you will gain it all back (you know you will) and in the process you are going to damage your hormone balance and muscle tissue.  Even though you lose weight, your body fat stays the same.  

Is the Solution being provided one-dimensional? As with most cases, the solution they provide may help you "lose weight", however, the solution they provide is a misconception.   Most of what is being presented to you out in the marketplace is going to represent themselves as being the only solution, yet in the fine print you will always see the disclaimers that tell the bigger story.  What do you usually see in the disclaimer-  FOR BEST RESULTS DO IN CONJUNCTION WITH EXERCISE PROGRAM.  RESULTS NOT TYPICAL.

Is it Really Only about Weight?  Answer this this question by asking this one... Are you wanting to lose weight, or are wanting to gain something  too?  Maybe it's to gain health or fitness (or both).  Being in the health and fitness game as long as I have, I have known far more happier people who have something to gain.  That seems to be true in all aspects of life.  Chances are if you have something to gain, the solution you choose is going to bear more fruit and you will actually maintain the goal, whatever it may be.

Will it help you get fit too?  You know that weight loss alone is not going to improve muscle tone, improve strength, improve bone mass, decrease blood pressure, improve vitality, etc.  There are a lot of things going on at a subcellular level that has to change.  These changes do not occur over night.  It takes months and even years.  You must incorporate a long-term plan that incorporates the synergy of resistance training (not just weights), supportive nutrition, cardiovascular exercise, flexibility, rest. etc.