Why the Last 10 Pounds Are Totally Kicking Your Butt
By Genevieve Cunningham
Ahhh ... the last 10 pounds. If you have made it this far, give yourself a pat on the back. Losing weight is tough, and if you only have 10 to go, you are already a success. While you probably really do feel successful, you may find yourself equally frustrated at those last lingering pounds. Almost everyone finds the last few pounds the most difficult. If you really want to see those last few pounds melt away, take a look at these common reasons why losing the last few is so difficult, followed by what you can do about it.
The Last Few Pounds Usually Aren’t Necessary
The last 5 or 10 pounds aren’t called vanity pounds for no good reason. Most of the time, these are the pounds that are not necessary to lose for health reasons. As far as your body is concerned, those pounds aren’t hurting anything, and so it holds onto them. They serve as a reserve for fat and energy, and letting them go isn’t something that your body is going to take lightly. If this is true in your case, take a good hard look at your body and determine for yourself whether those pounds really must come off. If the answer is yes, proceed.
You May Have Loosened Up
When we first start a weight loss program, we tend to be really strict. Do I want that piece of cake? Absolutely not! Can I skip this workout today? No way! As we lose pounds, however, and see significant progress, we tend to lighten up without even realizing it. Maybe we can have that piece of cake just this once. It won’t be a big deal if I miss this one workout. Now that you are physically lighter, reevaluate your caloric needs and adjust accordingly. Since the last few pounds probably aren’t hurting anything, sticking very tightly to a proper diet is crucial in taking them off. Likewise, make sure that your exercise habits remain regular and intense in order to skim off the last bit of fat.
Your Body Readjusted
As your body gets accustomed to a new weight and fitness level, it readjusts. For a while, it considers your new body type normal, and so it acts accordingly. When this happens, it sometimes takes a bit of a shock to the system to get it moving again. You may have to significantly reduce portions for a few days or join a super intense new workout group. Similarly, it may require you to lift heavier weights in order to really challenge the muscles. If you stick with it, once your body gets past this readjustment period, you may find the vanity pounds finally dropping. So, the real advice? Stick with the plan and be patient!
If you are looking to drop the last few pounds, take a look at these reasons for difficulty, and make a plan around them. Though your weight loss success should be celebrated, there is nothing wrong with going for broke. Take a look at your body, your needs, and keep going to get the best body of your life.
