How Do I Lose Weight?

Players ask me one of the following two questions all the time! How do I gain weight? Or How do I lose weight? These are great questions and I am always more than happy to discuss these issues with our athletes but I have included the opinions of others in the field here. The following was taken from Dan Riley's Fitness Corner found on the Huston Texans' Website. Coach Riley is one of the most respected strength & conditioning coaches in the nation. In fact, when the Texans franchise opened up Riley was their first hire!

Before beginning a weight loss (fat loss) program we suggest you consider the following:

1. Get a complete medical physical to insure there aren't any health risk.

2. Consult the services of a Registered Dietaian (R.D.).

3. Get your body composition measured, preferably with a Bod Pod.

4. 95% of all diets fail without some form of regular aerobic exercises as part of the weight loss process.

5. Incorporate a total body strength-training program.

6. Do not attempt to lose more than one pound of fat/week.

7. Modify eating and exercise habits for the rest of your life.

Registered Dietitians form a group of professionals called the American Dietetic Association. To become a Registered Dietitian you must successfully perform the following:

1. Complete a rigorous four-year nutrition curriculum at an accredited university.

2. Complete a practicum in a clinical setting.

3. Pass a standardized test.

Registered Dietitians are the only credentialed professionals you are guaranteed of receiving sound nutrition information. Roberta Anding, R.D., is the Texans nutrition expert. She coordinates our entire program.

Losing weight is easy. Losing body fat and keeping it off permanently is a difficult task. You can sweat, dehydrate, and lose five pounds of water real easy. Muscles are primarily composed of water ( approximately 72% ). Fat has only a trace of water. It is a gooey, oily substance.

One thing we do know. One pound of fat equals 3500 calories. To lose one pound of fat you will need to deduct 500 calories per day, from the number of calories you need to maintain your current bodyweight.

At the end of the week you will have lost approximately one pound of fat. Visit a Registered dietitian and get the scoop.