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I was lucky enough to have a trainer help me out. Some of you may be more motivated to work alone, but I on the other-hand, am more motivated to work out with someone else. I was always used to working out because I played volleyball. Once my season stopped back in 2008, I ended up gaining a ton of weight. My trainer that I was blessed with is also a nutritionist! She had helped me a lot. I fell in and out of motivation, but once I was at my session with her it was like I was right back where I started. Here are some tips I was lucky enough to get from her that may help all of you.

-Each person needs 240hrs of cardio per week. Whether it be running, swimming, zumba class, etc.
-Do strengthening exercises after. Lifting weights, planks, crunches, wall sits, etc.
-Eat breakfast as soon as you wake up. It helps get your metabolism going first thing in the morning.
-Eat every 2-3 hours. Not a big meal, just something small. Whether it be fruit, veggies, hummus, greek yogurt, etc.
-Stop eating an hour before bed.
-Women, especially around our time of the month, we get cravings. DO NOT IGNORE THEM. If you ignore them it only makes it worse. Have a very small amount of what you are craving and then move on.
-After work out, drink PLENTY OF WATER.
-Stay away from anything packaged. YES, even those 100 calorie packs!! Anything packaged is very bad for you! stick to all the natural/organic stuff!
-Do not have any soda, iced tea, or juices! If you want to have tea, have unsweetened brewed tea. ESPECIALLY green tea! Helps your metabolism :)
-Most importantly, MAKE A FUN PLAYLIST! There's nothing more motivational than having a good beat to work out to! Work outs are great for stress relief too! Pick your favorite song and get out any stress you have!

Hope some of these things have helped you out! :)