Losing fat is probably something we all would like to do, to some degree. Fat has an obnoxious way of just sneaking up onto our bodies. Granted, sometimes it seems like it should be obvious, based on the food that we are eating. However, other times fat comes when we have been on the strictest diet. The best way to lose fat is a combination of eating healthy and exercising.

That's right - there is no easy way to lose fat. A well thought out plan of diet and exercise is the only way to go, if you truly want to see results. The diet side of the plan should consist of low-calorie, high-protein, high-fiber foods, which are also low in salt and sugar. Examples of these are eggs, oat and whole-grain cereals or oatmeal, fruits and veggies, skim cheeses and milks. Of course there is always room for a little indulgence, but save these meals/snacks for once a week.

Exercise is something that most people do not want to do, but it is essential to losing fat. The most beneficial exercise, to simply lose fat, is cardiovascular. Any version of cardiovascular exercise will work. Whether you prefer biking, running, step classes, kickboxing, etc., they are all beneficial and useful in goals to lose fat. The most important thing to think about when doing these exercises is getting your heart rate up to a fat-burning zone. This will vary depending on the person, but it should be at least 140bpm, on average. (If you are not on a cardiovascular machine, that can measure this, try counting it out by feeling your pulse on your wrist or neck.) Exercises like pilates, yoga and pliometrics are great for toning, but in order to lose fat -  a hard, cardiovascular workout must be done for at least 45 minutes to an hour,  at least three times a week.

All great accomplishments take hard work, and losing fat is no different. For most people, they must undergo a lifestyle change. This may be hard, but the benefits of not only losing the fat, but also feeling physically and emotionally stronger, lighter, healthier, more beautiful and confident are well worth it! 

Plans like exercising and eating healthy can be hard to stick to. To ensure that you do stick to your plans, place visual images of your goals somewhere (like your refrigerator, car or bathroom mirror) to constantly remind you of why you are doing it. Whether it is for your health, to fit into that favorite bikini, or to just live better - focusing on your goals will help you stick to the plan and never give up. Also, remember to treat yourself once a week. This way you can look forward to that day and know you don't need to indulge throughout the week, and ruin your diet. Good luck - with a great diet and exercise plan, you are sure to lose the fat and see a whole, new you in no time!