The title of this blog may be a little bold but that's how firmly I believe in this topic; and like everything else there is always an exception to the rule. However, if you're just starting your health and fitness journey consider this point of view first. It may just save you hundreds of dollars and tons of time later.***

So are you ready for the "secret" to getting results, as it pertains to nutrition & fitness? Do what it takes. I'm sure you won't be happy with that answer so allow me to elaborate.

First off there are no secrets to losing weight, getting a 6 pack, etc. There just aren't. It comes down to proper nutrition and exercise; and generally a lot of hard work. Any book, magazine cover or marketing ad that claims it's found a secret is either lying or selling what I just told you in a new shiny way.

So back to "doing what it takes." If the goal is a lifestyle change (and it should be, we're not going for temporary results here) then the way to form those habits is through actions that move you towards that daily routine. You might be saying, "well duh" after that last sentence but you wouldn't believe how many people do the opposite. For example, let's look at most of these 'cleanses' and 'detox' programs being sold. Generally you're on some form of liquid low calorie plan for a determined amount of time, 3 days, 7 days, 21 days. You might lose a few pounds here or there which is great but, at what cost? Yes I understand you're a bit closer to your quantifiable goals but you're still just as far from a lifestyle change as you began with, possibly further. Why? Because you still haven't begun practicing the daily habits that you need to be doing day in and day out to achieve your long term goals. Instead you "rented" some results thinking you were making progress.

Not to mention the sad truth is that at the end of these deprivation type programs you're generally left prone to gaining any results you had back plus some. These programs of course don't let you in on this fact but we see and hear about it time and time again from thousands of people. 

Now I'm a big believer in programs, but the right ones. I think they help give people clarity and bust through any confusion people have. It's a quick way to become more educated rather then spending hours on the internet doing research which often leads you to more questions then when you started. 

That being said, you have to find the right program. Does your program promote healthy daily choices you can do indefinitely? Does your program promote daily exercise, incorporate real foods, grocery lists, etc? That's what we wan to learn. Sure your detox might have helped you lost 5 pounds but if the goal is 50, that detox won't get you the full way there; and if by some long shot it does, you still have a lot to learn once it's over. Hence why many people "rebound" after these things because they haven't actually learned anything or grown. 

It's not rocket science but just a little common sense coupled with a lot of willpower to change. As always live healthy and be happy!

- Jimmie

Any questions or want one on one help? Use the email box on the right or contact me at Jimmie.Brenton@gmail.com

*** I want to be clear here that I'm not saying detoxes and cleanses don't have their place. There are benefits and many positive effects gained from doing them. However, far too many people I find are  using these plans as a general weight loss routine which is not what they're meant for.

If you want my recommendations for programs that promote these changes here they are:

21 Day Fix: Great for beginners or advanced alike this promotes portion control, healthy choices and 30 min daily workouts. If you can master the ideas set forth in this program you're set for life. MORE INFO.

Portion Fix: Similar to the above system except this is for people who have already figured out the exercise thing and are just looking to improve their nutrition. MORE INFO