Thursday, October 05, 2006
Need to Rant
Ok here's the deal- Nothing ticks me off more than searching for the quick fix or dropping a pill to make you feel better. I hate it I hate it I hate it.
I got into a nice discussion with a good friend about marathon training. One of the biggest benefits of all the training I do, is I've gotten into pretty good shape. Because I can now handle a more demanding pace, I can now go faster. It's a simple equation. Do the work or conditioning and you'll reap your rewards. The only caveat though is it takes a long time, or a really long time. Most people who don't train like we do - do not understand what drives us.
American society is built on a fast food and instant gratification. I want it now, or, give me a pill to take to treat my symptoms, nevermind about the cure.
I could write a diet book (actually only a couple of sentences)on how to lose weight but no one wants to pay for common sense. Ok, I'll tell everyone the easiest way to lose weight - guaranteed to work no matter what. Ready? Eat less workout more. That's it. You think I could sell that for a million or two and become a best selling author? The advice is very sauguine but tough to swallow.
One pound of fat equals 3500 calories. In order to lose one pound a week, you would need to create a caloric differential of 500 calories a day. That's it. Simple eh? There are no quick fixes, no easy shortcuts, you have to do the work. I am not saying you need to train for marathons, but a slight behavior change could have dramatic results.
Giving up regular soda can save you at least 150 calories per can! You are well on your way to your 500 calories a day reduction and you didn't even have to get off your butt and walk down the block. :)
There are many parallels between serious training and diet. Both take a long time to do right, results are not immediate, and in some cases, it could take years before dramatic changes can take place. Of course, your mileage may vary.
End of rant.
I got into a nice discussion with a good friend about marathon training. One of the biggest benefits of all the training I do, is I've gotten into pretty good shape. Because I can now handle a more demanding pace, I can now go faster. It's a simple equation. Do the work or conditioning and you'll reap your rewards. The only caveat though is it takes a long time, or a really long time. Most people who don't train like we do - do not understand what drives us.
American society is built on a fast food and instant gratification. I want it now, or, give me a pill to take to treat my symptoms, nevermind about the cure.
I could write a diet book (actually only a couple of sentences)on how to lose weight but no one wants to pay for common sense. Ok, I'll tell everyone the easiest way to lose weight - guaranteed to work no matter what. Ready? Eat less workout more. That's it. You think I could sell that for a million or two and become a best selling author? The advice is very sauguine but tough to swallow.
One pound of fat equals 3500 calories. In order to lose one pound a week, you would need to create a caloric differential of 500 calories a day. That's it. Simple eh? There are no quick fixes, no easy shortcuts, you have to do the work. I am not saying you need to train for marathons, but a slight behavior change could have dramatic results.
Giving up regular soda can save you at least 150 calories per can! You are well on your way to your 500 calories a day reduction and you didn't even have to get off your butt and walk down the block. :)
There are many parallels between serious training and diet. Both take a long time to do right, results are not immediate, and in some cases, it could take years before dramatic changes can take place. Of course, your mileage may vary.
End of rant.
