As a trainer, I am amazed (not in a good way) but the fact that some people still do not understand some basic principles about exercise and I get faced with the same stupid questions (there are stupid questions even if presenters try to reassure people that they can ask anything and not look uninformed). With all the health magazines, wellness seminars and exercise education in the world today, women still think that they will get big muscles from lifting small dumbbells and that exercise earns them the right to eat anything they crave. These are the common questions that I have to answer on a daily basis without being allowed to roll my eyes or utter a sarcastic remark.
How long will it take to lose weight/tone/improve my fitness?
The answer depends on the person because some people are lucky enough to be able to see results in a matter of days, while other people struggle for years to see a small change. Some people also have the strict mindset required to stick to a structured, healthy exercise and eating program. I wish I could have a general answer and say that it will take one month, but it is unrealistic to predict something that I, as a trainer, cannot control. Personally, I get slightly skeptic when people see results quickly as they struggle to maintain the goal if they do not make lifestyle changes.
Will I look like a body builder if I do weights?
Men have high testosterone levels that help them to develop muscle. Women have trace amounts of this muscle building hormone and will not become bulky unless they lift very heavy weights, perform fewer repetitions or take male hormones to bulk up. Weight training has the benefits of improving bone density, increasing metabolism and strengthening postural muscles that will have lifelong effects. Big biceps can be left for the guys while we benefit from resistance training. Start worrying about building big muscles after developing chest hair and a deep voice.
Will everybody else be looking at me?
My sarcastic side wants to tell you not to flatter yourself because people who exercise are usually self absorbed and focusing on their own bodies. The reality is that people will look around, but they mainly focus on their own muscles and movement without looking at others unless there is a treadmill fall.
What gear must I wear?
Footwear is the most important. Running requires running shoes, regardless of the distance. Visit a professional sports store to have running style analysed and purchase the proper shoes. While the most expensive shoes are not always necessary, it is important to buy shoes with the proper cushioning and support. Jeans, black bags, padded bras, sandals and casual pants are out and a sports bra is important. If you do not want everybody else looking at you, wear something neutral that covers the wiggle bits. Wearing dark coloured clothing usually hides sweat marks that will stain light clothing.
What supplements must I take?
A healthy eating plan should negate the use of supplements. The only pills that I would recommend for a healthy person is a multivitamin that offers the additional vitamins that we do not get from food. Calcium and magnesium are important for women to manage bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
Personal trainers will have basic nutritional knowledge but our speciality is exercise and we know how to make you sweat. Like any job, we are faced with the same questions daily and we smile and answer them in the best possible way. When your body responds to exercise and you are bitten by the exercise bug, you will want to investigate advanced training methods, healthy eating and challenges. As a trainer, I must remember that everybody begins at the start line to the race to get our bodies in shape.
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