Fine balance

We talk about fat loss training, muscle gains, maintenance...and so often we forget that nothing is ultimately the same applied with different variables.

X + Y = Z

X = training

Y = nutrition

Z = what you look like

It's simple as that. So why am I telling you this?
Because this formula has versions that ultimately come out to a different Z, Z being you.

Consider my wonderful client J who has been stable as two different formulas over the last two years.

2007

X = heavy strength training 3 x week + 2 interval sessions, properly periodized throughout the year

Y = eating 1500 calories, 4 meals a day, attention to protein at every meal

Z = 120 lbs, 14% bodyfat and an unhappy J, who now felt like she weighed too much (for a 5 ft woman who has always been slightly underweight that's understandable)

2008

X = heavy strength training 1 x week, moderate strength training work 2 x week, 1 interval training session, overall less volume and intensity than 2007

Y = eating 1200 calories, 3 meals a day, attention to protein at every meal, but slightly lower with higher carbs

Z = 112 lbs, 13% bodyfat and a happy J, who feels like her clothes fit again, she is rarely hungry like before and much less tired from workouts

So what works for you and when was the last time you looked at how your workouts and nutrition sum up to match a happy end result?