Now this might be redundant if you are young, healthy, spritely things like I assume most of you are... however if anyone needs a little push to shift a few unwanted pounds here is a short but sweet guide.
Step One:
Calculate your BMR. This is your Basal Metabolic Rate and it's how many calories your body burns per day just by breathing. To calculate this go to (you need an account to see links)
If you are a sedentary/low-activity person multiply this number by 1.2 to see how many calories per day you should eat if you want to maintain the same weight
Step Two:
If you wish to do no exercise and still lose weight simply subtract 250-500 calories from your the number you worked out in step one. Depending on your appetite this could leave you a little hungry but you will lose weight
If you are planning on exercise simply eat the number of calories per day you worked out in step one
Step Three:
Find a way to count your calories that is convenient and useful. I recommend the smart phone app myfitnesspal which is free and has a very extensive food database. It also has an online counterpart (you need an account to see links)
Make sure you log everything if you are really determined about losing weight
Some people prefer hand-written food journals. Whatever you decide, make sure you log everything, ever day
Step Four:
Find an exercise you enjoy and that you can fit into your schedule.
This really can be anything from gardening, to hiking, to visiting your local gym. I can't stress enough how important it is you find an exercise that you enjoy otherwise you won't be able to keep it up.
Step Five:
Don't get discouraged! Results can take a few weeks to show but if you really stick at it you can look and feel great in no time.
Once you've reached your target weight calculate your new BMR and multiply by 1.2 to find your new calorie allowance
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