What is the single best way to lose weight?

Mark Raynsford says ...

By reducing your calorific intake slightly each day. If you're weight is staying the same each week, aim to cut back 3-500kcals a day (no more or your body will go into starvation mode, and will release fat storing enzymes called lipoprotein lipases), and monitor your weight each week.

Aim to keep protein levels high, around 0.5 - 0.8g per lb of bodyweight, and this will keep you fuller. Cut back on carbohydrates later in the day, and minimise sugar intake. Carbs should be low GI, including vegetables and fruits etc. You should still look to perform resistance training 2-3 times a week or you will lose muscle mass, and your body shape will change for the worst!

Mark Raynsford Personal Trainer, Marks PT

Ted Bassett says ...

The single best way to lose weight is to try and elevate your heart rate to about 70% MHR for 20-40 minutes six days per week.

Ted Bassett Personal Trainer, Bassett-Myers Personal Training

Joanne Besser says ...

The only way to lose weight is to expend more energy in the form of calories than you consume.

The best way to do this is through a combination of increased daily activity (exercise) and better nutritional choices - I say better choices as opposed to “diet” as some diets can play havoc with your metabolism and may lead to nutritional deficiencies that in the long term can cause yoyo weight loss followed by gain or actual medical problems such as osteoporosis – If you’re not sure what a good diet consists of seek advice from a professional nutritionist.

If you were to choose between eating less or exercising more, increased activity would be the way to go - this will not only burn calories while exercising but will increase your muscle mass which in turn speeds up your metabolism. Increased exercise will also help improve other body functions and heart strength.

Ideally you will include activities that raise your heart rate until you are slightly breathless for 20 minutes 5 times a week or a slightly higher intensity for 30 minutes 3 times a week – but increased activity can also include getting out in the garden, walking up stairs instead of taking the elevator, walking in your lunch break and resistance training at a gym.

Joanne Besser, Personal Trainer, Oomph Fitness Personal Training

Mike Heatie says ...

Diet, no doubt about it. Weight loss is at least 75% foods and fluids, possibly as much as 90%. You have to cycle your calorie and carbohydrate intake properly and avoid eating foods and drinking fluids that promote fat storage.

You should eat sufficient protein and fibrous carbohydrates such as vegetables and limit starchy carbs until you have reached a weight you're happy with. If you can include quality resistance and cardiovascular exercise then this will assist your weight loss also, but focus on foods and fluids.

Mike Heatie Personal Trainer, Mike Heatie Personal Training

Gary Miller says ...

After 25 years looking at the answer to this question,I have concluded  that there is no perfect way to diet as it’s a case of horses for courses,what suits one person won't suit the next!

As long as you eat foods that can be construed as healthy and you exercise a lot the weight will disappear.One person maybe more at home on a lowcarb diet whilst another may defer to a more balanced diet!!

Gary Miller, Weight loss expert, Excellent Way to Lose Weight

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