So, You’re Getting Yourself In Shape? [Part I]

Ah, its January. And while most people are coming off of their holiday high, us fitness professionals are gearing up for the biggest rush of exercise enthusiasts for the year. A new year means unavoidable resolutions filled with hope and dreams of having a healthier, slimmer, and better body.

PISH POSH

I realized very early in my career as a fitness trainer that the fitness industry is quick money and an easy way to take advantage of people. So it’s only right to include a few posts this week dedicated to helping you accomplish your health goals while being a smart shopper in the process.

But first, look at this picture of me.

I’m more conceited in 2010.

Before you do anything major to your eating regimen, consider the following:

Portion Control: This is really iffy because your eyes can be deceiving. A good trick to use is to order or prepare conservative portions knowing that you can always eat more if you are not full. A lot of times we get a lot of food in front of us and feel obligated to consume most if not all of it. I personally struggle with over eating because I’m addicted to feeling full. I learned recently that if you wait 15-20 minutes after eating a meal you can accurately determine your level of hunger and avoid over-eating. If you are still hungry afterwords, EAT. Starving your body is a dumb move since it will cause your body to steal nutrients from your bones and muscles in order to function.

Lunch: Plan what you are having for lunch 24 hours in advance. Regardless if you are bringing it or buying it, knowing it will alleviate any lunch time anxiety and make for a more pleasant meal. It will also help you stay on track if you are counting calories or changing your diet.

Soda Pop and Liquor: I am personally ignoring this one because I love alcohol at the moment BUT most people experience drastic physical changes when they omit these liquids out of their diet. They make your body highly acidic which weakens your immune and digestion systems. Also, the loss of the sugar and alcohol makes for better and more fulfilling workouts.

Water: It is the best gift from God that anyone could ever ask for (other than Britney Spears circa 2001). I drink insane amounts of water and I even remix that ish with lemon, cucumbers, or even sliced strawberries to maximize the cleansing properties. If you’re not a heavy water drinker, just try it. I swear on Britney’s comeback you’ll notice a difference in everything.

Myths About Dinner: Whatever you intend to do about your night time meals just remember one rule: Eat if you are hungry! Some say that eating after a certain hour is bad. Well, it is only bad if you go to sleep right after. If you are a night owl, your body is probably already adjusted so that you CAN eat late at night. Never go to bed thinking about food, it will distress your sleep.

Sleep: You might not think that sleep has anything to do with your body, but it does, shorty. Each night you should be able to fall asleep and wake up naturally without the need for an alarm. Most American’s can’t do that so you’re goal is to make changes so that you will eventually be able to achieve it. Last year, I made the resolution to fix my sleeping problem. I accomplished this by trading in my TV for a book. I have yet to finish the book because I pass out almost immediately from its boredom. (It has no pictures… I know, right?) I do keep an alarm clock but usually can wake up 5 to 30 minutes before it goes off. The most important change I noticed from getting my sleep in check was that I stopped getting tired after eating. I also didn’t need to eat as much throughout the day because my body wasn’t lacking energy.

If you find that you need or would like more assistance in getting your eating in check, consider working with a dietitian. They have a wealth of food knowledge and high tech gadgets designed to help you with planning your options. Also, I would recommend weight watchers. I have never used it but have seen the results of people who have. Stay away from diet systems and pills that process to let you eat whatever you want by giving you “special meals” that help you lose weight. They are artificial, over priced, and will destroy your insides.

Remember: If you want this, do it right, and be safe. There are no shortcuts. (Ironically enough, this also applies to “other” activities concerning the body.)