Yes, a recent study shows that there is a relationship between weekends and slow pace of weight loss. This study was conducted by researchers from the Washington University School of Medicine. It was found that those who were trying to reduce their body weight experience a slower rate of weight loss in the weekends.
Normally, weekends are devoted for social events, parties, dinners, outings etc. People tend to eat more on these days, resulting in the consumption of high calorie foods. To celebrate freedom from the hectic working days, people either go for outings or they stay at home. Be careful, both instances will unsettle your plan to be fit and slim.
The “relaxed” weekends may drive you to a restaurant for dinner or parties where you will be served with high calorie foods and beverages. You may pay the price for that — like loosing out on what you have achieved because of your strict diet and workouts. You may even see your dresses becoming tighter for you every Monday morning.
The present study warns people who are disciplined in their workdays but not in the weekends. The best way to get rid of the “danger zone,” that is, eating high calorie foods and no exercise or activities is dependant on how you plan your weekends.
How to spend a healthy weekend?
First thing for a healthy weekend is to plan your weekends before you wake up to an “idle Saturday morning”. With careful planning you can make your weekdays healthy and lively, without loosing its spirit.
Here are some tips which you can try during weekends:
- Begin with a low calorie break fast and continue with your diet plan carefully throughout the weekend
- Do your routine exercise without fail
- Buy and store foods that is low in calorie, instead of high calorie fast foods like fresh fruits and vegetables
- Even if you are taking your favourite dishes which are high in calorie, reduce the serving size and quantity. Ensure that you are eating or being served in smaller sizes of plates, spoons, bowls etc.
- Instead of idly sitting in front of your television, spend more time in activities such as gardening, cleaning etc.
- Avoid caffeinated drinks and look out for drinking more water and fresh fruit or vegetable juices
- Cook and/or pack home made foods instead of bingeing on junk foods
- Engage in some fun activities with your kids and family to burn the excess calories and to also elevate your moods.
- You could also engage in aerobic kind of dance along with your family and your favourite music
To keep yourself on the right track, you would need to pay a lot of attention to what you eat and do as this could be the cheapest way to make your weekends healthy and lively. Activities combined with fun, healthy foods and family can lift your worries about your broadening waist lines and will assure better health and fitness.
