5 hacks to help you lose weight after 60
As we get older, it takes a bit more thought – and effort – to become more physically active. Some people want to shed a few extra pounds. Others just want to improve their overall fitness, to get more from life, or to be able to keep up with grandchildren. But research has shown that losing weight after 60 is something many of us find tricky, even though we know it can make a big difference to our overall quality of life.
Why is losing weight after 60 so difficult?
There are many theories as to why we find shifting excess weight harder as we get older. These can revolve around physical issues such as slower metabolisms, some aches and pains that make moving more difficult, as well as mental – many older people have a negative body image, or feel that the “damage is already done”, and let’s face it, many of us are set in our ways.
There is good news though. Losing weight after 60 does not require an expensive and tiring fitness regime. Instead of going to the gym, there are many other ways to change your daily routine, lifestyle and activity levels to help you lose weight.
Here are 5 tips that can make a real difference!
1. Hide your big plates!
Larger portions translate into extra pounds, even when we reach 60. It’s that simple. Many of us can still hear the voice of our parents, telling us to clear our plates before leaving the table. As a result, we feel guilty about leaving food, even if we are no longer hungry. The solution? Use smaller plates. It sounds simple, but is true. By itself, this one trick could help you to lose a lot of weight over the course of a year.
2. Park your keys, not your car
Wherever possible, walk instead of drive to your destination. Going to the shop? Then get a shopping bag on wheels, rather than going by car. If you have to drive, park the car at the far end of the parking area and walk to the shop or supermarket from there. Walking is one of the easiest exercises and also the most natural. Even 5-10 minutes of walking per day can help you feel energised and less stressed. You don’t have to run a marathon!
3. Focus on food
While this may sound strange when talking about weight loss, it is important to eliminate absent-minded snacking. Many of us snack while preparing meals, when watching TV, or while driving. But you can make your eating more deliberate, focused and on schedule. Set a rule that you will only eat at the table and if possible, ask your partner or a friend to join you. Turn off the TV and concentrate on enjoying your meal.
4. Turn to technology
Make it a regular thing to dance or do some gentle exercises in the comfort of your own home. Find a music channel on the TV and dance, just for fun, or while doing household chores like ironing or vacuum cleaning. Or check for online classes or exercise videos on your computer – they are free, and you don’t have to compete with anyone else or keep to time schedules – you can do them whenever you have a half-hour to spare.
5. Ban baggy clothing
Even if you are spending time at home, don’t let yourself get complacent about the clothes you wear. It’s one thing to be comfortable with your body image, but it’s another thing to allow yourself to get used to shapeless, ill-fitting clothes. Ditch clothing with elasticised waists and wear tailored outfits instead. Looking good will give you confidence and makes it easier to stay motivated to keep in shape too.
Losing weight after 60 may be challenging but it is not impossible. It can be done with a few simple changes to your habits and routines. If you would like to get some extra help, you can also try a personalised weight-loss program such as Jenny Craig. With delicious, calorie and portion controlled meals and friendly one-to-one consultations, you will learn how to have a healthier relationship with food, get more exercise and find your way to a healthier lifestyle.