Let me start by saying I’m striving for progress not perfection. I’m experienced (former certified trainer and group fitness instructor, fitness competitor) and I have a lot of knowledgeable resources (that we all can have). And yes, I will include links (affiliate links) to some of the products I use and LOVE. If you think you want to try them, consider using these links. Please and thank you!
How did I get the focus and decided on the changes?
In March, I had the chance to really pay attention to what I was putting in my body and I realized really quickly that it wasn’t great. I started making changes. Small changes which have led to bigger changes which have led to real material improvements that I can see and feel. Couple that with the changes I’ve made in my fitness routine and I am feeling better and stronger than I have in a long time.
So what changes did I make?
- Tracked my food: I started using an app to track my food. I tried a few and ended up liking the “Lose It App“. I’ve loved it so much I went ahead and splurged on the yearly cost of $39.99. It has been pretty interesting to see the trends. Because I feel like you can’t make changes till you know what you’re making changes too.
2. Increased my protein intake: One thing I noticed early on is that I wasn’t getting much protein, especially when you consider the workouts and lifestyle. I needed MUCH more.
As a guide, here’s what the National Association of Sports Medicine recommends:
If you want to lose weight, aim for a daily protein intake between 1.6 and 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram (.73 and 1 grams per pound). Athletes and heavy exercisers should consume 2.2-3.4 grams of protein per kilogram (1-1.5 grams per pound) if aiming for weight loss.
NASM.Org
So I reluctantly started researching protein supplements again. I say reluctantly because I have had a history with shitty tasting chalk flavored proteins and the thought of choking more down isn’t appealing but I have found some I really like and crazy thing is it’s headquartered right here in St. Louis!
1st Phorm is a company that specializes in helping people, they just happen to do it by developing quality supplements that solve so many of the nutrition gaps we have. They have everything from multi-vitamins to to super greens to protein and even smoothie blends for kids. The best part of what they do is found on their site. The organize their products by the goal you’re trying to achieve!
I could go on and on with other “things” you could do but I’ll tell you, I’ve been reading “Atomic Habits” and learning to appreciate how little tweaks can lead to big changes when you add them all together. So start small, learn as you go and see progress!
What changes have you made that you’ve found success in?
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