Opening Times:

6.00 AM - 21.00 PM

Call Us:

077699 02529

The Benefits and Importance of Exercise: Insights from Dr. Peter Attia’s “Outlive”

At our personal training business in Hale, Altrincham, we are passionate about helping our clients achieve their health and fitness goals. One of the foundational elements of a healthy lifestyle is regular exercise. Drawing on insights from Dr. Peter Attia’s book, “Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity,” we delve into the profound benefits of exercise and why it is a critical component of a long, healthy life.

The Science of Longevity

Dr. Peter Attia, a renowned physician focusing on the applied science of longevity, emphasizes that exercise is one of the most potent tools we have to extend both lifespan and healthspan. Healthspan refers to the period of life spent in good health, free from chronic diseases and debilitating conditions. According to Dr. Attia, regular physical activity is not just about adding years to your life but also adding life to your years.

Key Benefits of Exercise

  1. Cardiovascular Health

    Regular exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation. Dr. Attia highlights that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, but engaging in consistent physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events. Exercise helps lower blood pressure, reduce bad cholesterol levels, and increase good cholesterol levels, all of which contribute to a healthier heart.

  2. Metabolic Health

    Exercise plays a crucial role in managing weight and preventing metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Dr. Attia points out that physical activity increases insulin sensitivity, which helps regulate blood sugar levels more effectively. This is particularly important in a world where sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary choices are leading to a rise in metabolic disorders.

  3. Musculoskeletal Health

    Maintaining strong muscles and bones is essential for overall health and mobility, especially as we age. Resistance training, in particular, is beneficial for building and preserving muscle mass, enhancing bone density, and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. Dr. Attia emphasizes that a robust musculoskeletal system not only improves physical performance but also reduces the risk of falls and fractures in older adults.

  4. Mental Health

    The benefits of exercise extend beyond the physical body to the mind. Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function. Dr. Attia discusses how exercise promotes the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters that positively affect mental health. It also improves sleep quality, which is crucial for mental well-being.

  5. Longevity

    One of the most compelling arguments for regular exercise is its impact on longevity. Dr. Attia’s research indicates that individuals who engage in regular physical activity tend to live longer, healthier lives. Exercise helps mitigate the effects of aging at the cellular level, reducing inflammation, and promoting cellular repair mechanisms.

Implementing Exercise into Your Life

Understanding the benefits of exercise is one thing, but implementing it into your daily routine is another. Here are some practical tips inspired by Dr. Attia’s recommendations:

  1. Find Activities You Enjoy

    The best exercise is the one you enjoy and can sustain over the long term. Whether it’s walking, cycling, swimming, or resistance training, choose activities that you find fun and engaging.

  2. Consistency is Key

    Regular, consistent exercise is more beneficial than sporadic intense workouts. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise per week, as recommended by health guidelines.

  3. Mix It Up

    Incorporate a variety of exercise types into your routine, including aerobic exercises, strength training, flexibility exercises, and balance training. This comprehensive approach ensures that you are addressing all aspects of fitness and health.

  4. Set Realistic Goals

    Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. This helps build confidence and reduces the risk of injury.

  5. Seek Professional Guidance

    Working with a personal trainer can provide the structure, motivation, and expertise needed to develop an effective and safe exercise program. Our trainers in Hale, Altrincham, are here to support you every step of the way.

 

 

Hale personal training – personal trainer Altrincham – personal trainer near me – personal training Bowdon.

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.

 

 

Hale personal training – personal trainer altrincham – personal trainer near me – personal training bowdon.

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.

 

Hale personal training, Altrincham Personal Training, Personal Trainer, Personal Trainer near me.

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.

Hale personal trainer, Altrincham Personal Training,  Hale personal training, personal training in Hale, personal training in Altrincham, personal trainer, personal training near me, Best PTs in Hale.

Reflecting on 18 Years of Personal Training

Reflecting on 18 Years of  Personal Training Service: Celebrating Milestones and Embracing the Future at Soma Fitness

As we mark the milestone of 18 years in service, the Soma Fitness team in Hale and Altrincham takes a moment to reflect on our journey, the lessons learned, and the profound impact we’ve had on our clients’ lives. For nearly two decades, we’ve been on a transformative journey, dedicated to helping individuals achieve their fitness goals and developing lasting relationships within our community.

 

Since our inception, our mission has remained strong: to empower individuals to unlock their full potential, both physically and mentally, through our personal training and support. Over the years, we’ve witnessed countless success stories, celebrated victories big and small, and forged great relationships with our clients that extend far beyond the gym walls.

 

What have we learned from 18 years of service? Firstly, we’ve learned the power of consistency and commitment. True transformation takes time, effort, and dedication. By staying committed to our clients’ journeys and providing consistent guidance and encouragement, we’ve witnessed remarkable progress and lasting results.

 

Additionally, we’ve learned the importance of adaptability and innovation. The fitness landscape is ever-evolving, with new trends, techniques, and findings emerging constantly. By staying on top of the latest developments and incorporating innovative approaches into our training programs, we’ve been able to continually elevate the quality of service we provide to our clients.

 

Moreover, we’ve learned the significance of community and connection. Fitness is not just about physical strength – it’s about fostering a supportive community where individuals feel encouraged to prioritise their health and fitness and also inspired to reach their goals. Through the years, we’ve cultivated a vibrant community the we feel blessed to be a part of.

 

As we look ahead to the future, we’re filled with gratitude for the opportunity to make a positive impact and help our clients lead healthier, happier lives. We’re excited to continue growing, evolving, and adapting to meet the ever-changing needs of our community. The journey so far has been nothing short of amazing, and we’re thrilled to see what the future holds.

 

To our dedicated team of coaches, thank you for your passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence. It’s your tireless efforts and support that have fuelled our success and allowed us to make a difference in the lives of so many.

 

And to our incredible clients, thank you for entrusting us with your fitness journey. It’s been an honor and privilege to be a part of your transformation, and we look forward to many more years of success, growth, and shared achievements.

 

Cheers to 18 years of service, and here’s to the exciting journey that lies ahead at Soma Fitness in Hale and Altrincham!

Hale personal trainer, Hale personal training, personal training in Hale, personal training in Altrincham, personal trainer, personal training near me, Best PTs in Hale.

Optimal Digestive Function for Body Composition Goals

In the world of personal training our clients are often seeking the solutions for optimal body composition, we often place our main focus on exercise programming and dietary choices. However, there’s a crucial yet often overlooked factor that plays a significant role in our ability to achieve our goals: digestive function. As a leading personal trainer in Hale and Altrincham, I have often seen clients struggle not only with body composition due to compromised gut health but also inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, skin conditions and much more. Let’s explore the intricate link between gut health and body composition, drawing insights from research and experts in the field today.

 

Digestive function encompasses a complex interplay of processes that break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste from the body. When our digestive system operates efficiently, it not only supports overall health but also influences our body’s ability to achieve and maintain a desirable physique.

 

One notable resource shedding light on this topic is Andrew Huberman’s research. Huberman, a renowned neuroscientist, explores the connection between the gut and brain, highlighting how gut health impacts various aspects of our well-being, including appetite regulation and mood.

Studies have shown that disruptions in gut microbiome balance can lead to alterations in appetite control, potentially contributing to weight gain or difficulty in achieving body composition goals. Additionally, imbalances in gut bacteria have been linked to inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic disorders, all of which can hinder progress in fitness endeavours.

 

Prioritising nutrient-dense, foods and incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables, we can support a diverse and thriving gut microbiome. Try to consume 1-2 servings of probiotic rich foods per day and specifically during meal times for optimal digestion.

 

Furthermore, mindful eating practices can enhance digestion and promote satiety, leading to better control over food intake and improved body composition. Paying attention to hunger and fullness cues, chewing food thoroughly, and avoiding distractions during meals are simple yet powerful strategies to optimise digestion and support your fitness goals. The biggest one in today’s work is screen time during meal times, put your phone on flight mode and leave it far away from the dinner table.

 

As a personal trainer dedicated to helping clients achieve their desired body composition, I emphasise the importance of addressing digestive health as an integral part of our holistic approach. By nurturing a healthy gut environment through mindful eating, nutrient-dense foods, and expert guidance, we can unlock the body’s full potential and achieve lasting results.

 

In conclusion, optimal digestive function is a cornerstone of success in body composition goals. By understanding the profound impact of gut health on appetite regulation, metabolism, and overall well-being, we can tailor our approach to fitness and nutrition for maximum effectiveness. As you embark on your journey toward a healthier, fitter you, remember to prioritise digestive health, alongside your physical training regimen. Reduce the consumption of high inflammatory foods such as refined wheat, sugar and alcohol.

 

Ready to optimise your fitness journey with personalised guidance and support?

 

Contact us, your trusted personal trainers in Hale and Altrincham, to start your transformation today!

 

Hale personal trainer, Hale personal training, personal training in Hale, personal training in Altrincham, personal trainer, personal training near me, Best PTs in Hale.

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!

Personal training in Hale, personal training in Altrincham, personal trainer, personal training near me.

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!

Personal training in Hale, personal training in Altrincham, personal trainer, personal training near me.

 

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.