The best day for weight loss

by Liz Vaccariello, Editor-in-Chief, PREVENTION, on Fri Jun 19, 2009 12:03pm PDT

I know, I know, the first day of the workweek is tough enough but stay with me on this. Loads of studies show that Monday is really the best time to kick off any get-healthy regimen for this simple reason: it represents a clean slate, which is vital when it comes to embracing a smarter lifestyle plus there’s always another one right around the corner. Not convinced? Here are a few more reasons Monday is the greatest day when it comes to your health:

It’s a fresh start

Just like Friday always begs the question: what will I do this weekend? (i.e., eat, drink and be merry), Monday just naturally lends itself to a more practical point of view—it’s the day you assess your workload, appointments, grocery shopping. Take stock of the week ahead with your new healthy habits in mind and plan accordingly.

The secret to loving your workout

It’s a ‘trigger’ day

Studies actually show that when it comes to embarking on any healthy activity, if you have a so-called trigger day—a set date or reminder—you’re more likely to follow through. Even better? Monday rolls around every 7 days, as opposed to say, once year, like Jan 1st, so even if you get off track, another Monday is just around the corner.

It’s proceeded by 48 hours of free(ish) time

This matters because you have two free days to prepare, and launching into a new healthy routine without planning sets you up for failure—how can you eat healthier if there’s nothing healthier in the house to eat? Use these days to grocery shop, dig out your workout clothes, write up a schedule, give your junk food to the neighbors. Whatever it take to get you into the healthy living mindset.

Burn calories all weekend.

What motivates you to stick with a diet and exercise plan? Looking good in a bikini? Feeling great naked? Just wanting to be healthier?