You step on the scale. The number is the same–and it’s been the same for days. Despite following your plan, the scale just won’t move in the right direction. It seems like you’ve hit the dreaded weight loss plateau. Members following our program, on average, lose 1-2 lbs per week. Don’t allow yourself to get discouraged and fall back into old habits. Instead, talk to your consultant and check out these ways to get back on track and past the plateau.

Stalled out

Being stuck at the same number on the scale happens to everyone at some point during their weight loss journey. It’s totally normal. Weight loss plateaus happen because your metabolism naturally slows down as you lose weight. After your body has burned up glycogen stores (carbohydrates) in your muscles and liver, you’ll see a significant drop on the scale due to water weight loss. Then, as you lose weight, you’ll also lower your calorie requirement and this can translate to slower weight loss on the scale. And remember, a few days isn’t always enough time to make a scale budge.

Push past the plateau

If you’re dissatisfied with the number on the scale and are frustrated by hitting a plateau, talk to your Jenny Craig consultant. Your consultant is there for you and can help guide you in the best direction to kick start your weight loss once again.

Sweat it out

Add just 15-30 minutes of walking or other physical activity to burn extra calories. Consider increasing the intensity if you’re doing a workout, which will help push past a plateau by burning more calories for the same amount of time. Try adding resistance exercise to tone and build muscle to boost your metabolism, since stronger muscles mean more calories burned. Weight lifting, circuit machines and bodyweight exercises are all options as well. 

Eat your greens

To stay satisfied, fill up on fresh vegetables such as spinach, carrots, broccoli and more from Jenny Craig’s Fresh & Free Additions list. These foods are rich in water and fiber to keep you feeling full longer with fewer calories. The fuller and more satisfied you feel, the less likely you are to have a potential lapse.

Mix it up

Look beyond the gym for getting extra physical activity and burning more calories. Finding new ways to move is fun and mixes up your day. Try taking the stairs at work, mowing the lawn or raking leaves, having a daily dance party in the kitchen with your kids while making dinner, vigorously vacuuming and cleaning the house, and riding your bike to work to squeeze in more exercise throughout your day.