How Long Does it Take to See Changes?

Most people get discouraged after two, maybe three weeks of eating healthy and exercising; the number on the scale hasn't changed, their jean size isn't any smaller, and their sleeves haven't ripped from their massive biceps yet. This is where people fall off the "health train."

In reality, it can take at least six weeks of intense dieting and training to see any significant changes. Your metabolism and nervous system adjusts to significant physical changes being made.

Say you make it to six weeks and remain faithful in your nutrition and exercise; this does NOT mean your work is done. This is another time where people fall back into the cycle of weight-loss and weight-gain. Let's say someone reaches their first goal and loses 10 pounds, and they reward themselves with a "cheat" meal. One cheat meal turns into two, two turns into a week, and so on. This individual becomes lazy, still goes to the gym, but they are no longer tracking their diets. Those 10 pounds lost, become 15 pounds gained.

Disclaimer: cheat meals are absolutely fine. However, they aren't "free." In other words, they still count towards your caloric totals.

Onto another type of individual. This individual, like the last, loses 10 lbs, increases muscle mass, and stays on track. However, this time, they continue with the same caloric intake and same work out regime as week 6 of their training program. This is where results stagnate and plateau. At this point, this individual's body has adapted.

Disclaimer: work out programs are constantly changing, as are nutritional needs! If you stick to the same work outs, you won't make progress. Your health is an investment! Personal trainers are great resources and can keep you going in the right direction to reach your goal(s).

Guess what?! I am a certified personal trainer, and I can help you reach your goals! (Yep, I am trying to sell myself, and I hope its working!) Losing fat or increasing muscle mass is not an easy process, especially when it comes to the nutritional side of things. People can overeat or not eat enough and this is the ultimate dictator of results. I have personally found that if people make a monetary investment in their health, they are more likely to abide by a regime. It puts a literal value on their health. I offer free 20-minute consults, and rates vary on programs. Contact me with an inquiries!