How to reward your weight-loss efforts...without ruining your diet

For most women, losing weight isn't just an ideal, it's a chore. That's why it's so important to keep yourself motivated over the course of your weight-loss plan and regular fitness routine. One of the best ways to do this is by rewarding yourself every time you achieve one of your goals.

"An incentive program that provides frequent positive feedback can be very effective at changing behavior," Dr. Kevin Volpp, director of the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics Center for Health Incentives, told ABC News.

One of the problems with this approach is that many women tend to reward themselves with the thing dieters crave most: food. And not just any food - rich, indulgent, sexy foods, like chocolate truffle cake and hot fudge sundays. After all, you've earned it, right?

Perhaps, but giving yourself such rewards only sets you back further from your ultimate goal. That's why rewarding yourself with something that isn't food-related is a better option.

Consider treating yourself to a new outfit or accessory instead, like a pair of shoes. A book you've been dying to read or a fancy kitchen gadget are also good choices. And on those occasions where you've really met your milestones, treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment that will leave you feeling relaxed and underscore your ultimate goal: achieving a healthy body that you can feel good about.