Losing weight is one of the most common goals that people make. Almost everyone likes the idea of being a slimmer, fitter version of themselves and fitting into their old jeans. However, saying that you want to lose weight and actually doing it are two very different things. Even if you manage to lose the weight, you'll need to keep it from coming back. Here are four ways a fitness program can help you in your weight loss journey:

1. Teach Yourself New Skills

There are many different forms of exercise; if you think you don't like exercising, you may have just not found the right type for you. However, some types of exercise can be daunting if you don't know how to do it properly. Weightlifting, for instance, can cause injury if done incorrectly. During a fitness program, your instructor can show you how to lift weights and do other exercises safely and effectively.

2. Offer Encouragement

Positive reinforcement goes a long way toward reshaping your behaviors. When you sign up for a fitness class, your instructor and fellow classmates can provide support and encouragement when you need it most. Having someone cheering you on can boost your mood and increase your determination to succeed.

3. Hold Yourself Accountable

People don't like disappointing others. When you sign up for a fitness program, you'll tell your instructor about your weight loss and fitness goals. They will help you by designing a program around you, and you'll check in with them at your sessions. If you've been cheating on your diet that week, the scale will show it. Being accountable to someone else for your choices can encourage you to stick to the lifestyle changes you want to make.

4. Build Lasting Habits

When you repeat the same actions over time, they become almost automatic. According to Psychology Today, this is caused in part by the fact that habits forge stronger connections along your neural pathways, actually changing the structure of your brain. Consistency is the key to sticking with any exercise routine, but in the beginning, you may be tempted to quit. Signing up for a fitness program will give you a reason to attend every class since most people don't like the idea of wasting money by skipping sessions.

A toned, svelte body is within your reach. Sign up for fitness programs to lose the excess weight you're carrying. In conjunction with diet changes, this can be just what you need to stay at a healthy weight for good.