As we head into the New Year and the constant chatter about resolutions and “getting in shape” is in the air let’s revisit “Why do you exercise?”
Because you think you should?
Because you feel guilty?
Because you want to lose weight?
OK, let’s stop right there……on the lose weight piece. (Loud scream heard in background)
Every year millions of Americans will purchase a gym membership and a good majority will never utilize the benefits. The weight loss industry is at an all-time high and yet we struggle as a nation with our bodies: from multiple angles, mentally, physically and nutritionally.
Here’s two statements I think wrap up my decades of experience in the health and fitness industry. And if you’re pushed for time, thanks for reading this far!
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You can’t outrun a poor diet!
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Exercise to exercise not to lose weight!
On point #1
For decades the food and soda industries have helped promote the notion that you can eat all the crap you want and if you just exercise away the “calories” all is well. How’s that working for us as a nation? To put it mildly, not so great.
I’ve spoken numerous times on the outdated energy theory and highly recommend the work of Gary Taubes, Good Calories, Bad Calories and Why We Get Fat for the real nitty gritty on calories. Also as Dr. Mark Hyman says:
“The same number of calories from different types of food can have very different biological effects.”
“Yes, that well-worn notion—that as long as you burn more calories than you consume, you will lose weight—is simply dead wrong.”
In simple terms eating foods that raise your blood sugar like carbohydrates and sugar puts your body in store fat mode. No amount of exercise is going to allow your body to just magically dispose of all those fake food-like substances. And the notion that your treadmill calorie counter or Fitbit is capable of analyzing how your body is processing or “burning” said foods is again just a cruel marketing ploy.
So what can you do instead?
Think of food for performance, not for punishment or reward. Find real food that will plenish your body for maximum output. Be smart, plan ahead, shop and cook as many of your meals as possible. If you’re traveling pack a bag, so you’re not at the mercy of junk or fast food options.
On point #2
When exercise is only tied to the fact you want to lose weight you’re caught in a trap. If you can release yourself from this burden and find a new way to look at exercise, possibilities are endless. Find a reason that works for you!
Maybe it’s for your kids or grandkids or a significant other. Perhaps because you like the mental clarity it gives you or its’ just a break away from your daily grind. Whatever purpose lights your fire, that’s the one for you. An awesome way to start 2019.
Write it down and commit to it! Please…….. remember health is not about a number on a scale but about a body that can perform to its’ best potential on a regular basis.
For last year’s words belong to last year’s language
And next year’s words await another voice.
T.S. Eliot
To order my book, Finding Lifestyle Sanity: A Survival Guide go to the online store here.
