Why Fitness Fads Aren't the Answer
By Genevieve Cunningham
When it comes to choosing a workout program to help you lose weight and get fit, it's easy to fall for the newest fad. Everyone's talking about it. It's heavily advertised. It seems to be working for everyone else. While the newest fad may work, chances are good that it won't be all you envisioned. To help you avoid jumping on the newest trend’s bandwagon, take a look at these reasons why the fitness fads usually aren't the answer.
They Don’t Alter Your Lifestyle
Fitness fads may feel exciting at first. You may jump in head first and feel super motivated to complete the new program. The problem is that these programs are always temporary. Unless the new fad is to teach you healthy habits from the most basic level, chances are good that they won’t alter your lifestyle enough to make permanent change. You may see results while you’re working the program, but as soon as the duration of the program is over, the old health habits come back and so does your previous fitness level.
They Don’t Have Any Magic
When we first see a new fad, we think that it’s some kind of magic. Perhaps not literal magic, but we’re led to believe that someone has finally found the answer. The magic pill. The easy way out. The truth is that there is no magic, no man behind the curtain. The only thing that most fad fitness programs really have is the ability to get you motivated for a certain amount of time. But as far as changing your health for good, the magic won’t work because it’s not present.
They Can Get Boring
A lot of fitness fads consist of a particular diet or workout routine. In the beginning, sticking to either of these is fine. Over time, it starts to get really boring. Your body and mind are craving something new, something different. Since most don't have you changing your habits at the core level, it's easy to give up long before any results are seen.
Is there anything wrong with a fitness fad? Not usually. Sometimes it's a good way to get people motivated. But a much better option is to stick with the basics. Move more, eat less, and be consistent. If you can master these three pieces, you’ll find more lasting success than any fitness fad could ever bring to your life.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Aiken, S.C.