Like many of you, I find myself on my iPhone, iPad, & Laptop, numerous times throughout the day. If I’m not sitting in front of the screen working, I’m normally surfing the net looking for healthy recipes for the evening meal, or, I am probably checking out sites on weight loss & fitness tips.

Given all the time we spend online, why not incorporate some of it towards activities, which, will help with our weight loss & fitness goals? Here are a few tips to get you started in the right direction:

Twitter

Share your thoughts with your followers. Tweet your recent successes, as well as any “oops” you may have incurred along the way. Sharing both the good and the bad, not only keeps you honest and accountable, the feedback you get, can be very rewarding.

Follow people you admire in the weight loss and/or fitness industry. These people often add to daily inspiration, share expert advise and may give you the motivation you need to stay on track.

Facebook

Don’t get sucked into playing games and surfing this social media site. Instead use it to your advantage. Create a “group” and invite friends and family to join you in your fitness or weight loss challenge. Start small; perhaps create a 30 day shred challenge, and keep it going after 30 days. Motivate and encourage each other. Give one or two other members administrative permissions, so that they can invite others into the group.

Remember to post motivational and encouraging daily thoughts for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to set some rules for the group, making sure that the group is free of any negative comments. A successful group supports one another no matter how small the achievement is.

Tracking Apps

There are many programs or Apps that can help you track your food intake, exercise and weight loss. My favorite FREE app is MyFitnessPal, as it can be downloaded on just about any device, and not only tracks food, calories, weight loss, body measurements and exercise, it also allows you to find your friends who are already using the site and creates a small news feed of its own. Offering up advice, announcing successes, encouraging others to reach out to those who might not be logging in, or are falling behind in their progress, this app certainly encompasses everything you need in a fitness community.

While surfing the web, remember, you are not alone. There are many free online groups (or forums) of which you can join, just to get ideas or motivation. Get involved, share, get a slice of knowledge and keep moving towards your goal. You’ll be surprised how much encouragement you will receive when you reach out for help, or when you reach out just to share. Motivate and be motivated!