There can be a variety of reasons why your body isn’t changing the way you want it to. No one likes putting in effort for no reward so let’s look at a few suggestions which may help point you in the right direction.

Hard work/no results = NO FUN!

• If you have been calorie restricting too much then this can lead to a slower metabolic rate, loss of energy, muscle wastage and weight gain. Cutting corners by skipping meals or not consuming enough calories for your activity level and weight actually makes things harder for you! Regular balanced meals that fuel your metabolism through out the day is the only way to go.
• Have your portion sizes crept up on you? Regularly pull yourself into check and remember the palm rule, that’s the easiest!
• Maybe the balance of fats, carbohydrates and proteins in your meals has gone a bit hay-wire? Avoid focusing on fat content only. Remember to eat adequate amounts of protein for you, and plenty of ‘good’ carbohydrates. If you’re confused ask your trainer for some handouts that might help.

• Don’t make the mistake of cutting out refined carbohydrates and not replacing them with double the amount of fibrous vegetables/salads. If we don’t fill up on enough of the “good stuff” then our blood sugar can drop, we feel hungry, and suddenly we can find ourselves craving all of the things we shouldn’t be.
• Hormones can be a major hurdle. Depending on their age, sex, activity level and the quality of the food they eat, this can affect people in a variety of ways. If your lifestyle habits, which include stress levels, nutrition, sleep, and exercise, are at their peak, then you’ll be surprised at how you can positively influence your health.
• Unconscious snacking and picking at foods can lead to over eating, usually of all the wrong foods. Plan and prepare your meals as much is possible. Sometimes keeping a food diary for a short time helps. Otherwise ask your trainer for a menu plan to follow.
• Maybe your alcohol and coffee consumption has crept up, therefore your calorie intake?
• Take a closer look at your exercise routine. Variety in type, duration and intensity is very important. Make sure you’re doing enough resistance training to build muscle and enough cardiovascular exercise to balance things out. Remember, if the body isn’t challenged then it is never being forced to change!

© Kylie Pogson 2006

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