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Training for busy people
One afternoon prior to their training session, I sat down with both of them. Their unbridled enthusiasm was starting to fade once they fully understood the direction they were going was not the way we had originally planned. You just can’t expect to make meaningful, enduring changes without a measure of discomfort. That goes without saying.
In an attempt to justify their series of slipups, one of them asked, “Do you think I’m in starvation mode?” I didn’t bother to give her a smarty-pants explanation because I realized she didn’t know any better. Nonetheless, her ill attempt to cop a plea didn’t pan out.
If you’re counting on seeing results after having only done two weeks worth of training, you’re delusional.
Q: With kids and a full-time job, the only time I can workout is around lunch. What’s the best workout I can do to ensure I stay consistent?
A: Take a step back and have some perspective. If time is of the essence or you’re bogged down from work, make the most out of it. Remember, what constitutes busy is different for everybody. Some have more baggage than others and if all you can spare is 15-20 minutes, just get it done. Do a full-body strength circuit.
Combine exercises like split squats, deadlifts, pushups, rows, and plank variations. There’s also utility in machine-based workouts. Done well three times a week does the job of promoting the positive adaptations we want without having to spend hours in the gym.
Q: I want to make sure I get this right. The amount of carbs I eat depends on my level of activity? Just to clarify, I don’t really know how to diet.
A: Precisely. To be fair, most people don’t know how to eat. With so many diet camps pulling us in different directions, it’s hard to pluck out the big rocks. Your body is much more responsive to carbohydrates during and after training. You don’t have to get crazy with it, though. Remember, too much of anything has its drawbacks. A serving of a fruit of your choice, one slice of toast, or a cup of rice should suffice.
General rule of thumb: dial it back on non-training days or where your activity level is low.
