In Treatment: How to Lose Holiday Weight Without Dieting

"I'm looking to lose some of my holiday weight, but dieting doesn't do it for me. What are my options?" - Martha Buchanan, Winnipeg.

1. Exercise

Amanda Vogel, Fitness Instructor: If you're not already exercising, that's a good place to start. Try 20 minutes of brisk walking — on a treadmill or outdoors — three to four days a week. After about two weeks, ratchet up your calorie burn with up to five 30-minute workouts a week.

Setting aside another 10 to 20 minutes two to three times a week for toning exercises will strengthen your muscles and bones. Target your arms, legs and torso with dumbbells, a resistance tube or your own body weight.

Staying consistent and progressing toward more intense and varied exercises will help you work out harder over time, leading to greater weight loss when combined with eating well.

(Photo: George Doyle/Comstock/Thinkstock)

Each medical situation is unique. Be sure to consult your physician about the specifics of your condition.

Amanda Vogel, MA human kinetics, is a Vancouver-based certified fitness instructor and author of numerous books, including Baby Boot Camp: The 9-Minute Fitness Solution.