5 Common Mistakes Women Make When Trying to Lose Weight – and How to Fix Them

Are You Trying Everything to Lose Weight – and Still Not Seeing Results?

You’re eating clean, moving more, maybe even cutting carbs or skipping meals… yet the scales barely budge. 😩 Sound familiar?

As a women’s fitness coach, I see the same patterns over and over again. Women trying so hard – but unknowingly making mistakes that stall their progress, zap their energy, and kill motivation.

Let’s break the cycle. Here are 5 of the most common weight loss mistakes I see – and what to do instead.

1. Drastically Cutting Calories

Why it doesn’t work:Slashing your intake seems logical, but your body isn’t a calculator – it’s a system. Extreme calorie restriction slows your metabolism, increases stress hormones, and eventually leads to bingeing or burnout.

What to do instead:Fuel your body with enough food – especially protein – and aim for a modest calorie deficit. Think sustainability, not starvation. 📉💪

2. Relying Only on Cardio

Why it doesn’t work:Endless treadmill sessions might burn calories, but they don’t build muscle – which is key to increasing your resting metabolic rate.

What to do instead:Incorporate strength training 2–4x per week. You’ll burn fat, shape your body, and boost confidence. (Yes – lifting is for women too! 💪🔥)

3. Skipping Meals or Fasting Without a Plan

Why it doesn’t work:Missing meals may lead to low energy, brain fog, and poor choices later in the day. Intermittent fasting can be effective if done strategically – but skipping meals without structure often backfires.

What to do instead:Eat regularly and include protein with every meal. Build meals that support your hormones, energy, and recovery – not punish your body.

4. Not Tracking Progress Properly

Why it doesn’t work:Relying on the scales alone is demotivating. Weight fluctuates for loads of reasons – water retention, hormones, digestion.

What to do instead:Track progress with multiple tools: photos, measurements, how your clothes fit, energy levels, and strength gains. Progress is more than a number. 📸📏✨

5. Doing It Alone Without Support or Structure

Why it doesn’t work:Winging it with workouts, guessing what to eat, and relying on motivation… it’s a recipe for inconsistency.

What to do instead:Work with a coach who understands your goals, your body, and your lifestyle. Accountability + expert guidance = real results. 🚀

Want to Stop Guessing and Start Seeing Results?

I help women ditch fad diets and build strong, lean, energised bodies – with a mix of strength training, Pilates, and macro-based nutrition. 🧘‍♀️🏋️‍♀️🥗

✨ Ready to transform your body with a plan that actually works?👉 Click here to book your free consultation or message me on Instagram to get started.

At True Fitness with Carrie, we offer a holistic approach to fitness through personalised Pilates training, designed to meet the unique needs of women at every stage of life, from prenatal to postmenopausal. Whether you're looking to improve your core strength, flexibility, or overall well-being, our bespoke Pilates programs are tailored to help you achieve your goals in a safe and effective way. We provide both in-person Pilates and Barre classes in Thame and across Oxfordshire, as well as online options, ensuring that you can access expert instruction no matter where you are. Our signature program, The True Method, blends personalised Pilates techniques with a focus on women's health, injury prevention, and rehabilitation, offering a well-rounded fitness experience. Whether you're a busy mom needing flexible options, an expectant mother seeking safe prenatal exercises, or navigating life post-menopause, Pilates with Carrie provides the support, guidance, and expertise to help you thrive. Join us in Thame for Personal Training, Pilates, or Barre (or virtually!) to start your fitness journey today!

Have you thought about personal training? I have an option for every budget and person! Check out more about personal training here.