| You train with weights. You do cardiovascular exercise. Heck, you even stopped smoking. So what's keeping you from that definition that professional bodybuilders achieve? One word: Diet.
It doesn't matter how much you define your muscles if they are covered under a layer of fat. Doing cardiovascular exercises like running will help you from putting on more weight, but if you want to lose the love handles you already have, it's important to maintain a healthy eating schedule and menu as well. The thought of dieting may make you cringe, but it's not as hard as you may think, and before long you'll be eating healthier without even being tempted by fatty fried foods or sugary desserts.
I know you're probably going to hate me for saying this, but you have to start your diet by counting calories. Determine how many calories you eat in a normal day, and then cut this down by 100. If you aren't getting the results you want, cut back even farther. If you're doing weight training, don't go by what the scale says-use some common sense and know your own body. You'll be able to feel it if you are losing fat, and you'll be able to see the results in the mirror.
Beyond ingesting fewer calories, you should also learn the difference between good and bad carbs and good and bad fats. Our bodies need carbs and fats to survive, but if you stick to foods that give you energy-such as pasta-and stay away from saturated fats and trans fatty acids-like in fried foods and potato chips, you'll be able to stay healthy and still lose weight. Eat plenty of green vegetables and consider eating soy products. Give them a chance before you wrinkle your nose, because often times you won't be able to tell the difference, and soy products like hot dogs and burgers have less bad fats and more proteins than the real thing. As always, drink a lot of water when you workout and in your daily life. Drink a glass with every meal, and remember that when you are bodybuilding, it is more beneficial to eat 6 small meals each day than 3 large meals. This will help boost your energy level. Use some common sense with your diet, and allow yourself one cheat day each week so you don't get frustrated. You'll be able to see your muscles in no time. |
