My Diet + Fitness Philosophy

I began my relationship with the gym when I was sixteen years old training with my mom who has always been very active since I was born. With her I learned how to properly use the machines and what exercises work which muscles. It has changed my life since then once timid among men but now i'm more comfortable than ever. Now in my 20's I workout with a friend and maintain a solid 3 day regime sometimes doing a home workout if desired. I'm not going to lie and say I've always been consistent some of us go through rough patches in university given the work load and the distance I lived from the campus gym I got lazy.

I go to the gym at 12 or after 9 as those are the hours I have the most energy so always stick to what is suitable for you. I go for an hour or 2 starting off with a 5 minute stretch, 5 minute cardio warm up, weight training, and finishing with absIn terms of eating habits as I get older I'm more conscious of what I put in my body. Following the Mediterranean diet I drink mostly water, snack on fresh fruit and veggies, favor organic, limit sweets and anything with Carrageenan in it. I gave up dairy except yogurt and switched to soy milk, avoid processed foods as best as possible, and eat halal meat. We all have our indulgences this weekend I had fried chicken, poutine, and sushi on weekends I eat as a I please . Never rush your exercises if your on limited time focus on a HITT workout and despite what the Instagram girls wear running shoes are most suitable I highly recommend memory foam one's. I also don't care for resistant bands just stick to traditional weights they are simply a trend. My taste in music is diverse and upbeat a good tailored playlist with keep your endorphin's up and motivate you to stay focused.

Overall I've noticed the importance of physical activity key to manage stress, promote better sleep, stay healthy, and it lowers the risk of disease. So focus on what motivates you (partner, new athletic clothes, playlist, or a scenic path). Listen to your body and know your limit. I'm not a fan of extreme diets because they're not realistic and too restricting we need to reject "perfection" and that starts with having a positive relationship with our bodies. When it comes to lifting I gradually increase focusing on super sets (5, 7.5, and 10) and always challenging myself with new exercises and routine's so I don't hit a plateau (Popsugar Fitness, Well+Good, Self Magazine, and Alexia Clark where I go for inspo). Once you embrace your flaws and commit you'll be proud of the gains you make !