At this time of year I hear so many of you saying you want to lose weight and tone up in time for those summer holidays later in the year. Just remember that all those things you THINK might help weight loss, in the long run may prove counter-productive.

If you want to lose fat and be healthy, lean and strong it’s a lifestyle change you need, NOT a diet!

 Beware of these 5 factors that might actually be preventing you losing weight, rather than helping:
1) Fad diets - counting calories or replacing meals with a shake is not a lifestyle change and isn’t sustainable in the long run. Eat clean, un-processed foods and forget the calorie contents.

2) Over-doing the cardio - mix cardio with strength training for maximum effect. This will change your body shape and build muscle as well as sending your metabolism through the roof!

3) Not eating enough – this will send the body into starvation mode which will cause it to store fat rather than burn it. Eat regularly – 3 main, healthy meals with small healthy snacks in between.

4) Not getting enough sleep – Aim for 8 hours a night to keep the body and your brain on top form.

5) Eating a low fat diet - if you read the labels low fat food is often high in sugar next time you’re in the supermarket compare the sugar content of a full fat and low fat yogurt you’ll be surprised.

Remember good fats don’t make you fat, sugar does!