Frequently Asked Fitness Questions

Do you ever have a questions regarding your health and fitness and google just isn’t enough? Well it’s time for the first Q&A of a two part series! This series is based on questions regarding health and fitness given anonymously from people and they are answered here! I’m extremely excited about this as I know there are a lot of people out there with so many questions and just need a little guidance in the right direction and that’s what I’m here for. I wanted this to be as genuine as possible so most of these questions were received through social media, while a few were just common questions that I receive on a daily basis. The answers to these questions are sometimes not exactly what you want to hear, but based on my experience are genuine and true.

I’ve been working out and eating healthy for a week. Why haven’t I seen results?

The classic, “where are my abs??” Question. To start off, a week is not nearly enough time to see results. The true key to weight loss or muscular gain, whatever your goal is, is CONSISTENCY. And not just being consistent for a week but realistically, 6-8 weeks. And that’s also if you’re eating correctly, and working out strategically.

So, take a deep breath, you’ve done great so far. Just keep going. In the long-run 6-8 weeks is not that much time in comparison to the rest of your life.

Why do I have the hips of an 80 year old??

This question came from a 30 year old to put it into perspective. But it’s a common issue that is continuing to grow. Muscle and/or joint aches can come from many different things. Apart from a traumatic injury, this can mostly be caused from simply, not exercising. When we sit for 8-10 hours a day (work, tv, eating, etc.) our muscles are stuck in a position for way too long of time. When this happens they tighten and “lock up”. This can cause aches and pains.

So simple solution? Get moving. Go for 10 minute walks throughout your day, do some light stretching away from the desk. Just keep moving!

How do I build the booty?

Another classic question. In my personal experience the key to really building up that butt is to lift heavy and eat plenty. Now don’t go crazy and eat a ton of pizza (I mean, occasionally of course but not every day) just add some more carbs and protein to your meals. With lifting heavy, focus on the primary lifts; squats, and deadlifts.

My own booty didn’t get bigger until I started doing heavy deadlifting. Do your research, and give it a try!

Will “healthier” options of snacks help me get abs?

Abs? Not sure about that. Usually to get that six pack showing, a healthier option of snack involves rice cakes and a protein shake. But to lose weight in general? If you are regularly eating sugar-packed cookies and switch to keto-friendly cookies (for example) then chances are you may see some results! In my opinion, stick to the normal cookie, and instead of cookieS, go for one. Everything in moderation and you should see some great results!

I’m a beginner. How much Physical activity would you suggest weekly? And what kind?

Last question! So. This is all dependent on the person. Set realistic goals. A lot of times people get carried away and say that they’re going to start going to the gym 6 days a week when they haven’t been going regularly for years. Then life happens and they only make it 2 days, get discouraged, and stop going altogether. It’s a vicious cycle that, sadly, happens way too often. Start realistically.

General health recommendations are 3 days a week for 30 minutes. In terms of what kind, do what you’re comfortable with. Treadmill for 30 minutes? AWESOME. Then when you’re a little more adjusted add that extra day, add some weights in, just keep GOING. That’s all that matters!

Do you have any burning questions you want answered? Let us know by filling out this form.

Maddy has worked in the health and fitness industry for 5 years. She has a bachelors in Exercise Science and has recently received her Masters in Exercise Physiology. She has worked with a wide demographic of clients as a Personal Trainer and loves helping people reach their goals and continue to grow.  She is an outdoor enthusiast and dedicates her workouts to rock climbing, hiking and whatever new experiences may come her way.

Main Photo Credit &  Third Photo Credit : 4 PM production/shutterstock.com; Second Photo Credit: Jacob Lund/shutterstock.com; Fourth Photo Credit: PR Image Factory/shutterstock.com