Tuesday, December 30, 2014

The "before and after" myth

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As the new year approaches I'm sure thousands of people are making their resolution to embark on a healthier lifestyle and get themselves back in shape. So before you begin looking for that quick fix I suggest you consider a few things. 

Many nutritional supplement companies and fitness professionals know that in this highly competitive world few people have the patience and discipline to sustain months of hard work in the gym and eat a well balanced diet everyday, so of course they take advantage of that. The way they do it is by marketing their tablets, capsules, powders, drinks, diet plans and short term workouts as the fast lane to fitness. One of the more popular ways of selling a product or service in the fitness industry is by attaching the infamous "before and after" pictures of  supposedly satisfied clients.

I don't like to be the one to burst your bubble, but honestly they don't work! In fitness, one lesson worth learning is that if it sounds too good to be true, then that's exactly what it is. Some supplements, in conjunction with a rigorous exercise regime can help shed a few pounds, and yes a quick workout is better than no workout at all, but I assure you nothing can replace long hours of proper exercise and a good daily nutrition. 

This is not an assumption, it's pure science... Calories are only burnt through exercise, muscle tone and growth is only stimulated by applying resistance for several repetitions. Although it may sound logical that a proportionate physique, male or female can only be achieved by making sure every muscle group is targeted individually from a variety of angles and exercised adequately, it's incredible how many of these highly marketed workouts are lacking in detail.  


Just take a moment to understand these three points before you go spending that hard earned cash at your local health store, online or wherever.

1. The same way you didn't accumulate bodyfat overnight it's just not going to disappear in a few days. The body has its own way of managing energy stores and you need to respect that.


2. Health and fitness is not a phase, it's a lifestyle. So unless you're willing to make some changes in your everyday life you will not see substantial changes in your body.   


3. The basic principles have always worked for everyone, and always will. So learn the basics and be consistent, that is the key.