Finding the perfect balance between exercise and diet is the holy grail of weight loss. We look at a couple of straight forward no nonsense guidelines to find your perfect niche.

With longer days on the cards, you should try and structure evening gym workouts. A 30 minute workout before dinner will increase your metabolism for another two to three hours just as it starts slowing which will allow you to burn more fat for longer.

When you start with a training program make sure you know what you wish to achieve. Unless you have a goal you will miss!

Find a training partner or invest in a personal trainer. Doing this will keep you focussed and the chances of you “giving up” will be less. Inspiring each other and a bit of healthy competition will do wonders for your training regime.

Training and exercise will allow you to release stress! You will not only look great but you will feel great too.
Be reasonable. If you have neglected your body over a long time you should be mindful that getting back in shape will take a while as well. 

Stay motivated! Wanting to get in shape for the “right” reasons will allow you to stay motivated for longer.

Take a good look at your diet. Make sure that you not only start training but also follow a healthy eating plan.

Make sure healthy snack options such pre-cut veggies and fruit are at hand for when you feel like munching. This will prevent you from grabbing processed foods which are usually higher in calories.

Try and cut down on animal protein. Legumes can be used in soups and casseroles as a meat alternative.

Never skip meals, but rather plan them in advance. More is in this case less.

Look for foods that are marked Low GI – these will keep you full for longer and are approved by the heart foundation.

If you think you might feel tempted to eat something unhealthy; buy only required ingredients for the meals you have planned.

Look for low fat options when buying ingredients. Substitutes are readily available which means you can still have your favourite meal but with less calories.

Don't peel your fruit – most of the nutrients are skin-deep.

Plan uncooked meals. This will allow not only for more fibre in your diet but also ensures that your fat intake is less. Beans, nuts and/or white cheeses can be added for protein.     

Make sure that you add variety to not only your eating plan but also to your workout.

If you need to use oils you should invest in cold pressed oils. 

Regardless of how you go about it  make sure you focus on having fun, this will keep you motivated and your goals attainable.

See you on the beach!

Source: http://www.healthyweightforum.org/eng/weight_loss_tips/ retrieved 14 September 2010