No fad diets, quick fixes - just slow and steady wins the race.
When it comes to your weight loss journey or weight gain, or muscle building for that matter, it is information overload right! One post or ad will suggest cutting carbs, one will say fats are bad. Another, you should be doing hours of cardio… It is relentless.
But a balanced approach will always be the most sustainable in the long run.
It is my job as a coach to help you navigate through the BS and find what works for you. Whether you are reading this and are one of my online students, PT clients or a member of Feel Fit or not. Let’s discuss some best options.
There are a few things I will say though, is weight loss really the goal? Sometimes we need to look a little deeper at our goals. It could be that you want to build muscle and have that ‘toned’ look, or it could be that you are going after a goal that isn’t relevant to what you truly want or need. This is why when working with a coach is a good idea, it can help you clearly work out what you want to achieve and how to get there. I would also say it is so vital that you have a goal setting session with them.
Anyway back to the topic in mind, I will do another one of these blogs on building that ‘toned’ look later, but for now back to sustainable fat loss.
Body fat is actually something we need, I know that might not be what you want to hear! But it does serve a purpose, gives us energy, cushions joints and protects organs! Plus it helps regulate body temperature and secretion of certain hormones!! So sorry guys, we do actually need a bit!
What is the right amount we should have - well that depends, on the individual. Too little and this could cause health issues, like mood swings, poor concentration, fatigue, hair loss. There are more but you get the idea.
When looking at your weight or fat loss goal we should really talk about the difference, weight loss includes everything you lose, like body fat and water retention. However, just fat loss is a more sustainable way of working on it. Why? Because this is more about body composition, toned look - and also this way you don’t lose strength either, as no one wants to get weaker!!
How do we achieve this - well work with someone to work out the right balance in macros for you, what you do and your training. Always look to enjoy some of the foods you love every week or even everyday, this way it isn’t restrictive and we don’t end up binging.
Finding that right balance is definitely key to making this a long term goal.. Quick weight or fat loss is not the one, it promotes bad habits, bad relationships, restrictions.
We restrict, lose, eat/drink - put it back on! Some familiar? If this is you then hit me up - I would be happy to end this cycle.
Be patient, it's a journey we all go on at some point, you have to learn to love it!
So top tips
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Find the right balance for you
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Work out your macros
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Increase your daily activity, things like steps etc
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Strength train 2 - 3 times a week
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Cardio 1 - 2 times a week
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Ladies track your cycle as this will have an effect.
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Find the balance that you are going to be able to maintain - DO NOT RESTRICT or OVER train.
The above is a perfect way to get started even if you are a beginner. If you want to know or get any help then please do drop me a line ellie@myfeelfit.com or a message through our contact section below.
I hope this has helped just one of you and if you think it would help others please pass it on.