Having a strong support network can make or break your weight-loss journey, so it’s important that you have a good network of professionals, friends and family that will be able to hold you accountable, motivate you when you need it and celebrate with you when you hit your targets.
According to research, a support network can really benefit long term weight loss. If you don’t already have a group of people to call upon, there are a few steps below you can take in order to create that for yourself and help towards a successful journey.
Click here for more information about how support networks can help you lose weight.
Start by talking to your closest friends and family and opening up about the fact that you want to lose weight. The best place to begin is to tell them that you would appreciate their help and be quite specific in how they can be there for you. Whether it’s emotional support for when you need to vent your frustration or physical support from someone who might join in with a new running or exercise hobby. It doesn’t have to be a huge commitment from anyone – there are lots of little ways that different people can help you on your way to success.
Be prepared for some criticism or backlash initially from some people who may feel a sense of jealousy when you start to lose weight – unfortunately, it’s very common for this to happen but can quickly turn around when they realise how much happier you are. Friends and family may try to get you to skip a workout or have some unhealthy food, but just remind them that what you’re doing is important and you would rather they support you and not try to deter you.
Consider teaming up with people in a similar situation on their weight loss journey as you. Talk to your Bodyline Clinic peers, join Facebook support groups or try to join a local community of people that have an online support network or meet up regularly for chats. Thankfully our clinics are open again now albeit with less social contact, but we know that the sociable element is something our clients really love about Bodyline. Throughout lockdown, Bodyline’s online support forum, B.O.D, was still up and running, with brand-new videos, blogs and recipes being uploaded every single week.
Click here to log into B.O.D and access all of our exclusive content – if you’re not already a member, it just takes two minutes to register!
Reach out to people like this when you have good or bad days, as they will be able to offer support and guidance in both situations. Make sure that you are always aware of the give and take in these relationships though, it’s important to be there for them when they are in need as you would like them to be there for you. You should find that your relationships improve, and you might even start to enjoy healthy eating and exercise more when you have a companion to make it fun. It’s also much easier to lose weight when the whole household is on board, so try to involve your kids or partner as much as you can.
This will all ultimately play a huge role in your long-term weight loss successes, and if you develop support relationships earlier on you’ll find your journey much easier. Tough periods of time will slowly begin to become easier when you have built up a strong support network, and over time you will not revert to your old ways when things go off track in your day-to-day life.
So, get out your low-calorie snacks and invite your loved ones around for a coffee. Step out of your comfort zone to talk about your feelings and develop those support networks that you need in order to reach your goals. You may be surprised at the support that you get.
Don’t forget, here at Bodyline we have a Refer A Friend offer running constantly. Introduce a new client to Bodyline, and you will both receive a FREE month of weight loss medication after their first month, worth £50! You can introduce as many people as you like, simply ask your clinic manager for more information next time you’re in clinic, or mention it to our bookings team when you next call up.
To get booked in for your next Bodyline appointment, or for any more information, give us a ring on 0800 9956036 – our team will be more than happy to help.
