Weight loss journeys can be rewarding, but challenging. Previous studies on weight loss attempts show that 91.7% of those surveyed have tried to shed the extra pounds, with 72% succeeding at least once. A factor that often affects their ability to become fit is the method by which they lose weight. One usually has to make lifestyle changes involving diet and exercise to meet their goals, and doing so can feel like a chore.

If you’re worried about this, you should know there are many ways you can enjoy the process. Here are a few:

Change your relationship with food

Though diets play a significant role in weight loss, many popular plans and fads often involve heavy restriction and calorie counting. These can leave you unsatisfied and malnourished. Labeling food as the enemy will take the fun out of your weight loss journey, so changing your relationship with it can do a world of good.

As such, your weight loss progam should allow you to change your perception of food. Instead of labeling food as ‘good’ or ‘bad,’ you can view them as ‘nutritious’ or ‘less nutritious,’ according to WeightWatchers. This way, you’re free to indulge in your favorite meals in moderation in a way that helps you keep up with your nutrition requirements.

Experiment with new recipes

With the freedom to choose what you eat, you can start experimenting with recipes. For example, you can incorporate more vegetables into your diet by trying eggplant-based dishes like Baingan Bharta, a curry of grilled eggplant, tomatoes, onions, and various herbs and spices that will surely get your tastebuds excited. You can also try recreating your favorite meals by substituting certain ingredients for healthier ones, such as whole-grain instead of white pasta. By experimenting, losing weight will feel like a new adventure. It will prevent you from feeling like you need to eat bland food to get the nutrients you need.

Have a workout buddy

It’s no secret that working out consistently can get tiring – this habit needs a lot of discipline. Enlisting the help of a workout buddy will help you stay accountable and stick to your exercise routine.

Ask a friend or loved one to go to the gym with you, especially if they share similar weight loss goals. This way, you won’t feel lonely during workout sessions – and you can motivate each other when you don’t feel like going to the gym. Doing so can make losing weight feel more like a fun social activity since you will have someone to share your struggles and successes with.

Take different exercise classes

Doing the same exercise routines can get monotonous after a while – even with the help of friends and family. Another way to tackle this is by taking up new classes to get a breath of fresh air every once in a while.

If you like the outdoors, try opting for a hiking class. If you enjoy swimming, take up lessons with a professional. Even attending a tennis session a few times can help you continue to find new ways to enjoy losing weight. By taking classes for activities that you love (or look interesting to you), you won’t find a dull moment when working out.

Document your weight loss journey

Documenting your progress may not seem like a fun activity, but in the long run, it will help you see how far you’ve come. Studies even show that those who self-monitor their growth are more likely to keep the weight off. You can take pictures every day to see how your body has changed. Another option is to make a video diary of how your journey is going to really see how far you have come.

Recording your progress will have a great payoff in the long run – and you will certainly have fun documenting your journey.

At the end of the day, losing weight should be an enjoyable experience. By making the most out of it, you can find the fun in the process and keep those extra pounds off.

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_{The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the writer and do not necessarily represent those of The We Spot, its employees, sponsors, or affiliates.}