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How Many Times a Week Should I Work Out? Finding the Right Balance.

When it comes to individual fitness goals, a common question that often arises is, “How many times a week should I work out?” It’s an important consideration because finding the right balance is crucial for achieving optimal results while avoiding burnout or injury. If you’re based in Altrincham and Hale and looking for guidance on structuring your workout routine, this article will provide valuable insights as to what philosophies our personal trainers use to help you make informed decisions and maximise each individual’s fitness journey.

 

Understand Your Goals and Fitness Level:

 

Before determining the frequency of your workouts, it’s essential to understand your fitness goals and current fitness level. Are you aiming for weight loss, muscle gain, improved cardiovascular health, or overall fitness? Assessing your goals will help tailor your workout routine accordingly. Additionally, consider your current fitness level to determine the appropriate starting point and gradually progress. We utilise a fitness assessment to gather data to discover our clients starting point and progress the program from that point onwards.

 

The Importance of Rest and Recovery:

 

While exercise is crucial for achieving fitness goals, rest and recovery play an equally important role. Overtraining can lead to fatigue, decreased performance, and an increased risk of injury. Therefore, it’s vital to incorporate rest days into your routine. Adequate rest allows your muscles to recover, rebuild, and grow stronger. As a general guideline, aim for at least one to two rest days per week.

 

Frequency Recommendations:

 

The frequency of your workouts depends on several factors, including your goals, fitness level, and time availability. Here are some general recommendations to consider:

a. Beginners: If you’re new to exercise or returning after a long break, start with two to three workouts per week. This frequency allows your body to adapt and minimise the risk of overwhelming yourself.

b. General Fitness: For overall fitness maintenance, aim for three to five workouts per week. This frequency ensures consistency and helps you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

c. Weight Loss: If weight loss is your primary goal, consider increasing your workout frequency to four to six times per week. Combining cardiovascular exercises with strength training and a healthy step count can be beneficial in achieving weight loss goals.

d. Muscle Gain: If you’re looking to build muscle and strength, focus on three to six workouts per week, targeting different muscle groups on different days. Adequate rest between workouts is crucial for muscle recovery and growth.

 

Listen to Your Body:

 

While guidelines are helpful, it’s essential to listen to your body’s cues. Pay attention to how you feel physically and mentally. If you’re consistently fatigued, experiencing excessive soreness, or struggling to recover, it might be an indication that you need to reduce your workout frequency or intensity. Adjustments are necessary to avoid burnout and maintain long-term fitness success.

 

Determining how many times a week you should work out requires careful consideration of your goals, fitness level, and recovery needs. As a personal training business in Altrincham and Hale, we understand the importance of finding the right balance to help you achieve your fitness aspirations. If you have the opportunity to consult with a qualified personal trainer who can provide personalised guidance based on your individual circumstances. By striking a balance between exercise, rest, and recovery, you’ll pave the way for sustainable progress and a healthier, fitter you.

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Bone Health: Best Approaches for Optimal Bone Health

Bone strength is vital for maintaining overall health and preventing debilitating conditions like osteoporosis. While genetics play a significant role in bone health, there are several evidence-based approaches to improve bone strength and reduce the risk of fractures.

In this article, we will dive into scientifically supported methods to enhance bone health.

Resistance Training:

Resistance training, also known as weight-bearing or strength training, is a cornerstone for improving bone strength. Studies consistently demonstrate its positive impact on bone mineral density (BMD) and overall bone health. Weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, and resistance machines are effective means of applying mechanical stress to bones, stimulating bone formation and remodelling. Aim for two to three sessions per week, focusing on exercises targeting major muscle groups. As a personal training facility we are constantly encouraging our clients who are in the over 50s populations to continue with their resistance training in a safe and effective manner.

 

Some interesting statistics:

-According to a 2019 study in Acta Orthopaedica, the one-year mortality after a hip fracture is 21% for those whose fracture is surgically repaired. If the fracture is not repaired, the one-year mortality is about 70%.

–One in three adults aged 50 and over dies within 12 months of suffering a hip fracture. Older adults have a five-to-eight times higher risk of dying within the first three months of a hip fracture compared to those without a hip fracture. This increased risk of death remains for almost ten years.

 

This can be prevented with a simple resistance training program 2-3 times per week, contact us to find out more how you can receive expert guidance from our coaches and we can work with you 1-1 in person in our private gym, or remotely online.

High-Impact Exercises:

High-impact activities, such as jumping, skipping, running, and dancing, subject bones to greater gravitational forces, leading to improved bone density. Research indicates that these activities stimulate bone growth and enhance bone mineralisation. However, individuals with existing joint issues or replacements should consult a engaging in high-impact exercises. Within your personal training facility we have a number of clients with hip and knee replacement. Due to these conditions it would be advised that you focus more on resistance training.

Adequate Calcium Intake:

Calcium is a vital nutrient for bone health as it contributes to bone mineralisation. Ensure you consume an adequate amount of calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, . The recommended daily intake for adults is around 1000-1200 mg of calcium, depending on age and gender. Calcium supplements may be necessary for those unable to meet their requirements through diet alone.

Foods with the highest calcium content per 100g:

Dairy Products:

  • Milk (cow’s, goat’s, or sheep’s milk) – 120 mg
  • Yogurt (plain or Greek) – 110-150 mg
  • Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, etc.) – 700-1100 mg
  • Cottage cheese – 83 mg

Fish:

  • Sardines (canned, with bones) – 382 mg
  • Salmon (canned, with bones) – 215 mg
  • Canned fish with edible bones (such as anchovies) – varies by type, around 200-300 mg

Leafy Green Vegetables:

  • Kale – 150 mg
  • Spinach – 99 mg
  • Collard greens – 145 mg
  • Turnip greens – 190 mg
  • Mustard greens – 115 mg

Nuts and Seeds:

  • Almonds – 264 mg
  • Sesame seeds – 975 mg
  • Chia seeds – 631 mg
  • Brazil nuts – 160 mg

Legumes:

  • White beans – 175 mg
  • Navy beans – 140 mg
  • Chickpeas (garbanzo beans) – 49 mg
  • Black-eyed peas – 35 mg

Fortified Foods:

  • Fortified orange juice – varies by brand, around 30-50 mg
  • Fortified plant-based milk alternatives (such as almond milk, oat milk, etc.) – varies by brand, around 120-300 mg

Other Sources:

  • Broccoli – 47 mg
  • Edamame – 63 mg
  • Figs (dried) – 162 mg
  • Amaranth – 159 mg
  • Quinoa – 31 mg

 

Sufficient Vitamin D Levels:

Vitamin D is essential for optimal calcium absorption and utilisation. It aids in regulating bone mineralization and maintaining calcium balance. Sunlight exposure triggers vitamin D synthesis in the skin, but it can be challenging to obtain adequate levels solely through sunlight especially for our clients who reside in sunny Manchester. Consider consuming vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks. In some cases, supplements may be necessary, especially for individuals with limited sun exposure, especially black and Asian communities living in locations with limited sun exposure or certain medical conditions.

 

Vitamin K2:

Vitamin K2 is a lesser-known but crucial nutrient for bone health. It plays a vital role in activating proteins involved in bone mineralization and preventing calcium from depositing in arteries and soft tissues. Good food sources of vitamin K2 include fermented foods like natto (fermented soybeans), sauerkraut, and certain types of cheese, particularly aged and hard cheeses. Including these foods in your diet can help ensure adequate intake of vitamin K2 for optimal bone health.

 

Balanced Diet:

A well-rounded, balanced diet is crucial for bone health. In addition to calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2, ensure you consume adequate amounts of other bone-supporting nutrients, including magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats should be the foundation of your diet as they provide a variety of nutrients necessary for optimal bone health.

 

Alcohol and Smoking:

Certain lifestyle choices can negatively impact bone health. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it interferes with calcium absorption and affects bone remodelling. Smoking is also detrimental to bone health, as it hampers bone formation and reduces estrogen levels in women, leading to accelerated bone loss. Minimizing or eliminating these factors is essential for maintaining healthy bones.

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Benefits of L-Citrulline

L-citrulline is a non-essential amino acid that is naturally found in watermelon, among other fruits and vegetables. It is also available as a dietary supplement and has gained popularity as a performance-enhancing supplement among athletes and bodybuilders. We will run through the health benefits of L-citrulline, why you should take it, when you should take it, who should take it, and what studies have shown about its benefits.

 

Health Benefits of L-citrulline

L-citrulline has several health benefits, including:

 

  1. Improved Exercise Performance: L-citrulline has been shown to improve exercise performance by reducing fatigue and enhancing energy levels. It does this by increasing the production of nitric oxide in the body, which helps to dilate blood vessels allowing the arteries to relax to work better and thus an increase of blood flow to the muscles. This, in turn, helps to reduce fatigue and improve endurance.
  2. Lowered Blood Pressure: L-citrulline has also been shown to lower blood pressure by improving the function of the endothelium, which is the inner lining of blood vessels. This can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
  3. Improved Erectile Function: L-citrulline has been shown to improve erectile function in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. It does this by increasing blood flow to the penis and improving the production of nitric oxide.
  4. Enhanced Sexual Function: L-citrulline has been shown to improve sexual function in both men and women. It does this by increasing blood flow to the genitals, which can enhance arousal and improve sexual pleasure.
  5. Reduced Fatigue: L-citrulline has been shown to reduce fatigue and improve energy levels. This can be especially beneficial individuals who are juggling multiple responsibilities and often feel tired or exhausted.
  6. Improved Immune Function: L-citrulline has been shown to improve immune function by increasing the production of white blood cells and enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections.

 

 

Why You Should Take L-citrulline

Whether you are looking to improve your general health an athlete or bodybuilder, you may benefit from the consumption of L-citrulline as a performance enhancing supplement. It can help to improve exercise performance, reduce fatigue, and enhance energy levels. If you have mild to moderate erectile dysfunction, you may also benefit from taking L-citrulline to improve your erectile function.

Additionally, if you have high blood pressure or are at risk of heart disease or stroke, L-citrulline may help to lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of these conditions.

 

When You Should Take L-citrulline?

 

The best time to take L-citrulline is about 30 minutes before exercise or physical activity. This will allow enough time for the supplement to be absorbed into the bloodstream and begin working. If you are taking L-citrulline for erectile dysfunction, it is best to take it daily for at least 4-6 weeks to see the full benefits.

 

Who Should Take L-citrulline?

L-citrulline is generally safe for most people to take, but it may not be suitable for everyone. If you have a medical condition or are taking medication, you should talk to your doctor before taking L-citrulline. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking L-citrulline, as there is not enough research on its safety in these populations as yet.

 

What Studies Have Shown About the Benefits of L-citrulline?

 

Several studies have shown that L-citrulline can improve exercise performance, lower blood pressure, improve erectile function, and enhance immune function. For example, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that taking L-citrulline before exercise improved bench press performance in trained athletes. Another study published in the European Journal of Nutrition found that taking L-citrulline for 8 weeks improved erectile function in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. 

Recommended L-citrulline brand online:

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Overcoming Gym Intimidation.

Are you feeling intimidated by the gym environment? Do you feel like everyone is staring at you, judging you for not being in shape or not knowing how to use the equipment? If so, you are not alone. Many people experience this type of gym anxiety, and it can be a significant barrier to achieving your fitness goals.

 

Don’t let your fear of the gym environment stop you from getting the exercise which you need and is important for your health. Everyone in the gym environment are present to progress and get one step closer to their health and fitness goals. There are several things you can do to combat gym intimidation and feel more comfortable in the gym.

 

One of the most effective ways to combat gym intimidation is to go with a friend. Having someone to workout with can make the gym environment feel less intimidating and more supportive. A friend can provide you with encouragement and motivation, and you can hold each other accountable for your workouts. You can also learn from each other along the way and support each other.

 

Another way to combat gym intimidation is to join a group training class. Group classes are a great way to be part of a community and feel less alone in the gym environment. You can meet new people who have similar fitness goals and interests, and you can work together to achieve those goals. Be mindful that the group classes are also led by a qualified coach who can provide you with guidance and support. The group atmosphere can be energising and motivating surrounded by like minded individuals who are striving to become fitter and healthier.

 

If you prefer a more personalised and focused approach, consider personal training within a private environment. A private personal training facility can be a great solution for those who feel intimidated by the gym environment. A private facility typically has a more focused and personalised environment, and you will have the undivided attention from a professional trainer who can guide you through your workout and provide you with the support and encouragement you need.

A personal trainer can help you develop a workout plan that is tailored to your specific goals and fitness level. They can also teach you how to use the equipment properly and provide you with tips and techniques to help you get the most out of your workout. A personal trainer can also provide you with a plan that you can do outside of your personal training which will give you the right structure and guidance. With a personal trainer by your side, you will feel more confident and less intimidated in the gym and you will be learning new skills that you can use when you enter a gym environment alone.

 

Another tip to combat gym intimidation is to start small. Don’t try to do too much too soon it’s not a competition it’s a pursuit of personal progression. Start with exercises that you feel comfortable doing and gradually work your way up to more challenging workouts. As you become more comfortable in the gym environment, you can increase the intensity and complexity of your workouts.

 

Finally, remember that everyone in the gym is there for the same reason: to improve their fitness and health. No one is judging you, and everyone has to start somewhere. Focus on your own goals and progress, and don’t worry about what anyone else is doing. Don’t hesitate take the steps to start your fitness journey immediately.

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Do I really need to exercise to be healthy?

As a personal trainer running a private personal training facility, I often get asked the question, “Do I really need to exercise to be healthy?” The answer is a resounding yes. Exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health, both physical and mental.

 

Not getting enough physical activity can lead to a variety of diseases and symptoms. These include but are not limited to obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and even some forms of cancer. Not only that, but a lack of exercise can also lead to symptoms such as fatigue, poor sleep quality, and a weakened immune system.

 

Regular exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen your bones and muscles, improve your balance, improve mobility and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, exercise can have a positive impact on your mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and improving your overall mood and self-esteem.

 

Physical changes to your body can also be seen with regular exercise. These changes include improved muscle tone and definition, increased strength and endurance, and better flexibility and balance. If you look better your most certainly going to feel better. Regular exercise can also improve your posture, which can help prevent back pain and other posture-related issues.

 

Certain populations may require different amounts and types of exercise. It’s important to find what works best for you as an individual and not try and follow any generic programs. Hiring a personal trainer can help you assess your current fitness levels and tailor a program towards you as an individual. For example, older adults may benefit from lower-impact exercises such as walking or a stationary bike to improve their fitness, in addition to some stability exercises to help with their balance and flexibility, perhaps using more machine based exercises which are externally stable to build and retain muscle mass. Pregnant women may need to modify their exercise routine to ensure the safety of both themselves and their unborn child.

 

It’s worth noting that our ancestors were less sedentary and more active, without the aid of labour-saving devices that we have today. This means that our bodies were designed to move, and regular exercise is essential for our overall health and wellbeing.

 

If you’re just starting out with exercise, it’s important to take things slow and start with a routine that is appropriate for your fitness level that you can progress. This might mean starting with a simple walking routine, or working with a personal trainer to develop a customised workout plan that meets your individual needs and goals.

 

In conclusion, regular exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health, both physical and mental. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen your muscles and bones, and improve your overall mood and self-esteem. So, start incorporating exercise into your daily routine today and take control of your health and wellbeing! Stop putting it off and get yourself moving today.

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Gymnema sylvestre – the sugar destroyer

Gymnema sylvestre, also known as the sugar destroyer or miracle fruit, is a popular medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various health conditions. The herb is native to India and is also found in other parts of Asia, Africa, and Australia. The leaves of Gymnema sylvestre contain active compounds such as gymnemic acids, which are responsible for the herb’s medicinal properties. Here are some of the health benefits of Gymnema sylvestre:

 

Blood sugar control: Gymnema sylvestre has been found to be effective in reducing blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The active compounds in Gymnema sylvestre are known to block the absorption of glucose in the intestine and also increase insulin secretion, which helps to lower blood sugar levels.

 

Weight loss: Gymnema sylvestre can also aid in weight loss. It contains compounds that help to reduce sugar cravings and prevent overeating. By reducing sugar cravings, Gymnema sylvestre can also help to reduce calorie intake, which can lead to weight loss.

 

Lower cholesterol levels: Studies have shown that Gymnema sylvestre can help to lower cholesterol levels in the body. The herb works by reducing the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, which helps to lower the overall cholesterol levels in the body.

 

Anti-inflammatory properties: Gymnema sylvestre has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is linked to various health conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.

 

Digestive health: Gymnema sylvestre has been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive problems such as constipation, indigestion, and flatulence. The herb has been found to have a laxative effect and can help to promote bowel movements.

 

Anti-cancer properties: Gymnema sylvestre contains compounds that have been found to have anti-cancer properties. The herb has been found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and also induce apoptosis, which is the programmed cell death of cancer cells.

Gymnema sylvestre is a powerful herb that has many health benefits. Gymnema sylvestre is available in various forms such as capsules, teas, and extracts. For the most part we recommend the consumption of this herb for our personal training clients who struggle with sugar cravings and snacking as a strategy to help them create long lasting habits that will improve their overall health.  

Find Gymnema Drops Online:

Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre or Marsdenia sylvestris) Leaves, Liquid Extract Drops 120 ml

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Is Personal Training Too Expensive?

When it comes to fitness and health, there’s often a perception that personal training is too expensive. While it’s true that personal training can be costly, it’s essential to recognise that poor health and psychological well-being can also be very expensive.

 

We all have priorities, and it’s important to consider where our health falls on that list. Without good health, it can be difficult to enjoy other aspects of our lives fully. It’s also essential to understand that investing in our health is a long-term investment in ourselves.

 

Personal training may seem expensive, but when you compare it to the costs associated with poor health, it can be a very cost-effective option. Medical bills, missed workdays, and reduced quality of life can all result from poor health, which can be costly in both financial and emotional terms.

 

The benefits of personal training go beyond physical fitness. Personal trainers can help clients set realistic goals and develop a focused program that caters to their specific needs. A personal trainer can also hold you accountable, ensuring you stay on track with your fitness journey.

 

When you choose to work with a personal trainer, you also benefit from focused training with minimal distractions. At a traditional gym, it’s easy to become sidetracked by other gym-goers, equipment, and noise. In contrast, working with a personal trainer in a private gym environment means you can focus on your goals and get the most out of your workouts.

 

It’s worth noting that personal training is not for everyone, and that’s okay. However, anyone who has considered taking steps to get into shape should at least explore the option of hiring a personal trainer. The benefits of having someone guide you through your fitness journey can be invaluable.

 

It’s important to remember that getting fit and healthy is hard work and takes effort. But so does being overweight, unfit, tired, and unhealthy. It’s a matter of choosing your hard. Prioritising your health and investing in yourself is one of the most important things you can do. And with the help of a personal trainer, you can make sure you’re on the right track to achieving your health and fitness goals.

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Which training split should I follow?

As a personal trainer, one of the most common questions we receive from clients is, “What workout split should I follow?” The answer to that question largely depends on your overall goals and work schedule. In this article, we will explore the most popular workout splits and their benefits to see which one may suit you.

1. Full Body: The full body workout split involves targeting all major muscle groups in one workout session. This split is perfect for beginners or individuals who have limited time to devote to working out. Full body workouts are typically performed 2-3 times per week, with each workout targeting the whole body adopting some variations to the movements. This split is great for improving overall strength and hypertrophy for those with less time available within their week.

Example:
Monday – Full Body
Wednesday – Full Body
Friday – Full Body

 

2. Full Body Push/Pull Workout Split: The full body push/pull workout split is similar to the full body workout split, but it is broken down into two categories: push or anterior chain exercises (quadriceps, pecs, deltoids, and triceps) and pull exercises or posterior chain exercises (glutes, hamstrings, gastrocnemius, lats, rhomboids, traps, rear delts and biceps). This workout split is ideal for individuals who want to focus on higher frequencies of stimulus to each muscle group. This split can also be performed 4-6 times per week.

Example A:

4 Day Split
Monday – Full Body Push
Tuesday – Full Body Pull
Thursday – Full Body Push
Friday – Full Body Pull

Example B:

6 Day Split
Monday – Full Body Push
Tuesday – Full Body Pull
Wednesday – Full Body Push
Thursday – Full Body Pull
Friday – Full Body Push
Saturday – Full Body Pull

3. Push/Pull/Legs Workout Split: The push/pull/legs workout split is one of the most popular workout splits. This split involves targeting different muscle groups on different days. Push exercises (chest, shoulders, triceps) are targeted on day one, pull exercises (back, biceps) are targeted on day two, and legs are targeted on day three. This workout split is ideal for individuals who want to focus on building strength and muscle in their upper and lower body. This split can also be performed 3-6 times per week.

Example A:

3 Day Split
Monday – Upper Push
Wednesday – Upper Pull
Friday – Legs

Example B:

6 Day Split
Monday – Upper Push
Tuesday – Upper Pull
Wednesday – Legs
Thursday – Upper Push
Friday – Upper Pull
Saturday – Legs

4. Upper Body/Lower Body Workout Split: The upper body/lower body workout split involves targeting different muscle groups on different days. The upper body is targeted on day one, and the lower body is targeted on day two. This split is great for individuals who want to focus on building strength in their upper and lower body but may not have the time to devote to a full body workout split. This split can also be performed 2-4 times per week.

Example A:

2 Day Split
Tuesday – Upper
Thursday – Lower

Example B:

4 Day Split
Monday – Upper
Tuesday – Lower
Thursday – Upper
Friday – Lower

5. Hybrid Workout Split: The hybrid workout split is a combination of different workout splits. This split can be customized to meet individual fitness goals. For example, an individual may choose to perform a full body push workout on day one, a full body pull workout on day two, an upper body on day three and a lower body workout on day four. This split is great for individuals who want to challenge themselves with a variety of exercises and muscle groups. These types of splits can are used a lot by physique athletes who may want to bring up certain areas of their physique the example we have given is for an individual who may want more development from their arms and delts.

Example:

6 Day Split
Monday – Push
Tuesday – Pull
Wednesday – Legs
Thursday – Full Body Pull
Friday – Full Body Push
Saturday – Delts, Biceps and Triceps

When choosing a workout split, it is important to consider which frequency that you can keep consistent. If you are unsure which workout split is best for you, consult with our personal trainers who can help you create a customised workout plan that best suit you and your overall goals. Always remembering that consistency is key when it comes to achieving your fitness goals.

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Fat Loss Simplified

Fat loss is the process of losing body fat in order to become leaner and healthier. To understand how fat loss works, it’s important to know a little bit about how the body stores and uses energy.

The food we eat is broken down into various nutrients, including carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. These nutrients are then used by the body for energy, growth, and repair.

 

When we eat more food than our body needs for energy, the excess energy is stored as fat. This fat can be stored anywhere in the body, but is typically found around the belly, hips, and thighs.

To lose fat, we need to create a calorie deficit, which means consuming fewer calories than our body needs for energy. This forces the body to use its stored fat for energy, resulting in fat loss.

One way to create a calorie deficit is by reducing the amount of food we eat, either by cutting back on portion sizes or choosing lower calorie foods. This can be easily tracked using a calorie tracker like MyFitnessPal. Another way is to increase our level of physical activity, which burns more calories and can help create a calorie deficit.

 

The main habits simplified of a Fat Loss Protocol that Yields 80% of Desired Results:

  1. Calorie Deficit: As mentioned earlier, the most important aspect of fat loss is creating a calorie deficit. This can be achieved by reducing your calorie intake, increasing your physical activity, or a combination of both. An approximate calorie deficit of 500 calories per day is recommended for healthy and sustainable weight loss.
  2. Strength Training: Strength training is an effective way to preserve muscle mass while losing body fat. It also helps to increase your metabolism, which means you burn more calories at rest. Aim to do strength training exercises at least twice a week.
  3. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT is a type of cardio that involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest. It has been shown to be more effective at burning fat than steady-state cardio. Aim to do HIIT exercises at least once a week.
  4. NEAT: Non Exercise Activity Thermogenesis – is a type of physical activity that is distinct from exercise and is considered to be a significant contributor to overall energy expenditure. Examples of NEAT activities include taking the stairs instead of the elevator, standing at your desk instead of sitting, or simply moving around more throughout the day. NEAT can have a significant impact on overall health and fitness, as it can help to increase energy expenditure, improve cardiovascular health.
  5. Protein Intake: Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. It also helps to keep you full, which can prevent overeating. Aim to consume at least 0.8-1 gram of protein per pound of body weight per day.
  6. Sleep: Sleep is crucial for weight loss and overall health. Lack of sleep can increase the levels of the hormone cortisol, which can lead to weight gain. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

 

Focused Plan to Master Fat Loss Protocol:

  1. Calculate Your Calorie Needs: Use an online calculator or hire a coach to determine your daily calorie needs. Once you have this number, subtract 500 calories to create a calorie deficit.
  2. Plan Your Meals: Plan your meals in advance to ensure you stay within your calorie limit. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods such as lean protein, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
  3. Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises such as squat variations, hip hinging movements, pulling movements and presses into your workout routine. Aim to do these exercises at least twice a week.
  4. HIIT: Incorporate HIIT exercises such as sprints, ski erg/rowing intervals, into your workout routine. Aim to do these exercises at least once a week. If this doesn’t appeal to you find something that you enjoy that can help you get your heart rate up like paddle tennis or a boxing class.
  5. Protein: Make sure to include protein with every meal. Good sources of protein include meat, chicken, fish, eggs, and beans.
  6. Sleep: Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.

As personal trainers we try and strive for our personal training clients to have all of these areas covered or to provide a strategy to help individuals improve and progress upon these areas. The truth is if you are not willing to take action then you will not achieve your desired results. Even if your starting point is at the bottom end of the spectrum its very important to implement and practise the lifestyle habits required to keep you on track. When we say practice we mean it, you might make mistakes along the way but total effort towards making stratergised changes along the way which can be discussed with your coach during check ins is the only way you are going to build on your habits. The mind set you need to cultivate in order to progress and stay committed is off all importance, fuel it by your daily intentions to make as much effort as humanly possible towards practising these habits into your weekly schedule.

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Getting started for a beginner in the gym.

As a personal trainer, I understand how overwhelming it can be for beginners to step into a gym for the first time. With so many different machines, equipment, and training programs available, it can be hard to know where to start. However, getting started in the gym doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, with the right guidance and knowledge, it can be a very rewarding and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help complete beginners get started in the gym.

 

First, it’s important to set some realistic goals. Think about what you want to achieve and what your fitness level is currently. It’s important to be honest with yourself about your current fitness level and what you are capable of achieving in a reasonable amount of time. A personal trainer can sit down with you and layout some realistic micro and macro goals and give you the correct structure and guidance on how to navigate to attain them.

 

Once you have set your goals, you can start planning your workout routine.

When it comes to training splits, there are many different options available. Some popular training splits include full-body workouts, upper/lower splits, and push/pull/legs splits. Full-body workouts are great for beginners because they allow you to work all of your muscle groups in a single session. Upper/lower splits focus on the upper body in one workout and the lower body in another, while push/pull/legs splits separate your workouts into upper body pushing movements, upper body pulling movements, and leg exercises.

 

Regardless of the type of training split you choose, it’s important to incorporate a variety of exercises to ensure that you are working all of your muscle groups. This can include compound exercises like squat variations, hinging variations, pressing movements and pulling movements, as well as isolation exercises like bicep curls and tricep extensions. It’s also important to start with lighter weights and focus on perfecting your exercise execution before gradually increasing the weight. It’s important that you learn how to control the weight through the full range of motion and that you learn how to contract the muscle that you are trying to work rather than just moving the load from A to B with zero intent.

 

While it’s possible to get started in the gym on your own, hiring a personal trainer is often the best way to learn how to exercise correctly. A personal trainer can help you set realistic goals, develop a bespoke workout plan based on your fitness level and goals, and teach you proper exercise execution. They can also help you track your progress and adjust your workout plan as needed.

 

A personal trainer can help navigate through all the challenges that will come your way along the path and coach you to you remain motivated and accountable. Starting a new workout routine can be challenging, but having a personal trainer by your side can help you stay focused and committed to achieving your goals. They can also provide valuable advice on nutrition and lifestyle habits to help you achieve your fitness goals faster. Which is that hardest part of the process for most individuals.

 

Getting started in the gym can be daunting for complete beginners. However, with the right guidance and knowledge, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Setting realistic goals, choosing the right training split, and incorporating a variety of exercises are all key to a successful workout routine. Hiring a personal trainer is the best way to learn how to exercise correctly and stay on track within your fitness journey. Don’t wait for tomorrow or Monday start today step foot into the gym and get comfortable within the environment, everyone is in the gym for the same reason and that’s to progress and achieve a stronger healthier body.