Last week I shared 10 of my best weight loss tips to lose 10 pounds in a week, and while I was really excited to publish that post since I knew it would help so many people who are trying to lose weight fast, I felt like a bit of a fraud while I was writing it.
Why?
Because even though I know a lot about nutrition and fitness, I haven’t been very good at taking my own advice lately, and I’ve been feeling pretty terrible about myself. My skin doesn’t fit, my clothes are too tight, my eczema is bothering me, my stomach is distended, and I just don’t feel like…me.
The good news is that writing that post gave me the motivation I needed to address my bad eating habits and get back into a regular exercise routine, and after only ONE DAY of making better food choices and upping my game at the gym, I started to notice a difference. I have more energy, my skin is clearing up, my clothes aren’t as snug, and I feel better about myself all around.
Of course, I don’t always have 60 minutes to devote to a spin class, and there are days when I just don’t feel like running 5 miles on the treadmill, but I still try to get in some exercise to keep my motivation and spirits up.
Check out 5 of my favorite 20 minute workouts to help you lose weight fast below, and remember: no pain, no gain!
[Don’t have an internet connection that allows you to stream workout videos for hours each week and/or need a workout video you can do while on-the-go? Check out Jillian Michael’s 30 Day Shred. You won’t regret it!]
Brutal HIIT Ladder Workout by FitnessBlender
This High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workout will help you burn fat fast while simultaneously giving your metabolism an amazing boost. I found this pretty challenging the first time I tried it, but I kept reminding myself it’s ONLY 20 minutes and the rewards are worth it!
Burn 200 Calories in 20 Minutes by XHIT Daily
If you don’t have time to hop over to the gym for a power yoga or spinning class, but still want to burn off some calories after dinner, this workout is for you. I especially love the kickboxing moves – they’re fabulous for burning off a little steam after a bad day!
Six Pack Abs In 20 Minutes by GymRa
Alright, full disclosure here: I have never been able to make it through this workout. It’s that hard! But if you are serious about getting six pack abs and have more strength and stamina than I do, this workout will give you results fast!
20 Minute Total Body Strength and Cardio Workout by FitnessBlender
If you’re looking for a full-body toning workout that also offers a bit of cardio, this workout is a great place to start. You’ll need a set of weights (I use 10 lb basic dumbbells, but you can also use water bottles or a couple of cans of food) and will definitely feel the burn when you’re finished.
Ultimate Fat Burn Workout by BeFit
If you really want to boost your metabolism and blast away unwanted calories (why does chocolate have to taste so good, anyway?), this cardio interval workout will do exactly that. This video always reminds me of the aerobic classes my mother used to drag me to in the 1980s when she couldn’t find a sitter, but I guarantee you they will work every single muscle in your body!
