Wednesday, December 31, 2008

The Basics of Metabolism....

Ok....So we all have heard this one, "My metabolism is slow." Many people are misinformed about metabolism. So here are some metabolism 101 basics to review and understand. To understand how metabolism works in relation to your body omit the myth that the amount of bodyfat you carry affects your metabolism. In actuality the amount of muscle you carry in you overall body composition affects you metabolism. Muscle is more metabolic than fat thus allowing the body to burn more calories.



Consider the following scenario: You initially start a regular workout regime and loose 10% of bodyfat after 6 weeks of training. Then as you continue you notice a stalled point where you no longer see your bodyfat decreasing.



This scenario is typical for most individuals when they have hit a stalled metabolism and their plateau. There are two primary reasons why this occur. One being that you are smaller so your metabolism is naturally slowing down and trying to match the new you. Secondly, you body has went into starvation mode and as a result thyroid hormone levels drop, so you are not burning as many calories as you were before. Eventually your metabolism will adjust to the new you, but it takes time and your body getting used to the new you. Consider your body and metabolism to be on your side and eliminate those metabolism myths and worries. Don't be afraid to make adjustments to your exercise routine and daily caloric intakes. Something as simple as increasing the intensity of your workouts can increase your BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) resulting in an increased metabolism.

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