My Four-Week Fitness Plan for Weight Loss Success
Struggling with weight loss is a common challenge for many individuals. The key is to find a sustainable plan that works for you. In this article, I will share the four-week fitness plan that helped me lose 10 pounds and keep them off.
After gaining unwanted weight during the holidays, I was determined to lean out for the summer. With approximately one out of three adults in the U.S. being overweight, I knew I needed to make a change.
Week 1
- Goal: Establish a sustainable calorie deficit without binging and losing lean muscle
- Key Activities: Basic strength training, hitting at least 7k steps per day, planning out diet and food choices
Days 1-2
Complete upper- and lower-body strength training sessions and cardio.
Upper-body Workout
- Incline DB Bench Press—3×8-10
- Incline BB Bench Press—3×6-8
- Cable Rows—3×10
- Lat Pulldowns—3×10-12
- Incline DB Curls—3×10
- Triceps Extensions—3×12-15
Lower-body Workout
- Seated Leg Curls—3×12
- Machine Squat—3×10
- Bulgarian Split Squat—3×10
- DB RDL—3×10
- Hanging Leg Raise—3xFailure
Days 3-4
Continue with upper- and lower-body strength training sessions and cardio.
Days 5-6
Complete cardio and a hot yoga session for increased calorie burn and flexibility.
Day 7
Take a rest day to recharge for the upcoming week.
Dietary Changes
Focus: Hit protein goal within a calorie deficit and increase water and veggie intake
- Breakfast: 2 eggs + 2 whites, 1 sourdough toast, 1 chicken sausage, 2 cups coffee
- Lunch: 6oz chicken breast, 2 cups green beans, 4 mini potatoes
- Snack: 1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt + 1 scoop protein powder + 1 cup blueberries
- Dinner: 6oz chicken breast, 3 cups green beans, 2 mini potatoes
Week 2
- Goal: Build on the foundation by improving last week's workout and increasing activity
- Key Activities: Lift heavier, do more reps, up steps to 8k per day
Days 8-10
Continue with upper- and lower-body strength training sessions and cardio.
Results and Reflections
After four weeks of following this plan, I successfully lost 10 pounds, improved my gym performance, and built mental toughness. Here are my key takeaways:
- Sticking to the diet was a challenge, but crucial for success.
- Workouts were tough but manageable with determination.
- Consistency in calorie intake was essential for progress.
- Being a little hungry was part of the process.
- Making good food choices while socializing was key.
- Allowing for treats while staying within the calorie budget was helpful.
If you're considering starting your weight-loss journey, remember that consistency is key. Start with a plan that works for you and make gradual progress towards your goals.