The Second Wave

        In the fitness industry I like to call this time of year the second wave. The first wave is in January when people are trying to live up to their resolutions. The second wave is when the weather starts to get nicer. It's that time of year when the days are longer, the sun is shining and people start to think about shedding their winter coats... better known as the extra pounds they have put on over the winter.

        People are all of a sudden in a major rush to drop weight so that they look great in a bathing suit. The major problem with people rushing towards their target weight is that they tend to starve themselves and over train. This may lead to reaching goals quickly but it also subjects you them injury and usually doesn't keep the weight off in the long run.

        Take the time to map out an action plan that involves a balance of training and calorie reduction. Aim to lose about 1-2 pounds per week. With the nice weather around the corner, take the time to include outdoor activities in your program. The fresh air will help to shed the weight along with the winter blahs that come with our long winters. There isn't a rush to drop the weight. It took time to put it on and it will take time to lose it. Just try your best to stay on track with good eating habits and be consistent with your exercise.

        On a personal note, I still haven't missed a day of training. It's been harder to squeeze in with my intense schedule but I've managed. I feel great despite a neck strain last week from Muay Thai and all of the bruises that have come along with my newfound training. I'm learning quite a bit and my trainer has really pushed me to my limits.

        It's a real benefit to be in school for massage therapy. I have been fortunate to be on the receiving end of some great massages in the last month and they have made a huge difference. I had a massage that focused on my legs and holy moses did it have an impact on my kicking strength the next day at the gym. This past weekend we were thankfully focusing on the back and neck. What a world of good it did for me.

        It turns out that I'm not the only person with neck pain lately. Most people have been coming to me with neck and upper back pain. If you are having any similar problems please get in touch with me and I will gladly try my best to take the pain away and relax those muscles for you :)

Until next time, bring your A game every day!!!

Mike