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Enhance Your Golf Game and Stay Injury-Free with Personal Training

 

At Soma Fitness, we have successfully helped numerous personal training clients improve their golf swing while reducing the risk of injury through personalised training programs. Here’s how personal training can enhance your golf game and keep you playing injury.

 

Golf is a sport that demands precision, power, stability and mobility. Yet, many golfers struggle with back pain, golfer’s elbow, and other injuries that can hinder performance and enjoyment of the game. free.

 

Boost Your Swing Power and Distance

A powerful and efficient golf swing relies on a combination of strength, stability mobility, and proper mechanics. Our training methods focus on:

 

  • Mobility Improvement: By enhancing thoracic rotation and extension, and hip internal and external rotation, we ensure that your body moves fluidly and efficiently through the swing.
  • Strength Training: Strengthening the lats, glutes (posterior oblique sling), deep spine muscles, and superficial core muscles increases the power behind your swing. This added strength and stability not only improves swing distance but also the control and accuracy of your shots.

 

Reduce the Risk of Common Golf Injuries

Injuries like back pain and golfer’s elbow are common among golfers, often due to poor stability and mobility. Our targeted exercises focus on:

  • Scapular Mobility and Shoulder Stability: Enhancing upward rotation of the scapula and stabilising the shoulders ensures that your upper body can handle the stresses of a powerful swing without injury.
  • Deep Spine and Core Strength and Stability: Strengthening the muscles around the spine and core reduces the forces on passive tissues, which helps prevent injuries like back pain. Once the spine can move freely and resist force your chances of injuring your back reduces dramatically.

 

Proven Success with Our Clients

Over the years, we have worked with many golfers who have seen remarkable improvements in their game. They’ve reported increased swing power and distance, better swing efficiency, and, importantly, a significant reduction in injuries. Thanks to the durability that our strength training provides, our clients are able to enjoy their game without the fear of injury holding them back.

 

Why Personal Training?

Our approach is tailored to each individual, ensuring that the exercises and training routines we recommend address your specific needs and goals. We combine expert knowledge of biomechanics with practical training techniques to help you achieve your best performance on the course. We take you through an assessment to see what areas you are lacking and need improvement on and we use this data to lay the foundations of your program.

 

Want to improve your golf game and stay injury-free? Book your free consultation today and let us help you take your golf skills to the next level.

 

The Mechanisms of Muscle Hypertrophy

Increasing lean body mass is a common goal for many of our personal training clients who come to us to learn how to engage in resistance training. Bodybuilders and powerlifters exemplify two distinct training styles, yet both groups display impressive muscle development. This raises the question: which method is superior for hypertrophy?

By examining the mechanisms of muscle hypertrophy—mechanical tension, muscle damage, and metabolic stress—and their application to resistance training, we can better understand how to optimise muscle growth.

Mechanisms of Muscle Hypertrophy

1. Mechanical Tension

Mechanical tension is generated when muscles contract against resistance, creating a force that stimulates muscle growth. This is a key driver of hypertrophy because it activates muscle protein synthesis pathways. High levels of mechanical tension can be achieved through lifting heavier weights, which is a common practice among powerlifters. This intense focus on mechanical tension contributes to significant muscle gains. Bodybuilders would also use mechanical tension to stimulate hypertrophy, using movements which engage muscles around the mid range where the muscle is able to generate a greater amount of force. We also use this with our clients working at rep ranges from around 6-8 reps.

 

2. Muscle Damage

Muscle damage occurs when muscle fibres experience micro-tears during intense exercise. The body repairs these micro-tears during recovery, leading to muscle growth. Eccentric contractions, such as slowly lowering a weight, are particularly effective at the contribution of muscle damage. While this mechanism contributes to hypertrophy, it must be managed to avoid excessive soreness or injury.

 

3. Metabolic Stress

Metabolic stress is the build-up of metabolites, such as lactate, during higher volumes sets with higher rep ranges using lighter loads. This stress creates a hormonal environment conducive to muscle growth by promoting cellular swelling and the production of growth factors. Bodybuilders often employ techniques that maximise metabolic stress, such as higher repetitions with light -moderate weights and smaller rest periods between sets. We generally use this methods with our personal training clients using exercises that engage muscles within the short to lengthened ranges.

 

Applying the Mechanisms to Resistance Training

To optimise muscle hypertrophy, it is crucial to incorporate elements of all three mechanisms into a well-rounded training program. Here’s how different approaches can be utilized:

1. Moderate Loads and Short Rest Intervals

Bodybuilders typically use moderate loads (around 60-75% of one-rep max) with short rest intervals (30-90 seconds). This approach maximises metabolic stress and induces muscle damage, contributing significantly to muscle growth. Training with moderate loads allows for higher volumes of work, which is beneficial for hypertrophy.

2. High-Intensity Loads and Long Rest Periods

Powerlifters often train with high-intensity loads (85-100% of one-rep max) and long rest periods (2-5 minutes). This method emphasises mechanical tension, as the muscles are subjected to high levels of force. While primarily aimed at enhancing strength, the mechanical tension generated also promotes muscle hypertrophy. Incorporating heavy lifting phases can be beneficial even for those primarily focused on muscle growth.

3. Combined Training Methods

A combined approach can harness the benefits of all hypertrophic mechanisms. For instance, using your compound movements or exercises that work the mid range of a muscle where the muscle has the ability to create more tension from more heavy lifting (to maximise mechanical tension) and utilising exercises that work the shortened and lengthened range of a muscle for higher volume training with short rest intervals (to maximise metabolic stress and muscle damage) can be a very effective method to increase your gains. This variety ensures that all pathways to hypertrophy are stimulated, leading to optimal muscle growth. These are methods we incorporate into many of our programs with our personal training clients, once they can execute the skill of the exercise with good form, then we push the button on these methods by increasing intensities via mechanical tension and metabolic stress.

Maximising muscle hypertrophy requires an understanding of the underlying mechanisms and their application in resistance training. By incorporating mechanical tension, and metabolic stress into a well-rounded training program, you can optimise your muscle growth. Whether through heavy lifting, moderate loads with short rest intervals, or a combination of both, the key is to stimulate all pathways to muscle hypertrophy. With insights from research, our personal trainers can design effective training protocols to help you achieve a strong healthy physique.

 

 

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10 Foods to avoid to reduce inflammation

 

During our time personal training clients in Hale and Altrincham we have found that one of the areas that causes problems to many is inflammation. In our quest for health and body composition goals, it’s essential to understand the factors that contribute to inflammation, something that builds up in silence that can wreak havoc on our well-being. Chronic inflammation, fuelled by our dietary choices and lifestyle habits, is increasingly linked to a host of chronic diseases. We uncover 10 habits to steer clear of for a life free from inflammation.

 

1. Excess Sugar Consumption

Indulging in sugary treats may satisfy your taste buds momentarily, but it sets off a cascade of inflammation within your body. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup sparingly, and choose fruits to satisfy your sweet cravings without spiking your blood sugar levels.

2. Fried and Processed Foods

Fast food fries and processed snacks may offer convenience, but they’re laden with trans fats, preservatives and toxic flavour enhancers that ignite inflammation. Instead, embrace whole single ingredient foods, unprocessed foods that nourish your body and support optimal health.

3. Processed Meats

Bacon, hot dogs, and other processed meats are notorious inflammation triggers due to their high salt and preservative content. Swap them out for organic alternatives like grass fed beef and lamb, turkey or chicken to protect your body from chronic inflammation.

4. Sweetened Snacks

Steer clear of sugary cereals and snacks, which can wreak havoc on your blood sugar levels and fuel inflammation. Choose nutrient-dense snacks like nuts, seeds, or whole fruits to keep inflammation at bay while satisfying your hunger.

5. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Frequent alcohol intake not only disrupts gut health but also fuels inflammation throughout the body. Limit your alcohol consumption to lower levels and opt for healthier alternatives like herbal teas or infused water to stay hydrated and inflammation-free.

6. White Flour Products

Refined carbohydrates found in white bread and pasta lack essential nutrients and fibre, promoting inflammation and blood sugar spikes. Opt for whole-grain alternatives to support stable blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation in your body.

7. Trans Fats

Steer clear of foods containing trans fats, such as margarine and fried snacks, as they elevate LDL cholesterol levels and promote inflammation. Choose natural sources of healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, coconut oil and nuts to support your body’s anti-inflammatory response.

8. Deep-Fried Foods

Indulging in battered and deep-fried foods regularly can inflame your digestive tract and contribute to chronic inflammation. Opt for healthier cooking methods like baking, grilling, or steaming to preserve nutrients and minimise inflammation.

9. Soda and Sugary Beverages

Sugar-sweetened beverages are double trouble, combining excess sugar with preservatives that can impair motor function and increase anxiety. Ditch the soda and opt for hydrating options like herbal teas or sparkling water with a splash of freshly squeezed lemon for a refreshing, inflammation-free alternative.

10. Artificial Sweeteners

Diet sodas and snacks containing artificial sweeteners may seem like healthier options, but they can disrupt gut health and exacerbate inflammation. Choose natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for a guilt-free indulgence that won’t fuel inflammation in your body.

 

At Soma Fitness, we’re committed to empowering you with the tools to work towards a life of vitality and well-being. Our personal trainers not only care about your body composition goals but also your health goals.

 

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Ingredients to Avoid in Ready Meals for Optimal Health

Our personal training clients often discuss with us the issue of having enough time to prep there meals daily which leads to bad nutritional choices. In the quest for convenience, take outs, ready meals and prepared foods have become staples in many households. While these options offer a quick solution to busy schedules, not all prepared meals are created equal. At Soma Fitness, we’re committed to your holistic well-being, which is why we feel it’s crucial to shed light on the ingredients commonly found in ready meals that may compromise your health.

Unveiling the Hidden Culprits

Many ready meals contain additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients that can have adverse effects on your health. Here are some ingredients to watch out for:

  1. Refined Sugar: Added sugars contribute to weight gain, inflammation, and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
  2. Artificial Sweeteners: Despite their zero-calorie allure, artificial sweeteners may disrupt gut health and metabolism, leading to metabolic dysfunction.
  3. Preservatives: Chemical preservatives like sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate can trigger allergic reactions and disrupt hormonal balance.
  4. Artificial Flavourings: Synthetic flavourings often mask the taste of processed ingredients and offer little nutritional value, potentially containing harmful chemicals.
  5. Hydrogenated Oils: Trans fats found in hydrogenated oils increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and inflammation in the body.

Choosing Wisely for Your Health

As your trusted personal training professionals, we encourage you to prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods whenever possible. When selecting ready meals or prepared foods, scrutinize the ingredient list and avoid products containing these harmful additives. Instead, opt for options that prioritize real, whole ingredients and minimal processing.

Introducing ONCO: A Brand Built on Integrity

At Soma Fitness, we’re proud to align ourselves with brands that share our values and commitment to ethical practices. One such brand is ONCO, a meal prep company dedicated to providing clean, nutritious meals crafted from the finest, highest-quality ingredients. With a focus on transparency and integrity, ONCO prioritizes your health and well-being above all else.

ONCO Meal Prep takes a radically different approach to ingredient sourcing and meal preparation. They prioritise your health above all else, which is why they use:

  • No sugar
  • No artificial sweeteners
  • No preservatives
  • No artificial flavourings or enhancers
  • No toxic oils

Conclusion: Empowering You to Make Informed Choices

Your health is our top priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. By educating yourself on the ingredients to avoid in ready meals, you can make empowered choices that align with your health and fitness goals. Together, let’s prioritize nourishing our bodies with wholesome, real foods for optimal health and vitality.

CHECK OUT ONCOS WEBSITE:

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The Power of Personal Training and Healthy Meal Prep

Are you struggling to find the time and motivation to prioritize your fitness goals? Do hectic schedules and endless commitments leave you feeling overwhelmed and unable to make progress? If so, it’s time to take control of your health and transform your life with the winning combination of personalized training and delicious, nutritious meal prep.

At Soma Fitness, we understand the challenges of achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle in today’s fast-paced world. That’s why we’re committed to providing you with the guidance, support, and motivation you need to unlock your full potential and achieve your fitness goals.

With our team of experienced personal trainers, you’ll receive personalized workout plans tailored to your unique needs, goals, and fitness level. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle, improve endurance, or enhance overall fitness, we’ll work with you every step of the way to ensure that you’re on the path to success.

But achieving your fitness goals isn’t just about exercise – it’s also about fuelling your body with the right nutrients to support your workouts and maximize results. That’s where healthy meal prep comes in. Our trusted meal prep provider, ONCO (www.theonco.com), offers a wide variety of delicious, chef-crafted meals made from locally sourced, ethically sourced, and organic ingredients. Their meals are sugar-free and artificial chemical-free, prepared fresh to order by professional chefs, and designed by nutritionists to provide optimal nourishment for your body and taste buds. ONCO’s meals are widely recognized as the best tasting meal preps in the industry, making them the perfect complement to your fitness journey.

By combining the power of personalized training with convenient, nutritious meal prep from ONCO, you’ll experience a multitude of benefits that can enhance your life and transform your health:

  1. Efficient Workouts, Effective Results: With personalized training from Soma Fitness, you’ll maximize your time in the gym and see results faster than ever before.
  2. Convenient, Hassle-Free Nutrition: Say goodbye to meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking with ONCO’s healthy meal prep. Their meals are prepared fresh to order and delivered straight to your door, so you can enjoy convenient, nutritious eating without the stress or hassle.
  3. Improved Energy and Performance: By fuelling your body with the right nutrients from ONCO’s meals, you’ll experience improved energy levels, enhanced performance, and faster recovery from workouts.
  4. Sustainable Lifestyle Habits: With the support of Soma Fitness and ONCO, you’ll develop sustainable lifestyle habits that promote long-term health and well-being.

Ready to take your fitness journey to the next level? Contact Soma Fitness today to schedule your personalized training sessions, and visit www.theonco.com to explore ONCO’s delicious meal prep options. With our experienced team of personal trainers and comprehensive approach to fitness, you’ll achieve your goals and transform your life.

For 20% off your first order us code LAUNCH20 at checkout.

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The Science and Benefits of Cold Therapy

In the pursuit of peak performance and optimal recovery, athletes and fitness enthusiasts are turning to a centuries-old practice with modern scientific backing: cold therapy. As leading personal trainers in Hale and Altrincham, we’re excited to explore the science behind cold therapy and its myriad benefits for our clients.

Cold therapy, also known as cryotherapy, involves exposing the body to cold temperatures to elicit physiological responses that promote healing and recovery. From ice baths to cold showers, there are various protocols that individuals can incorporate into their training regimen to reap the rewards of cold therapy.

So, what are the science-backed benefits of cold therapy? Let’s dive in:

  1. Reduced Inflammation: Cold therapy constricts blood vessels and decreases metabolic activity, leading to a reduction in inflammation and swelling. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes recovering from intense workouts or injuries.
  2. Improved Muscle Recovery: Exposure to cold temperatures has been shown to decrease muscle soreness and accelerate recovery by reducing muscle damage and inflammation. This allows athletes to bounce back faster and perform at their best.
  3. Enhanced Circulation: Cold therapy can stimulate blood flow and circulation, which may aid in the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscles and tissues, promoting overall recovery and regeneration.
  4. Increased Energy and Alertness: Cold exposure has been linked to increased levels of alertness and energy, making it an excellent way to kickstart your day or invigorate your workouts.
  5. Mental Health Benefits: Cold therapy has been shown to activate the release of endorphins, which can improve mood and alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety. It’s a natural mood booster that can leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
  6. Activation of Brown Fat: Cold exposure has been found to stimulate the activation and production of brown adipose tissue (BAT), also known as brown fat. Unlike white fat, which stores energy, brown fat burns calories to generate heat, contributing to increased calorie expenditure and potential weight loss.

Research conducted by Dr. Rhonda Patrick, a renowned expert in the fields of nutrition, metabolism, and aging, has shed light on the mechanisms underlying the benefits of cold therapy. Dr. Patrick’s studies have highlighted the role of cold exposure in activating thermogenesis, a process by which the body produces heat, and its potential implications for metabolic health and weight management.

Now, let’s explore some popular cold therapy protocols that you can incorporate into your training routine:

  1. Ice Baths: Submerging yourself in a tub filled with cold water and ice cubes for 10-15 minutes can provide powerful anti-inflammatory benefits and accelerate muscle recovery.
  2. Cold Showers: Alternating between hot and cold water during your shower can improve circulation, boost energy levels, and enhance recovery. Aim for 30-120 seconds of cold water exposure at the end of your shower.
  3. Cryotherapy Chambers: For a more intense cold therapy experience, consider visiting a cryotherapy chamber, where you’ll be exposed to extremely cold temperatures for a short duration, typically 2-3 minutes. This can provide rapid relief from inflammation and pain.

As personal trainers committed to helping our clients achieve their fitness goals, we’re excited to incorporate cold therapy into our training programs to enhance recovery, improve performance, and promote overall well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a fitness enthusiast, cold therapy can be a valuable tool in your arsenal for achieving success.

Ready to experience the benefits of cold therapy first hand? Contact us, the best personal trainers in Hale and Altrincham, to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards peak performance and recovery.

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Are You Doing Enough to Achieve Your Goals? 

In the pursuit of fitness goals, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doubt and uncertainty. As a personal trainer serving Hale and Altrincham, I’m here to dive into the psychology behind consistency and future pacing, empowering you to unleash your full potential.

Consistency is the bedrock of success in any endeavour, particularly in fitness. It’s not just about the occasional burst of motivation or hitting the gym when it’s convenient – it’s about showing up day in and day out, even when the going gets tough. Consistency breeds habits, and habits, in turn, shape our outcomes.

But why is consistency so elusive for many? It often boils down to our mindset and psychological barriers. We may doubt our abilities, fear failure, or succumb to distractions. However, by understanding the psychology behind our actions, we can overcome these obstacles and forge ahead with unwavering determination.

Future pacing is a powerful technique that involves envisioning your desired outcome in vivid detail. By mentally projecting yourself into the future and visualizing your success, you can create a roadmap to guide your actions in the present. This technique not only fuels motivation but also enhances clarity and focus, making it easier to stay on track towards your goals.

So, how can you apply these principles to your fitness journey? Firstly, set clear, actionable goals that are aligned with your values and aspirations. Whether it’s losing weight, building muscle, or improving overall health, specificity is key. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps, and commit to taking consistent action towards them every single day.

Next, cultivate a positive mindset and belief in your abilities. Banish self-doubt and replace it with self-confidence and resilience. Remind yourself of past achievements and the progress you’ve already made, no matter how small. Surround yourself with a support network of like-minded individuals who uplift and inspire you on your journey.

Lastly, incorporate future pacing into your routine. Take a few moments each day to visualize yourself achieving your goals with crystal clarity. Picture yourself looking and feeling your best, overcoming obstacles with ease, and celebrating your victories along the way. By anchoring yourself to this vision of success, you’ll stay motivated and driven, even in the face of challenges.

In conclusion, achieving your fitness goals requires more than just physical exertion – it demands a deep understanding of the psychology behind success. By embracing consistency, cultivating a positive mindset, and practicing future pacing, you can unlock your full potential and create the body and life you’ve always dreamed of.

Ready to take the next step on your fitness journey? As a dedicated personal trainer in Hale and Altrincham, I’m here to provide the guidance, support, and accountability you need to succeed. Let’s work together to turn your goals into reality. Contact us today to get started!

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Side Effects of Ozempic

Are you on the quest for a stunning physique while considering the effects of Ozempic? As a premier personal trainer in Hale, let’s delve into the nuances of Ozempic’s side effects and long-term risks, while unveiling the holistic approach to sculpting your dream body.

Ozempic is often discussed with our personal training clients in Hale, we often hear them open up to us about a friend or family member who has begun to take Ozempic and achieved rapid weight loss.  As personal trainers our clients health comes first before any body composition goal. We take holistic approaches to ensure our clients are as health as possible while they under go their body transformations.

In the world of personal training it is unfortunate that many personal trainers that are coaching individuals are also taking PEDs like growth hormone, testosterone and other anabolic steroids to achieve their physiques. This is all good and well but as professionals its our duty of care to be open with our clients and setting them realistic goals that are achievable naturally without these substances is an important discussion to have with your clients so they can manage their expectations of what is required from them.

Ozempic, a medication often prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes, boasts benefits in regulating blood sugar levels. However, it’s crucial to recognize potential side effects and risks. Nausea, vomiting, pancreatitis, and thyroid tumours are among the reported complications. Prioritize consultation with your healthcare provider to make informed decisions tailored to your health needs.

Transitioning to the cornerstone of physique transformation: a balanced lifestyle. Optimal results stem from a blend of a calorie-controlled diet, nutrient-dense foods, and consistent exercise.

Let’s begin with nutrition – the fuel for your body’s transformation. Embrace natural, nutrient-dense foods to support your fitness journey. Incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your meals. A calorie-controlled diet not only aids in weight management but also optimises energy levels and overall well-being.

Next up, resistance training steals the spotlight. Commit to structured workouts 3-4 times weekly, targeting different muscle groups each session. Whether it’s free weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises, diversity breeds progress. Strengthening muscles not only enhances aesthetics but also fortifies bones, improves posture, and boosts metabolism.

Now, let’s explore daily activity essentials. Incorporate steps into your routine – a simple yet effective strategy to boost calorie expenditure and promote cardiovascular health. Embrace zone 2 cardio sessions to elevate heart rate and torch calories. Can’t meet step goals? No problem. Jump on a bike, conquer staircases, or embark on a brisk 15-minute walk. Embrace versatility and consistency in your approach.

HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) emerges as a game-changer in your fitness arsenal. Bursting with benefits, HIIT ignites fat loss, enhances cardiovascular endurance, and maximizes calorie burn in minimal time. Incorporate bodyweight squats, lunges, and plyometric movements to elevate heart rate and sculpt lean muscle.

In conclusion, achieving your dream physique demands dedication, consistency, and a holistic approach. As a leading personal trainer in Hale, I’m committed to guiding you on your fitness journey. Embrace the power of nutrition, resistance training, and daily activity to unlock your full potential. Say goodbye to excuses and hello to transformation. Let’s embark on this journey together!

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Unlock Your Summer Body

As the days grow longer and the weather starts to improve, it’s time to shed those winter layers and prepare for the summer season so that you can be confident exposing your body. At Soma Fitness, we understand the desire to sculpt your body and feel your best for the upcoming holidays. Our holistic approach combines scientific principles with professional guidance to help you achieve your summer body goals effectively and sustainably.

Nutrition: The Cornerstone of Your Transformation

To kickstart your journey to a summer-ready physique, it’s essential to address your nutritional intake. Scientific studies consistently show that maintaining a moderate calorie deficit is crucial for weight loss [1]. At Soma Fitness, we advocate for a balanced approach, emphasising the importance of consuming adequate protein. Research suggests that protein intake between 1.8-2.0 grams per kilogram of body weight supports muscle growth and aids in appetite regulation [2]. 

  • Finding: This study looked at how our body manages energy and found that consuming fewer calories than we burn is essential for fat loss.
  • Explanation: Imagine your body as a bank account. If you withdraw more money (calories) than you deposit (consume), you’ll lose weight over time. This means being mindful of portion sizes and choosing nutrient-dense foods to support your weight loss goals. Tracking your intake is the best way to manage this.
  • Finding: Researchers found that consuming enough protein, around 1.8-2.0 grams per kilogram of body weight, helps with muscle growth and keeps you feeling full longer, making it easier to stick to your calorie goals.
  • Explanation: Protein is like the building blocks for your muscles. By including sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, and some plant-based proteins in your meals, you’re giving your body what it needs to repair and grow muscles, helping you achieve that toned look you’re after. Prioritise protein and hit your daily protein targets.

 

Resistance Training: The Key to Changing your Body Shape

While cardiovascular exercise is beneficial for overall health and longevity, resistance training holds the key to transforming your body composition. Contrary to common misconceptions, lifting weights won’t make you bulky – instead, it’s the secret to achieving a sculpted physique for both men and women [3]. Our personal trainers specialise in designing resistance training programs tailored to your goals, ensuring optimal muscle development. Our personal trainers will coach you to perform each exercise with correctly with the right intent with quality reps insuring that you get the most bank for your buck from eat set that you perform.

  • Finding: Contrary to common beliefs, lifting weights won’t make you bulky. Instead, it helps shape your body by increasing lean muscle mass, which gives you a toned appearance.
  • Explanation: Think of resistance training as sculpting clay. It helps define and shape your muscles, giving you that firm and athletic look. Plus, it boosts your metabolism, helping you burn more calories even at rest.

Optimising Sleep: The Unsung Hero of Fat Loss

In the pursuit of a summer body, don’t underestimate the power of quality sleep. Scientific evidence highlights the critical role of sleep in recovery, repair, and performance [4]. At Soma Fitness, we prioritise sleep optimisation strategies, including establishing consistent sleep routines and creating a conducive sleep environment. By prioritising restorative sleep, you’ll enhance your body’s ability to adapt to your training program and maximise results.

  • Finding: Quality sleep is crucial for your body to recover from exercise, repair tissues, and perform at its best.
  • Explanation: Sleep is like charging your phone. It rejuvenates your body and mind, so you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day. By prioritising sleep, you’re giving your body the time it needs to repair and grow stronger after workouts. It has also been shown that sleep deprivation can increase cravings which will hinder your progress.

Increasing Your Steps

As daylight extends, seize the opportunity to increase your daily step count and increase your vitamin D absorption. Research suggests that increasing physical activity, such as walking, contributes to overall calorie expenditure and vitamin D synthesis [5]. Get outdoors and boost your step count to support your summer body goals while enjoying the benefits of fresh air and sunlight.

  • Finding: Adding more movement to your day, such as walking, not only burns extra calories but also boosts your vitamin D levels.
  • Explanation: Walking is an easy and enjoyable way to stay active. It gets your blood flowing, helps clear your mind, and exposes you to sunlight, which is essential for vitamin D production. Aim for a daily stroll to support your fitness goals and soak in some sunshine. If you need small bouts consider a morning and evening walk, this will also help with your circadian rhythm and improve your sleep quality.

The journey to transform your body for summer requires a multifaceted approach supported by professional guidance. At Soma Fitness, we’re committed to helping you unlock your full potential and achieve the summer body you’ve always desired. Trust in our expertise, stay consistent, and let us guide you every step of the way.

Book a consultation with our personal training experts today, and let’s make this summer your best one yet!

References:

  1. Hall, K. D., Heymsfield, S. B., Kemnitz, J. W., Klein, S., Schoeller, D. A., & Speakman, J. R. (2012). Energy balance and its components: implications for body weight regulation. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 95(4), 989-994.
  2. Phillips, S. M., & Van Loon, L. J. (2011). Dietary protein for athletes: from requirements to optimum adaptation. Journal of sports sciences, 29(sup1), S29-S38.
  3. Schoenfeld, B. J., Peterson, M. D., Ogborn, D., Contreras, B., & Sonmez, G. T. (2015). Effects of low- vs. high-load resistance training on muscle strength and hypertrophy in well-trained men. The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, 29(10), 2954-2963.
  4. Fullagar, H. H., Skorski, S., Duffield, R., Hammes, D., Coutts, A. J., & Meyer, T. (2015). Sleep and athletic performance: the effects of sleep loss on exercise performance, and physiological and cognitive responses to exercise. Sports medicine, 45(2), 161-186.
  5. Dwyer, T., Ponsonby, A. L., Ukoumunne, O. C., Pezic, A., Venn, A., Dunstan, D., … & Jones, G. (2015). Association of change in daily step count over five years with insulin sensitivity and adiposity: population based cohort study. bmj, 351, h4188.

Getting Back on Track

As January fades into February, many of us find ourselves grappling with a familiar struggle: the decline of New Year’s resolutions. The initial burst of enthusiasm and motivation that accompanies the start of a new year often dissipates as the realities of everyday life set in. The kids are off school again, your work load picks up, the weather is dismal and dark and you would just rather stay at home with a hot chocolate rather than go out and perform some physical activity after work, or hit the snooze button in the morning and lay in a little longer.

So, why does this happen? More often than not, it boils down to a lack of structure and guidance. Many individuals embark on their fitness journey with lofty ambitions but without a clear plan of action. Without proper guidance, it’s easy to become overwhelmed or lose sight of our goals when faced with obstacles or setbacks.

As someone who understands this struggle all too well, particularly amidst the dark nights and gloomy weather of the UK, I’ve come to realise the importance of having a solid foundation to lean on. For me, that foundation consists of exercise, good nutrition, and a well-defined plan of action.

At Soma Fitness, we recognise that achieving your fitness goals requires more than just showing up to the gym. That’s why we offer comprehensive support tailored to your individual needs. Our approach goes beyond 1-1 training sessions; we provide structured nutrition plans, personalised training programs, and ongoing accountability through our dedicated app.

With our guidance, you’ll not only receive expert coaching during your gym sessions but also gain the knowledge and tools necessary to continue your progress outside of our facility. Whether you’re aiming to lose weight, build muscle, or improve your overall fitness, we’re here to provide the support and guidance you need to succeed.

Don’t let the January/February blues derail your fitness journey. Take control of your goals and invest in the structure and guidance you need to succeed. Together, we’ll navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories, one step at a time.

Ready to reclaim your motivation and crush your fitness goals? Join us at Soma Fitness, where we’re committed to helping you thrive, both inside and outside of the gym. Schedule your free consultation today and let’s embark on this journey together.