Weight Loss Basics

By Paige Waehner, About.com Guide to Exercise

Weight loss is all about burning more calories than you eat, but what's the best way to do that? Knowing the basics of how to lose weight, how to exercise for weight loss and how to motivate yourself is essential for creating a program that works for you. These resources will give you the tools you need to create a healthy lifestyle, set up an exercise program and get maximum weight loss results. Whether you're a beginner or you've been through the weight loss process before, you'll find everything you need to know about weight loss.

1. How to Lose Weight
2. Exercise for Weight Loss
3. Weight Loss Programs
4. Plateaus and Motivation

How to Lose Weight

If you've ever tried to lose weight, you know it can be a difficult process. But, there are ways to make it easier. Understanding exactly what you need to do to lose weight is your first step and these resources will help you learn about the basic steps to lose weight, how to set realistic goals and simple tips for making healthy lifestyle changes.

• Steps to Lose Weight
• How to Set Weight Loss Goals
• Making Lifestyle Changes
• Successful Weight Loss
• Getting Flat Abs

• Losing Weight in the Butt, Hips & Thighs
• How to Track Your Progress
• Weight Loss for Teens
• Weight Loss Tools

Exercise for Weight Loss

Exercise is a key component in any weight loss program, but it can be confusing to figure out how much you need and where to start. Here you'll find in-depth information about every element of an exercise program including cardio, strength training, flexibility and how to put it all together. You'll also learn how to maximize your exercise program for great results.

• Cardio for Weight Loss
• Strength Training for Weight Loss
• Setting up a Complete Weight Loss Program
• Getting Weight Loss Results
• Exercise and Weight Loss Programs

Weight Loss Programs

An effective weight loss program includes both exercise and healthy eating to help you burn more calories than you take in. If you want specific guidance on starting a weight loss or exercise program, these free newsletter courses offer a variety of options for losing weight and creating a healthy lifestyle.

• 12 Weeks to Weight Loss
• 6 Weeks to a Healthy Lifestyle
• 30-Day Fitness Challenge
• Busting Belly Fat

Plateaus and Motivation

It's inevitable that most of us will hit weight loss plateaus and lose motivation at some point in the weight loss process. These resources will teach you how to change different elements of your exercise program to avoid plateaus and offer ideas for helping you stay committed and motivated to exercise.

• Understanding Weight Loss Plateaus
• Stick to Your Exercise Goals
• Staying Committed to Exercise

• The Motivation to Exercise
• Workouts to Keep You Challenged
• Giving up the Weight Loss Obsession