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488: Brad Williams - Should You Count Your Calories To Get To Your Goal Weight
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Should You Count Your Calories To Get To Your Goal Weight
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In this episode of Over 40 Fitness Hacks, I delve into the perennial debate on whether or not counting calories should be a primary focus in your fitness journey. As I address this common query, I emphasize that while calorie counting can be beneficial, it is not necessarily the initial step one should take, especially for those over 40 who are beginning their fitness transformation.
The core of my argument is that establishing foundational healthy habits is paramount. This involves focusing on six key aspects of fitness: diet, exercise (or movement), inflammation, stress management (both physical and mental), sleep, and supplementation. Addressing these areas comprehensively will yield significant benefits and set a robust groundwork for your fitness goals.
Calorie counting, often rooted in traditional bodybuilding approaches, operates on the principle of caloric deficit and expenditure. While mathematically sound and effective for achieving very low body fat percentages, it may not be essential for everyone, especially those comfortable with a higher, but healthy, body fat percentage. It's crucial to recognize that fitness goals vary, and so should the methods to achieve them.
For many, the stress and potential negativity associated with rigorous calorie tracking can be counterproductive. Therefore, if counting calories feels overwhelming, it might be more prudent to focus initially on overall dietary quality, increased physical activity, and gradual adjustments. This approach can often yield substantial results without the meticulous need to track every calorie.
However, for those aiming to reach single-digit body fat percentages, calorie counting becomes almost inevitable. It's an advanced strategy that fine-tunes the diet to achieve precise fitness outcomes. Utilizing tools like MyFitnessPal or even a basic food scale can provide valuable insights into your dietary intake, helping you make informed adjustments.
Interestingly, the physiological feedback from devices like the WHOOP strap offers a modern method to understand your body's needs. By monitoring metrics such as heart rate, stress levels, oxygen levels, and basal metabolic rate (BMR), you can tailor your calorie intake and expenditure dynamically. This biohacking approach provides a more detailed and responsive way to manage your fitness journey.
In conclusion, whether or not to count calories depends on your personal goals and preferences. Establish a solid foundation in all aspects of fitness, and if you decide to pursue lower body fat percentages, incorporate calorie tracking as an advanced tool. The ultimate aim is to remain motivated, feel better, and achieve a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. Stay tuned for future updates, and consider joining my new Facebook group to connect with like-minded individuals and share your fitness journey.
If you're interested in online personal training or being a guest on my podcast, "Over 40 Fitness Hacks," you can reach me at brad@over40fitnesshacks.com or visit my website at:
Additionally, check out my Yelp reviews for my local business, Evolve Gym in Huntington Beach, at https://bit.ly/3GCKRzV
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