The Energy Equation:

When you start your gym journey, it can be tempting to fall into the mindset of ‘dieting’. You want to make maximum progress! So you start eating salads, hugely cutting calories and depriving yourself of things you love. Initially, you notice the weight loss happening, things feel great, and clothes feel looser BUT… on the flip side, you also start to feel tired, your muscles are aching and the thought of going back to the gym fills you with dread. So you stop showing up. Which in turn means you give up on the diet. And before you know it you’re back to square one.

Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing. You need to think of food as fuel. Calories are like the energy units that power you through your workouts. If you restrict calories too much, it becomes tough to keep up a consistent training routine. Plus, if you want to build muscle, you need those calories for your body to repair and grow those muscles. This is why we don’t preach restrictive diets here at Function Fitness.

The Pitfalls of Salad-Only Diets:

Sure, salads can be healthy, but if you rely on them exclusively, you might run into some issues. One big problem is that you could end up missing out on essential nutrients your body needs to function well. And let’s be honest, salads might not always leave you feeling full and satisfied. That can lead to cravings, and you might end up eating more calories later on.

The Importance of Balanced Nutrition:

Your body needs a mix of different nutrients to perform its best. Carbohydrates are like your body’s main source of energy, so you should include complex carbs like whole grains, fruits, and veggies in your diet. Protein is crucial for repairing and growing your muscles, which is probably one of your goals at the gym. Don’t forget about healthy fats too, like those in avocados or nuts – they’re necessary for overall health and hormone production.

Finding Your Caloric Sweet Spot:

It’s all about finding the right balance between the calories you eat and the ones you burn during workouts. You want to hit that sweet spot where you have enough energy to fuel your workouts, help your muscles grow, and manage your weight effectively. If you’re not sure how to find this balance, our resident nutrition coach Gemma can help you to simplify and make a plan that will keep you feeling satisfied AND strong. Without giving up the foods you love! You can schedule a free chat with gemma here

Conclusion:

When you’re on your gym journey, remember that food isn’t the enemy. It’s your fuel. While salads have their place in a balanced diet, they shouldn’t be your only focus. Aim for a diet that’s packed with different nutrients to give you the energy you need for regular workouts, muscle growth, and overall health. By nourishing your body the right way, you’ll be setting yourself up for success on your fitness journey. It’s all about making sustainable habits and looking for those long-term results, not quick fixes or deprivation.