5 Ways to keep the weight OFF after you reach your goal

When you FINALLY achieve your goal weight, it may feel like the biggest accomplishment in the world. It really is because losing weight is one of the hardest things out there when you're facing temptation daily. The fact that you were able to stick it out for as long as you did deserves a pat on the back for all that hard work. Now, you may worry that you will either end up gaining weight or revert back to your old ways.

The key is to maintain your successful loss. After all, you know the amount of effort that went in to losing it, so why would you want to go through it again?

Read more ¿Qué más?: STOP counting calories if you want to lose weight!

Weight maintenance is all about taking what you learned during weight loss and applying the good habits to your everyday life. However, we all need some guidance to avoid falling under the weight gain trap. Which is why we've come up with ways to help you keep the weight off once and for all.

Check out our tips below!

Find healthy versions of junk food:  Say you love ice cream, opt for a frozen yogurt in your favorite flavor. With the amount of "healthier" versions of junk foods out there you can't go wrong. If all else fails, you can also have unhealthy foods as long as you keep your portions small.

Keep exercising: Make sure to keep an exercise regimen going to stave off weight gain. Get creative and find different ways to get your fitness quota in daily whether it's through dancing, walking, yoga or jogging.

Weigh yourself weekly: In order to stay on top of your weight, it's best to step on a scale at least once a week to make sure you're staying on track. Studies have found that people who weigh themselves regularly keep the pounds off more than those who don't.

Create new goals for yourself:  The reason you were able to lose the weight in the first place is because you had a goal in mind. This is the same mentality you should maintain after the fact. Challenge yourself by signing up for a race, learning how to master a new dance, or introducing new healthy foods.  

Reward yourself: Similar to the ones you gave yourself during weight loss, it's important to keep them up during maintenance too. Reward yourself with something you enjoy (that's NOT food) if you reach a new fitness goal or you've gone months maintaining your weight. Shopping, fun weekend activities, or new exercise gear are some good options.

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