The Basics – #1

For most people, the idea of getting in shape falls into one of two categories. Losing fat or building muscle. Yes, there are many other goals. Such as getting fit, toning up, firming up, slimming down, bulking, and getting ripped. But these are really just different ways of describing the above two categories. So, let’s focus on those.

Nutrition

Without a doubt, in all the years I’ve spent looking to achieve the type of body I wanted, the most important point is nutrition. I can’t tell you how long I spent trying to figure out ways around this fact. So many years spinning my wheels. If you can get a good understanding of the importance of nutrition in achieving your goals, you will be more than half way there. Trust me. I know.

I think a big part of this steep learning curve is simply down to confusion. There are endless diets and food myths. From every source – books, magazine articles, celebrity tips, the bodybuilding community, online forums, etc. What I eventually realised, was that the reason there was so much misinformation out was that people are busy. They don’t have the time to learn this stuff. This leads to people looking for a quick fix.

Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes. At least none that will give you any meaningful results. You may lose a few pounds, or gain a few (depending on your goal). But it’s temporary. Usually the result of water loss or gain. It takes time to lose fat. And it takes time to gain muscle. You have to be patient with both of these goals. So what do I suggest?

Take it slow. Use common sense. Be consistent. If you follow these three steps, you will begin to see that you can change your body, and your health.

Take It Slow

Make small changes to start. Avoid the temptation to “start tomorrow”. Instead, start today. Add some healthy vegetables to your dinner. Broccoli, kale, peppers, asparagus. Whatever takes your fancy. The next day, try some oatmeal with blueberries instead of white bread/sugary breakfast cereals. Later in the day have green tea (releases caffeine more slowly), decaffeinated green tea or a herbal tea, instead of a second (or fourth) coffee. Just keep making these little changes one at a time, shifting towards healthier choices. It all adds up.

Use Common Sense

This one is obvious. Which is the healthier choice? Deep fried chicken or roast chicken? Baked potato with the skin or chips? Sweets or fresh berries? We all know which is the healthier choice. We just have to make that choice. Not every time, but most of the time. If you are too strict in the beginning, you are more likely to get fed up and go off the rails. But if you are making the healthy choice 80% of the time, and you’re happy with your progress, then that’s great. Your on the right track.

Be Consistent

Keep making those little changes. And keep using your common sense. That’s it! It really is that simple.

If you would like me to go a little more into the specifics of nutrition, and give some examples of healthy choices in future posts, let me know in the comments below.

If you have any questions please comment below.

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