Life is not easy for us, students. We are constantly shuffling between classes and tuition and hanging out with friends. Amid all this, no wonder it’s hard to pay attention to our bodies. I realised that my body needed my attention when I walked into a store and didn’t fit into any of the clothes I wanted. I checked my weight and BAM — I was 80kg! I was in denial for a while but deep inside me I knew that I had to transform myself into something better. I can now proudly say that I’m lighter by 22kg and I’m very happy with myself, although I haven’t reached my goal weight yet. I feel healthy and fit. Here are a few easy steps I followed to lose weight.

 
I stopped lazing around: I involve myself in activities that keep me busy and active most of the time. Sitting in one place for too long is very bad for health, and to avoid that, I take a walk during study breaks. Also, I usually take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Healthy food swaps: Swapping colas for fresh fruit juices, buttermilk or coconut water, and choosing healthier snacks is a great idea. I don’t binge on phuchkas anymore. I eat a fruit instead. In summer, fruits like guava, pineapple and blackberries are easily available. I carry these to college. Sometimes I think it makes me look “uncool” but who cares?

I NEVER starve myself: No. Just NO! Not only because Mom would never let me, also because it is the unhealthiest way to lose weight. Crash-dieting might help you shed the extra pounds real quick but you should be prepared for all the weight to bounce right back as soon as you stop the crazy diet.

Exercise: Possibly the most effective way to lose weight. It is important to know the problem areas of your body and focus a bit more on them to lose the excess fat from there. I am a fan of suryanamaskar and I do at least 25 in the morning, followed by 30-45 minutes of exercise.

Healthy lifestyle: One needs seven to eight hours of sleep to feel energetic the next morning and I try to maintain that (although I admit it’s very difficult and I often fail in this).

I divide my meals into small portions and eat throughout the day, every two to three hours, instead of eating three heavy meals. I drink at least three litres of water every day. I avoid processed foods and I do not smoke or drink.

I didn’t give up: In the beginning, I found it really hard to lose weight, and while I felt disheartened at times, I kept up my effort. Weight loss is not an overnight thing. It takes time. I consulted a nutritionist, hired a personal trainer, and I didn’t give up. Eventually, I started feeling the difference.

Cheat code: It is okay to cheat once in a while. Yes, you read that right. Once I started losing weight, I decided to treat myself once a week. I go out with friends and indulge in my favourite food. However, I still prefer swapping the double cheese cheeseburst pizza for a thin-crust one. A little indulge and a little sacrifice help me stay on track.
My weight-loss journey was not easy but when I look back, I feel so happy with myself. I’ve realised that anyone can transform themselves under proper training and guidance. It is important to know what drives you. Losing weight might be very difficult but trust me, it is not that hard either. Also, while it is important to be healthy and fit, don’t go too hard on yourself. And most importantly, learn to love yourself, like I did!

Tech tools to jazz up your workout

Griffin Adidas MiCoach Armband: With this, you can strap your smartphone to your arm while exercising. Price: Rs 2,499 (all prices approximate)

Nike Fuelband: Available in three colours, this wristband keeps track of your movement through the day by translating your activity into ‘Nike fuel’ with the help of motion sensors. Also counts the number of steps you take in a day. Researchers say an average of 10,000 steps a day keeps one healthy and fit. Price: Rs 16,590

Fitbit Aria WiFi Smart Scales: Wireless smart scales that track weight changes and monitors BMI and body fat percentage for up to seven people. Price: Rs 9,990.

Xiaomi Mi Band: Helps you track your step count, distance covered and calories burnt in addition to monitoring your sleep pattern. The band connects to your smartphone (Android and iOS) via Bluetooth to offer stats on your activities. It even alerts you when you receive a call, has an alarm feature and lets you unlock your smartphone (Android 5.0 or Xiaomi). Price: Rs 999.

Sweatproof earplugs by Sennheiser Sports: Sweat and water-resistant headphones that come with integrated smartphone remote and microphone to control volume, and track calls while exercising. Price: Rs 4,990 (starting).
What fitness tools do you use? Tell us at t2@abp.in

 

Tanisha Bajaj
What do you do to stay fit?
Tell t2@abp.in