Swimming Lessons
We’ve all heard it, and very few of us are still in denial about the out-of-control spiral of the weight of the average American. If you have never looked at the numbers you can see in the US maps from the CDC the increases in obesity in America by state. By 1990 most states had begun tracking obesity numbers. In 1990 no state had more than 14% of the adult population qualifying as obese. When you jump to 2017, now no state is below 20% of the population being considered obese with many states having over 35% of the population suffering from obesity. Even those who are not classified as obese, but still need to “lose a few” are on the rise.
The good news is 2017 is the first year that we see any state in the union reducing its obesity rates. As we turn the corner and try to get our waistlines under control, I want to address one issue that is often sabotaging our efforts. Understanding this will help you not fall victim to the issue.
Working out makes you hungry so you tend to eat more after a workout. You can help keep your calorie consumption after a workout on track by eating within an hour after the workout and ensure a good amount of protein in the meal. While you are working out blood is diverted from the stomach to the muscles. Once you stop, the hunger comes on quickly and usually with more intensity. Take advantage of the time lag it takes for your body to recover and eat before you are “starving” from your workout.
The second form of this problem is when you feel like you “earned a reward” or “can afford a treat” because of the tough workout. To stay out of this trap, keep the math in mind. A 150 lb swimmer who does a swimming mile in 30 minutes burns about 400 calories. Now read the label on your favorite treat. Did you just burn more calories or consume more? A typical bowl of ice cream can be more calories than you just burned swimming a mile.
So don’t let yourself get fooled into gaining weight when your goal is to lose or maintain
Written by Coach Pat Rohner
