Back-to-School Weight Loss Tips

Being a parent isn’t easy, especially when school is back in session. While summer probably went way too fast, there is a positive side to the new school year, which is getting a routine back. A routine can help you stay on track and create healthy habits, so that you maintain or reach your goal weight. Before we dive into the new school year, now is the time to lay the groundwork and set your schedule so you can keep your weight in check when you’re busy being a parent.

Create a Schedule

Creating an organized schedule can add structure and balance to your life. Instead of remembering everything in your head, put everything on paper or a whiteboard, so you never forget. Keeping a schedule somewhere visible can help maintain clear communication about what needs to get done during the day, week or month.

With a schedule, you can block certain times off for certain activities. We recommend scheduling time for the following:

• Work
• Homework
• Projects
• Exercise
• Chores
• Errands
• Tutoring
• Leisure time
• Sports

Meal Prep Weekly

Meal prepping is great for many reasons as it can help save time and money and help you get on track to healthy eating. Once a week, block off time to create a list of meals and snacks for the upcoming week, grocery shopping, and cooking the meals. Instead of cooking every single day, you can simply heat up your meal that is already portioned out.

You can practice meal prepping for yourself or for the entire family! If figuring out what to make for dinner every single night causes you stress, you might find it helpful to meal prep dinners for the entire family to lower your stress levels.

Create a Workout Plan

Finding time for exercise may be the last thing on your mind, but it should be a priority to get moving for at least 30 to 60 minutes a day. If working out at the crack of dawn is the only time you can get moving, then set your alarm and try your best to make it happen. If you have time during the day while your child is at school, take advantage of this time to work on yourself and get a sweat going.

To maximize your time efficiently, have a plan for how you’ll sweat. You don’t want to be wandering around the gym when you have a time limit.

Not sure what to do? Check out our blog on fat-burning exercises to help you get some ideas!

Take it Easy

Juggling everything around during the school year can be tough and overwhelming. Unfortunately, too much stress can have a direct impact on your weight. It is important to know when you are starting to feel mentally and physically burnt out and come up with ways to resolve this feeling. Here are a few stress management techniques you can practice:

• Go for a 10-20 minute walk outside
• Practice mindfulness
• Write in a journal
• Listen to music or a podcast on self-care

Need help losing weight and building healthy habits? Garcia Weight Loss and Wellness Centers offer personalized weight-loss programs designed to help you unlock your full weight-loss potential. Contact us today for your no-cost consultation!