Getting to that that perfect body size can be an intimidating concept for most. With the proliferation of advertisements filled with lofty promises for that "perfect body, it is easy to get discouraged before you even start on your journey to better health. Former track and field athlete and owner of Aries Sports Performance Orlando Griffith helps us debunk some myths about exercising and encourages individuals to simply get on with it!
KNOW YOUR NEEDS AND YOUR LIMITS
"People find it difficult to lose weight for a number of reasons. It can range from medical reasons like thyroid problems, psychological issues relating to depression and environmental issues" said Griffith. "But usually it's about poor education on health as it relates to weight control" he added. According to the former athlete, it is wise to engage in fitness programmes that take your individuality and needs into account, rather than another "run of the mill" fitness regime. Therefore, generic exercises found at the back of magazines and DVD programmes that may not account for the fact that you are only a beginner can be misleading.
MAKE A HEALTHIER CHOICE
For persons who would like to fast-track their weight loss, Griffith advises against the use of fat burners. "Fat burners can be dangerous. Don't use it! Period! They can mess with your normal heart rhythm and put you in a world of hurt in the long run. Avoid them!" he warns. Another big "no no" is to stop eating when beginning a program or crash dieting which can delay progress even further.
BE SMART, WORK HARD
Griffith says that reaping the rewards of your efforts are all relative. "If you work, train hard and become smart while eating healthy foods, you're going to see results sooner than if you don't. It's that simple" he said. In other words ladies, there are no short cuts. And for those diligent individuals who have achieved their desired results, Griffith adds a new perspective of what it takes to maintain. "If you've been working to get down to a specific weight and you've had to do a lot of running and weight training along with dieting, and you've enjoyed the running component, then start racing to improve your running times. Then you've shifted your focus from weight to improving time thus maintaining your desired weight in the long term" he says.
FEED THE MACHINE
So what part does nutrition play in maintaining a healthy lifestyle? "Proper nutrition makes as much of a difference in weight loss and performance just as exercise and training is concerned." said Griffith. "I would say its 50:50. So don't neglect the quality of fuel you're putting in your "machine". Feed the "machine" well and you'll perform better. It's simple" he continued. And for further clarity, Griffith helps demystify a long standing apologue. "There is no such thing as "Big boned". The proper name for this term is called *"Endomorph*" where these people carry more fat cells in the limbs than usual. They have to work harder to manage their weight than the *ectomorph *and *mesomorph *population" stated Griffith. Although Griffith advises professional consultation before embarking on any type of exercise regime, he shares a list of basic exercises for the beginner who will like to start an exercise program.
For further consultation you can contact Orlando at ariessportsperformance@gmail.com
BASIC WORK OUT ROUTINE
Approximately 3 Reps of 15-20
�2 Squats to a chair (sit and stand)
�2 Lunges (giant steps and dip)
�2 Step ups
�2 Push Ups
�2 Plank exercises for core (30 seconds to a minute)