Cutting Through The Noise

If you’re one of those people who searches the internet for fitness or nutrition advice, then your head is probably spinning right about now.

There’s no shortage of fitness "gurus" claiming to have the answer or telling you the only way is their way. Endless arguments over workout type, how much weight you should be lifting, how often you should work out, what to eat, what not to eat — often people who have really impressive physiques are in direct opposition with one another, so who are we to believe or follow?

To begin with I’d go with those who are not posturing. The loud animated lecturers are the most annoying—shouting and wildly waving your arms doesn’t make anyone seem more credible, just more desperate. If some doofus is inferring you’re not a man or you’re some loser because you aren’t doing things his way, i.e., you’re not lifting heavy enough or not doing squats or bench pressing or whatever, that should be your cue to move on to someone else.

As a personal trainer I am always baffled by people who had achieved success in their career or business who failed to apply those very same principals to their fitness, health and well-being— persistence being the main one. The same people who willingly put in overtime at the office scoff at doing the same with regard to their fitness and nutrition, refusing to research on Google or YouTube, even when I sent them direct links to useful information.

Thinking all you have to do is show up might get you somewhere, but not as far as your full potential indicates if you also do your research and homework.