Preparation

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“If you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail”.
        -Mark Spitz

Preparation! This is the most important aspect of sticking with any health and fitness plan. As a former figure competitor, I ate 6 meals/day every 3 hours. I trained 2-3 hours a day. Preparation was essential to my success. When we are not prepared mentally and physically, it is easy to be persuaded by distractions (aka FATIGUE and HUNGER). That is why I like to take 5-10 minutes every morning preparing myself mentally for what I need to accomplish that day. When I am prepared, it becomes easier to eat cleaner and train smarter.

Preparation Tips

  • First, I like to cook and prepare my food twice a week. I either buy precooked chicken breast or grill my own, chop it up and store it in the refrigerator. I also like to do this with vegetables. This makes it easier to eat a salad for lunch since everything is ready.
  • I also like to have protein powder available for when I am on the go or just need a quick meal or snack. I usually bring a shake to the gym with me to drink right after my workout. This keeps my hunger at bay and replenishes my body after a good sweat session.
  • I stock up on raw nuts, seeds, fruit, and veggies...this makes it a cinch to grab something healthful as opposed to what crackers or cookies may be lurking in the pantry!
  • I schedule my workout! Some people like to exercise after they drop their kids off at school, others like to hit the gym after work...I like to be there at 4:45 am when the gym doors swing open...yes, I know, it’s crazy, but for me, it works! I get it done every day since there is nothing else I have to do at that hour of the day except sleep...And I will catch up on that when I’m dead. Whatever hour of the day, find the time that works for you and put it on your calendar.
  • Have a plan when you workout. Workouts are more effective when you know what you are about to train. Whether its your cardio day or you are training with weights or practicing yoga, it’s important to have a plan.

Hope these tips help you stay better prepared.

Be well,
BW