What Is a Good Amount of Weight to Lose Per Month?

While everybody will lose at different rates, there is a healthy range in which one should be losing weight. However, it is more important to focus on the principles of a sound eating and exercise plan rather than numbers on the scale. By eating right, exercising well and monitoring your weight for any bad patterns, you can be well on your way to achieving a good amount of weight to lose per month.

The Right Amount

Weight loss experts typically recommend one-half to two pounds of loss a week, which means an average of two to 10 pounds a month. However, there are several factors that can contribute to a faster or slower monthly weight loss. For example, if you weigh a lot, you will lose weight faster in the beginning, then the weight loss will slow as you get closer to goal. If you are older, you will lose slower.

Your Best Plan

The best way you can ensure that you are achieving a good amount of weight to lose per month is to eat right and exercise well. This can be achieved by eating whole foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, fiber and lean proteins. A sound exercise plan will vary according to your goals, but for extensive weight loss you will want to consider an intensive cardio routine, paid up with some weight work. It is a common misconception that weights will make women bulky, but women actually will need muscle tone to properly lose weight.

Considerations

Keep in mind that not drinking enough water or ingesting too much salt will lead to water retention, which will show up as numbers on a scale. In addition, women who are approaching their menstrual cycles may temporarily see a high number on the scale.

The Big Picture

When it comes to losing weight, there will be times when your body will hit a plateau, and it will need to be challenged in a new way for you to start losing again. In fact, according to the Lifetime Fitness guide for weight management, the first eight weeks are all about feeling better and having more energy. Months two through six are described as being heavy in inch and fat loss and muscle growth. It is only at the six month and beyond that the weight really starts to fly off.

Other Measures of Success

You also should consider other measurements so that you don't become too obsessed with a good amount of weight to lose per month. These can include your energy level, clothes feeling looser, more energy, a change in dress size, compliments from others, and achieving feats you couldn't do before. Do not become too hung up on numbers on a scale, although they can be a good way to track your progress. Just be sure it's not the only measurement tool you're using.