Reflecting on My Fitness Journey: What I Would Do Differently If I Started Over
Embarking on a fitness journey is often a rollercoaster ride filled with highs, lows, and plenty of lessons learned along the way. Looking back on my own experience, there are several things I wish I had done differently if I were to start all over again. From initial fat loss to navigating the world of strength training, and even delving into the realm of diet, here’s what I’ve come to realize:
Incorporating Strength Training Early on for a Balanced Physique:
During my initial fat loss journey, I successfully shed pounds from 250 to 150. However, what I failed to prioritize was incorporating a strength training component. As a result, when I reached my goal weight, I found myself lacking muscle definition and feeling what’s commonly referred to as “skinny fat.”
In hindsight, adding even just a basic bodyweight training routine 2–3x a week it would have made a significant difference. By focusing on building strength alongside losing fat, I could have achieved a more balanced physique from the start.
Seeking Guidance from a Trainer for Proper Technique and Training:
Upon stepping foot into the gym, I wish I had recognized the importance of seeking guidance from a knowledgeable trainer. Despite my efforts, I found myself struggling to target certain muscle groups effectively, particularly the back muscles, hamstrings, and key compound movements like squats and hinges.
Moreover, I lacked understanding about the volume and intensity required for optimal results. It took me years of trial and error to grasp these concepts, hindering my progress in the process. Looking back, investing in a trainer from the outset would have accelerated my learning curve and prevented wasted time.
Prioritizing Form Over Weight in Strength Training:
As I delved into strength training, I wish I had placed more emphasis on form rather than solely focusing on increasing the weight on the bar. Unfortunately, I learned this lesson the hard way, experiencing a few injuries from neglecting proper form in pursuit of lifting heavier weights. These setbacks not only sidelined my progress but also served as a harsh reminder of the importance of prioritizing form to prevent injuries and ensure long-term success.
Rethinking the Role of Supplements:
In the early stages of my fitness journey, I used to believe that supplements were essential for achieving my goals. I was convinced that they held the key to unlocking massive gains and optimizing my performance. Consequently, I found myself taking over a dozen supplements, hoping for miraculous results.
However, over time, I came to realize that the gains from supplements are minimal at best. Nowadays, I limit my supplement intake to just 1–3 essentials, primarily focusing on vitamins and minerals that I struggle to obtain sufficiently from my diet. This shift in mindset has not only simplified my supplementation routine but also helped me prioritize whole foods as the foundation of my nutrition.
Rethinking Diet Approaches:
When it comes to diet, I made several mistakes by following fad diets in the hopes of achieving quick results. I experimented with numerous trendy diets, believing they held some magical benefit. However, none of them lived up to their promises. In fact, they often left me feeling frustrated and deprived.
What I’ve come to realize is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. What works for one person may not work for another. Instead of chasing after fads, I now advocate for a whole foods approach that focuses on consuming micronutrient-dense foods and doesn’t demonize any macronutrient.
By prioritizing nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, animal protein, and healthy fats, I’ve been able to fuel my body effectively and sustainably. This approach not only supports my fitness goals but also promotes overall health and well-being.
Things I Did Right
While reflecting on my journey, I also acknowledge the things I did right:
- I appreciate that I experimented with various types of training, including calisthenics, powerlifting, bodybuilding, and strongman routines. This diverse exposure allowed me to gain insights into different training modalities and discover what works best for my body.
- Now, armed with knowledge from different disciplines, I can integrate elements from each to create well-rounded and personalized training programs. Combining the principles of strength, endurance, and hypertrophy training, I believe, is the key to achieving optimal results and long-term success.
In conclusion, reflecting on my fitness journey has provided valuable insights into what I would do differently if given the chance to start over. From prioritizing strength training to seeking professional guidance, rethinking the role of supplements, and embracing cutting and bulking cycles, these lessons have reshaped my approach to fitness. While the journey may have been filled with challenges, each experience has ultimately contributed to my growth and evolution as an athlete.
Remember, it’s never too late to course-correct and pursue your fitness goals with renewed determination and knowledge. Here’s to embracing the journey, learning from our mistakes, and continually striving for progress.
Keep pushing forward, and may your fitness journey be filled with success and fulfillment.