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The unsung hero of weight loss and diet restriction
Before I get to my last wave of clients I always hit up the cafe or coffee shop. Can’t speak for everybody, but nothing gets my creative juices flowing than sipping on a hot brew with Ice Cube’s It Was a Good Day playing. As I write this, I’m already waiting for my second cup to be poured.
This got me thinking about my never-ending wrestling match with people who are simply trying to get healthier and considerably leaner. Most go to great lengths pulling on different levers in hopes of finding the absolute best plan. Not once does it ever occur that maybe, just maybe instead of over analyzing the situation, perhaps approach things with less angst.
Q: How is it that there are some people who easily lose weight?
A: It’s hard a pill to swallow, but there are people who have a genetic predisposition to losing weight and gaining muscle much faster than others. That having been said, there are other variables we can control. Beyond hitting the gym and dieting, the overlooked and unexpected component that is pretty significant is your non-exercise activity. Moving throughout the day accounts for a good chunk of your caloric output. Track your steps, make it a habit to get up and walk 5-10 minutes every hour you’re sitting at your desk. Do what you have to. The onus is on you to maintain a high level of activity outside the gym.
Q: I’ve thought about it and I’m really going to step my game up with the diet. What do you think?
A: Going cold turkey can be a useful strategy to make strides. However, going too far that-a-way often leads to an unhealthy relationship with food. This highlights the fact that preference and competing demands have to be taken into account when determining which direction to take. Hopping on a diet or any discipline without any thought on what you are going to be changing in your life is a surefire way of underachieving. Compliance is pretty darn important, and you stand a much better chance when you inject a dose of freedom or some flexibility.
