Weight Loss - The 12 Week Challenge

Many people talk about the 12 week challenge when it comes to weight loss. Whilst this amount of time might seem arbitrary, there is actually a very good reason for it being so specific.

Take this fact for example. When people sign up for the gym, the average amount of time that they spend visiting on a regular basis is 12 weeks. Additionally, people who go on long term, intensive diet programs, usually last around 12 weeks until they finally give up.

Why is this? And what is it about 12 weeks which is so relevant when it comes to weight loss?

The 12 Week Mental Cycle

It seems that the 12 week theory is based solely on psychology. People who decide to go to the gym will give themselves 12 weeks (approximately) to generate results. If significant results are established, they are likely to continue.

However, if significant results (or the results they expected) are not seen, the outcome usually is that they give up and stop going.

Here is the psychological process behind this decision making:

• 12 weeks is 3 months.
• Most advertising around weight loss and dieting focuses on a 3 month cycle.
• Diet pills and patches usually come in a 3 month supply.
• 3 months is usually the tolerable level for forced lifestyle change.

The fourth point here is the most important. Usually, if you are going to change your lifestyle, it happens very suddenly. For example, where you might have been exercising just once per week, you will start exercising 5 times per week from week 1.

You might not realize it, but this is actually a slight shock to the body. And whilst the body will happily adjust in the medium term, after about 12 weeks - you might see signs of resistance.

How to Beat the 12 Week Mark?

Because the problem of the 12 week mark is all in your head, the solution needs to be psychological also. If you are able to maintain a mental strength, you should be able to beat the 12 week mark hands down.

However, if you feel that you will fall victim to the 12 week mark like most other people, try partnering up with someone who can encourage you. Perhaps someone who has been successful with their exercise in the past?

This might give you that added stimulation necessary to get over the 12 week challenge.