Recently, while attending a Zumba Class, I overheard a group of ladies talking about the challenges they faced trying to lose weight. One lady mentioned that she does Zumba 5 days a week but still could not see any results. Another confessed that she felt her diet may not be the best, especially because she sometimes consumes a large meal after a late evening Zumba class. Their stories are not uncommon. Millions of people struggle with their weight. In fact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States reported in June 2015 that more than one-third 34.9% (78.6 million) of U.S. adults are obese. The website www.businessInsider.com also recently reported that Americans were among the top ten fattest countries in the world. Others were China, India, Russia, Brazil, Mexico, Egypt, Germany, Pakistan and Indonesia. — leaving many to wonder what these countries have in common. Is there a correlation between “development” and a steady increase in weight gain in these countries in recent decades?
There are many factors that can contribute to weight gain, from increased stress, medical reasons, or perhaps a more sedentary lifestyle. Another reason that people may not typically think of is NOT having a more diversified fitness portfolio, especially since our bodies tend to adapt to exercises. For example, the first time you attempt to run a half mile will probably be very challenging. However, by the 20th time, it gets much easier. Hence, as you become used to a particular type of exercise, it becomes easier, less challenging, and less effective. This is why it’s important to mix things up.
Another thing to keep in mind is “Calories In, Calories Out”. As for the second lady that I reference earlier, if what she does is continue to consume more calories at meal time than she is burning, and at the same time, she does not incorporate weight training into her fitness program, then she will continue to be far away from her weight-loss goals.
Bottom line: Diversify your fitness portfolio by changing things up! Options include: trying different forms of cardio, use split routines when working out (back and biceps on one day, chest and shoulder on another, and legs on a different day). You can also simply make a change to your weight and/or repetition. Most important, manage your calories intake as best as you can.
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Contributor Renna Reddick is a certified nutrition specialist, personal trainer and group fitness instructor. Certifications include: National Association of Sports Medicine (NASM), National Federation of Personal Trainers (NFPT) and Aerobics, Fitness Association of America (AFAA) Group Fitness Instruction, and NFPT Nutrition Specialist
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