Erik's Weekly Fitness Tips : Holiday Eating 101

apple pie
 

If you haven't already ripped open that bag of trick-or-treat candy, congratulations, you're doing better than most. We all know how hard it is to resist the never-ending flow of holiday goodies. Every time you turn around, there's another plate of something staring you in the face.  Whether you are a mashed potatoes junkie or an apple pie fiend, this list of holiday eating tips will help you resist the temptation.  

1. Be Realistic

Now is not the time to lose weight, just aim to maintain the weight you already have.

2. Increase Exercise

Add an extra day of exercise during the week. This will help offset the increase in caloric intake. 

3. Don't Stuff Yourself

Eat until you are satisfied, not until you are uncomfortably engorged. 

4. Skip the Appetizers

Just say no! Oftentimes, appetizers pack more calories than the main course.

5. Eat Before the Party

If you don't eat a sensible meal beforehand, you're more likely to eat everything in site as soon as you arrive. 

6. Limit Liquid Calories 

Mixed drinks such as margaritas or punches contain high amounts of sugar. Be careful of how many you throw back. 

7. Use a Smaller Plate

If you are limited on space, you'll have to be more strategic about what you put on that plate. 

8. One Trip Only

The more trips you make to the buffet, the more you're going to consume. Limit yourself to one trip only. 

*image by David Gallagher, Flickr


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Erik's Weekly Fitness Tips : 4 Key Training Points

slim fit
 

If a trainer isn't practicing what he's preaching, it's time to get a new trainer! Here are four training tips that I practice in my own life:

1. Be Consistent

Want results? Want to reach your goals? Then you need to consistently get your butt into the gym. There are no short cuts. Hard work and dedication for a long period of time will get you results. 

2. Leg Day

Your legs are your motor. If you want to be a Mercedes, squats and deadlifts need to be your main focus. If you're happy being a Hyundai, I suggest moving your legs as little as possible.

3. Lift Heavy

Don’t be afraid of lifting heavy.  Beside making you stronger, heavy weights increase bone density and make your ligament and tendons stronger. You will reap the benefits as you age.  

4. Have Fun

Keep it fun, anything in life is always easier when it’s fun! Create a playlist, workout with a friend,  or switch it up with an outside workout. 

*image by Md saad andalib, Flickr


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Erik's Weekly Fitness Tip: Offseason Strength Training

fall
 

Fall is here. The kids are picking out pumpkins, the evenings are getting more brisk and the racing season is coming to an end.  Whether you are a runner, triathlete, rower, or mountain biker, fall is a great time for endurance athletes to get back in the gym and strength train.

The racing season not only takes a physical toll on your body but it takes an emotional toll as well. I have found that offseason strength training can help athletes not only get stronger but also improve their motivation for the sport. 

What Strength Training Exercises Should I Do? 

I suggest working the big lifts two days a week. Squats, deadlifts, and presses need to be at the top of your list.  Do these exercise in a progressive manner with the goal of lifting a little more than you did the week before. Regardless of what your sport of choice is, strength training will surely improve your performance.  

*images by Arby Reed, Flickr and Stephanie Wallace, Flickr


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