Weight Loss Workout Programs
Here’s a summary of a couple of popular weight loss workout programs.
Conventional Weight Loss Program
The classic “eat less than you burn” program. This is the standard method of losing weight and is the probably the model that people are most familiar with. The basic idea is very simple – By consuming less calories than you burn, you force your body to tap into fat stores for energy – thus losing fat. It’s a very sustainable program and it’s the one most people are likely to stick to.
Of course, you have to have at least a vague idea of how many calories you’re consuming and burning. This can be difficult at first but with a few calculations and careful attention to what you put into your body over a couple of weeks or so, you can arrive at some rough numbers. This conventional approach to weight loss is ideal when combined with a good program of weight lifting and cardiovascular exercise.
Ketogenic or Low-Carb Diets
We’ve all heard of these, largely in thanks to Dr. Atkins. The basic premise is this: eat as much protein, fat and vegetables as you like, but eliminate carbohydrates from your diet, or only consume very small amounts in the morning or on specified “cheat” days. These diets are very much “all or nothing” – they are based on the principle of ketosis, which is a metabolic shift made by your body whereby it derives all its energy from fat stores. The transition process can be nauseating as you struggle with faintness, “brain fog” and immense carbohydrate cravings. Your workouts will suffer hugely and you’ll find yourself severely struggling with energy day to day. However the benefits can be amazing – it’s possible to lose fat VERY quickly.
Ketogenic diets are NOT for beginners. Pro bodybuilders lose them to drop weight quickly before contest, and if you aren’t closely monitoring liver, kidney and blood values it’s possible to land yourself in a very poor state of health. It could be argued that Dr. Atkins did the west a great disservice by popularising these diets, capitalising on an “I want results now” consumer mindset.
However, the results do speak for themselves and if you think you’re up to it then ketogenic weight loss workout programs certainly obtain results – but please do check with a doctor to make sure your liver, kidneys and general health are up to it first… and don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Tags: fat stores, ketogenic, ketogenic weight loss, losing weight, low-carb diets, pro bodybuilders