4 ways to prevent a weight loss plateau

You're losing, you're still losing, you can't believe how well this is working! Then, the scale comes to a screeching halt. We've all been there: the dreaded weight loss plateau. While plateaus are normal--according to a report in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, weight loss typically halts after six months--they're also completely bustable. Power through that plateau and get back on track today with these simple tips. Change it up If your weight loss is in a rut, chances are so are you. "If you keep doing what you're doing, you'll keep getting what you're getting," says Prevention fitness advisor Chris Freytag. Try that kickboxing class you've always wanted, enlist a friend (and her new route) on your nightly walk, or make meatless Monday a three-day phase this week. Trick your body into working a little harder, and you'll burn more calories. Check your portions You were really good about measuring out a ½ cup of rice at dinner for the first few months of your weight loss journey, but now you've started eyeballing it. Sound familiar? Dust off the measuring cup to make sure your eyes aren't playing tricks on you. Up the intensity "Losing 20 pounds can reduce the number of calories you burn during a typical workout by about 12%," says Freytag. To make up for the difference, increase how long you exercise, how often, and the intensity. Try to devote a few more minutes to each workout, add new challenges (like intervals or hills), and start using a heart-rate monitor so you can keep yourself at your target maximum calorie-burning level. Get enough sleep When you're trying to lose, make sure you spend plenty of time in dreamland--research shows women who sleep for 5 hours or less a night are 32% more likely to gain weight than those who get a full 7 hours.