When it comes to losing weight we’re often heard that we need to get our metabolism firing. But what does this mean? Without getting too technical, your metabolism can be described as the amount of energy your body uses each day. Your body is continually burning substrates for energy, much like a fire continually burns fuels.
This begins by eating breakfast. You need to get your metabolism kick-started. Would your car leave the garage each morning if there was no fuel in its tank?? If you can’t face food early in the morning, start with something light – any food will be better than none. As you get used to it, increase your portion size so that you’re consuming a regular, nutritious breakfast.
Your meals should be split into 5-6 smaller, more regular meals each and every day. This doesn’t mean you will be consuming more food, it means you will be spreading it evenly over the day instead of having the ‘traditional’ three large meals. Therefore morning and afternoon tea is a must. If you don’t get a break at work, take something in that you can easily consume at your desk.
Let’s take a look at some of the factors which increase our metabolic rate:
- Exercising – just one of the MANY reasons regular exercise is non-negotiable!
- Lift weights – as we get older we lose muscle mass, so train to maintain and gain it.
- Smaller more regular meals
- Be male (sorry girls!)
- Eat spicy foods
- Fall pregnant (sorry men!)
Some of the factors which decrease our metabolic rate:
- Crash diets or not eating
- Skipping meals – especially breakfast
- Not exercising
So in a nutshell, regular exercise including cardio and strength training, and smaller, regular meals starting at breakfast is the best way to get your metabolism fired up. Don’t waste your money on pills and potions that promise to do the same – get the basics right and there’s no need!
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Fitness Tips from Red E Personal Training – your Mackay Personal Trainers.
