A woman shares how she lost weight without giving up her favorite treat; read to know more.
Weight loss journeys are often synonymous with strict calorie counting, rigorous exercise routines, and endless sacrifices. However, fitness trainer Kols (@healthkols) challenges these norms with her unconventional approach to weight loss. Having lost 70 lbs (32 kg), Kols has proven that you don’t have to follow traditional weight loss “rules” to achieve significant results. Instead, she adopted a sustainable and enjoyable lifestyle that not only helped her achieve her goals, but also inspired many others on their fitness journeys. Let’s explore his six surprising, “non-traditional” weight loss strategies that have turned heads and debunked myths.
1. Get rid of the scale
One of the first unorthodox methods Kols adopted was to avoid the scale altogether. Instead of obsessing over fluctuating numbers, he focused on how his body felt. “I didn’t weigh myself for the first year of my journey,” she shared. Kols believes the scale often puts people off, as weight naturally fluctuates due to factors such as water retention. He emphasized: “If it demotivates you, stop using it. Focus on how you feel, not just the numbers.”
2. Avoid calorie tracking on vacation
For Kols, vacations are a time to relax and consciously enjoy. While he avoided tracking calories on trips, he didn’t use vacations as an excuse to overindulge. “I listen to my body, enjoy the foods I want and stop when I feel full,” she explained. This balanced approach allowed her to stay consistent at home without feeling deprived while traveling.
3. Enjoy sugary drinks and your favorite foods in moderation
Unlike many weight loss enthusiasts, Kols didn’t eliminate sugary drinks or his favorite treats. Instead, he practiced moderation. “Calories are calories and I include them in my deficit when I indulge,” she said. Denying herself her favorite foods, according to her, only leads to cravings and binges. “If you tell yourself you can’t have something, you’ll want it even more,” he added, advocating a guilt-free but balanced diet.
4. Find a workout you like
For Kols, fitness isn’t about forcing yourself to follow routines you hate. He chose weightlifting because he enjoyed it and found it motivating. “Fitness is not one size fits all,” he emphasized. Kols advises people to find an activity they enjoy, whether it’s yoga, swimming or dancing, to make exercise sustainable and enjoyable.
5. Embrace lifestyle changes instead of short-term solutions
Instead of relying on short-term solutions, Kols adopted a lifestyle he could sustain over the long term. This included making small, consistent changes to your routine rather than drastic measures. Her focus on enjoying the process and staying consistent helped her lose weight without feeling restricted.
6. Consistency is the real key
The core of Kols’ journey is consistency. His approach wasn’t about perfection but about showing up every day. She embraced balance and gave herself grace on the days she fell short. This mindset, combined with her “non-traditional” methods, allowed her to achieve her weight loss goals while maintaining her mental health and happiness.
Kols’ journey is a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to fitness. By embracing individuality, focusing on sustainability, and letting go of unnecessary pressures, she transformed not only her body but also her relationship with health and wellness.
