#YourFitness: Is your weight-loss plan working?
The scales might not budge but photos are starting to look better, clothes are starting to fit in a more flattering fashion. The chances are you are building muscle.
In this article I hope to offer insights on what I would look out for if I was someone trying to lose weight and ensure I am doing what I can to ensure I continue to make progress.
Are you hungry? This is something a lot can struggle with. However, this is often a positive sign. If you are hungry - it’s working. Finding the sweet spot where hunger is managed and not overtaking your day can be the tricky part. That’s why I believe starting with food slightly higher and tapering food down by 100-200 calories per week depending on progress can be more sustainable in the long term.
Starting to feel your feet drag a small bit? What were once simple tasks now may require a bit more effort on your end. Fear not, however, if you are consuming less calories than you are burning - this is part and parcel with dieting. Trust the process and focus on eating whole foods that are nutritious and help you to meet your daily requirements from a macro and micro nutrient standpoint.
Think lean meat sources, and plenty of colours when it comes to fruit and veg across the day. Ensure you are also hydrating and having salt on each meal - my personal preference is a few twists of pink Himalayan salt.
This is something we may think as obvious but must appreciate that one may improve without the other at times. This can tell us a lot.
The scales might not budge but photos are starting to look better, clothes are starting to fit in a more flattering fashion. The chances are you are building muscle while losing body fat and achieving that leaner and toned look you set out to achieve!
These things may seem simple. Time and time again, however, you forget to keep tabs on these variables.
You start to make changes randomly and abruptly that in most scenarios weren’t needed. You’ve turned what was a sustainable diet into an all or nothing approach. You burn out.
The feedback loop repeats. Yes, it takes time. Yes, it can be difficult at times. It is not, however, complicated.
If you are organised - or have a coach (recommended) - this process can really become as simple as it is above. We track your data. We make changes only when necessary. Changes that make sense. Changes that we perceive will make a difference to you and that will be sustainable within your context.
If you are on the fence about online coaching and want to know a little bit more about the process - just email me the word “ready” and I will be in touch!
I am also delighted to announce that I am now offering an in-person personal training service at Kingfisher Fitness Club, Waterford.
Please get in touch through the contact information below or call into reception to check availability and avoid disappointment as spaces are limited.
Please visit my new website www.coachedbycashel.com for more information.
Lastly, I would also like to clarify that I am not a registered dietician. All advice disclosed here is simply advisory based on my qualifications as a fitness professional and personal experience and knowledge gained working with individuals and helping them reach their goals.
The advice given is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem - nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health.
I hope someone out there found some of this information useful here, just some food for thought.
For any questions in relation to this topic or training, nutrition, etc. or for coaching inquiries simply message me on my business page on Instagram @coachedbycashel_ or by email - contact@coachedbycashel.com
