Truths about Training

As a trainer, I have encountered a lot of common misconceptions about the gym, training and nutrition amongst most people. This article is my chance to help you overcome those misunderstandings and gain more insight into the reality of the fitness world.

1) CARDIO: There is a HUGE difference between losing weight and losing fat. Do not confuse the two. Everyone has both. In what extent, differs from person to person. So, if you weigh yourself and feel like you need to lose some weight, it is fat you are looking to lose. Not just weight. As a result of this confusion, you step on the treadmill and you pace, you jog and you run like never before. In a matter of weeks, you weigh yourself and notice little to no difference. Why? Cardio alone is not sufficient to help you lose FAT. In order to optimize your weight loss, engage in resistance training as well as cardiovascular training. Ensure you don’t overload on either one.

2) WEIGHTS: The “w” word. So many people are afraid to as much as look into the free weights area. Let me tell you right now, lifting weights does not automatically transfer into bulging muscles. Trust me when I say there is much more to becoming big and bulky than lifting a 10 lb. dumbbell a few times a week. For women, this misconception is more commonly placed than men. Ladies, you do not have enough testosterone running through your veins for that to happen. So lift a weight or two. Not to become “big and bulky,” but to become more toned, defined, stronger and leaner.

3) CLASSES: A lot of gyms offer classes. It is such a wonderful way to introduce you to the gym, exercise and meet more people. Do not rush weight loss and attend 3 classes a day for the first 2 weeks straight. I can tell you right now, your body will tire out, and then you will feel justified taking a month off training. “I pushed myself so hard you know?! I need some time off.” Not okay. Weight loss does not happen over night. It is a byproduct of a healthy lifestyle.

4) HEALTHY EATING: More often than not, people think they are eating healthy meals when they are not. They will wake up to a light breakfast; just some tea and a light sandwich (on white bread), and then have a salad for lunch. Later in the day, some yogurt, and then for dinner, half a chicken from swiss chalet with some fries, coleslaw, a diet coke, and a piece of cake. Good job! If this is you, you officially failed. No one is judging you. But, know that healthy eating does not mean not eating at all. Healthy nutrition involves taking 6 small portion meals every 2-4 hours through the day. Not eating is just Not eating. Its not healthy eating. Its starvation

5) PERSONAL TRAINERS: Yes. I had to throw that in there too. Being a personal trainer myself, I have encountered a lot (a lot) of misconceptions people tend to have about my profession. We are not glamour dolls who do curls and lunges all day. There is a lot more time and effort invested in the profession than meets the eye. Take the time out, at least once, to speak to a personal trainer at your gym. Some gyms like Goodlife offer health assessments to their members with a trainer. It is a great opportunity to learn about your body, its dysfunctions and muscular imbalances. Many of which, you are not aware of. It enables a greater understanding of your body and insights into the sort of training you need.

Your body deserves much more attention than you deem. It is only if you take care of yourself, that your self will take care of you.

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