5 things a fitness trainer will never do for sustainable weight loss

Dr Vajalla Shravani MPT, certified pilates trainer and founder at Tone 30 Bengaluru, tells indianexpress.com, “Sustainable weight loss is crucial for long-term health and well-being. Unlike crash diets or extreme measures, a sustainable approach focuses on gradual, lasting changes to eating habits and lifestyle. This method not only helps individuals reach their weight goals but also maintains the results over time, reducing the risk of weight cycling.”

Trainers recognise that rest and recovery are crucial for weight loss (Source: Freepik)

Here are five things a fitness trainer will never do for sustainable weight loss, according to Dr Shravani

Over-rely on Fad Diets 

Fitness trainers avoid restrictive or extreme fad diets that may promise rapid weight loss but are unsustainable in the long run. Instead, they emphasise a balanced, nutrient-dense diet that can be maintained over time.

Focus Solely on Cardio 

While cardio burns calories, trainers never rely on it alone. They incorporate strength training to build muscle, increase metabolism, and support fat loss.

Drastically Cut Calories 

Severe calorie restrictions can lead to muscle loss and metabolic slowdown. Trainers prefer a moderate caloric deficit that promotes gradual, sustainable fat loss without jeopardising muscle mass or energy levels.

Ignore Rest and Recovery 

Trainers recognise that rest and recovery are crucial for weight loss, muscle repair, and preventing burnout. Overtraining can increase stress hormones like cortisol, which may hinder fat loss.

Set Unrealistic Expectations 

Fitness trainers never set their clients up for failure by promoting rapid, unrealistic weight loss goals. Instead, they focus on small, consistent changes that add up over time, ensuring long-term success.

Precautions to keep in mind

Dr Shravani stresses that the following precautions should be kept in mind:

Be mindful of calorie intake: Ensure you’re in a moderate deficit to avoid metabolic damage.

Incorporate variety: Strength training and cardio should be balanced.

Seek professional guidance: Work with a certified trainer or nutritionist to ensure proper form, safety, and the right caloric adjustments.

Prioritise mental well-being: Rest and recovery aren’t just for the body but also the mind, reducing stress and promoting adherence to long-term goals.