Weight isn't easy to take off for anybody with a chronic weight problem and with modern conveniences, it is almost impossible. Most people don't realize that they have been dieting the wrong way though, adding to their list of failures. This time can be different though.

80% of the effectiveness of a weight loss routine is attributed to diet. This is because the only way to actually lose weight is to eat less than you burn. Everybody knows this but the executing is what leaves dieters in the dust. To lose weight, dieters must eat properly. A well-balanced diet will stop your cravings for simple sugars. One thing you will notice if you quit eating simple sugars is that you will stop craving these foods in a few weeks. Eat more protein and fiber as a part of your diet as well as cutting the sugars. They will keep you full and make it more difficult to eat more.

Cutting fast food along with this is very important. Fast food is highly processed and you will find that your own renditions of your favorite burger is much more appetizing. Going to sit down restaurants is another issue of its own. It is a social part of life that you should not miss out on. If you know where you and your friends are going when you do go out to eat, look up the calorie information and plan your meal ahead of time instead of using your ignorance to allow you to gorge yourself. Sit down restaurant servings are usually meant to be comically large, especially if they are chain restaurants. Ask for a box the minute you get your food and put half of it in the box. That will be another meal. Also try to order small portions of grilled meat and vegetables instead of pastas and salads. This will keep you full and has no hidden calories.

Make sure you eat at least 300 calories less than you normally do. Keep a food journal around and write what you have eaten for the day before the diet, then after, you can use it to keep you in line and find a good balance of calorie intake to keep you losing weight. Do not go below 1,200 calories in a day though. You will slow down your metabolism and gain more weight as a result. After denying yourself 3,500 calories, you will have lost a pound!

After you've figured out your diet, it will be time to get to the gym. If you are not already great at working out, you may want to start with walking and swimming as they are low impact. Build up to distance running, elliptical work, and bicycling. Aerobic workouts encourage long, lean muscles and will give you a great physique. Controlling your core muscle group is also important in helping you get a flat stomach. Pilates are versatile and give beginners options for simple motions if they have a difficult time keeping up with the instructor and can give you great abs in several weeks if done daily. Weight training is also key to weight loss. Lifting weights two to three times a week will help you burn fat throughout the day and is shown to be a key part of a successful workout regimen.

You know the rules, now start your diet and exercise plan. Do the things you want to do and feel great in your bikini this year!