It was nearly 5 years ago, but I did receive an ACE certificate in Personal Training. I can't speak for myself since I drink too much beer and have gained my beer weight. But depending on your body size and structure, also genetics, what works for some may not work for others.
Some simple weight loss tips:
Add water to your diet. Cut out sodas (or in my case, beer). I keep one of those big 1 qt arrowhead bottles with me and drink about 2-3 a day. This helps your metabolism and flushes any fat you may work off out of your sytem. Your body has to have away to get rid of it somehow right?
Avoid breads and starches. They are a pointless food. All they do is take up space.
Take deeper breaths, and breath appropriately when working out. Increased oxygen helps your blood flow easier and increase your metabolism.
To avoid cravings and pointless helpings of fatty foods, remember the first time you say no it is easier and easier to continue to say no.
If you have a hard time getting motivated to exercise, one thing I used to tell clients was to go out and buy a new pair of good workout shoes. I've found wearing them motivates you to use them.
Anaerobic (i.e. weight lifting) exercise can be just as, if not more beneficial in the long run than aerobic. The more muscle you build and develop, the more calories you'll burn through out the day.
Make sure if you begin to use weights, for women, use smaller size. I would say 10-12lbs max. 3-5lbs for beginners. Increase the ammount of reps you do, not the weight. This will tone long lean muscle, instead of bulking up.
I think that's it for right now. If I remember more throughout the day I'll let you know