Summer is in full swing, and like many around the country, you’re looking to both pack on muscle and lean out. However, as you may or may not know, this can be a lot more difficult than it sounds. This is because the wrong nutritional plan may cause you to slim down but so will your muscles and vice versa. So, as you can see, things can go south very quickly. Thus, the following includes a few nutritional tips for weight lifters like yourself to keep in mind.
Protein, Protein, Protein
If you have a good amount of weight on you already, you may have gone through the “bulking” phase of your fitness. During that time, you may have noticed that although carbohydrates may have helped you pack on the muscle quickly, they may have also caused you to gain weight in the not-so-desirable areas of your body. However, cutting carbs can lead to substantial muscle loss as well. So, what’s the solution? The best way to lean out and avoid losing muscle is to increase your protein intake. Protein provides the building blocks for your muscles, and thus having adequate amounts during low-carb days can help to diminish the amount of muscle lost.
Hire a Macro Coach
No matter how much experience you have, most people can benefit from a personal macro coach. If you are not familiar with what a macro coach is, they are basically someone who has a deep knowledge and understanding of nutrition, but especially within the area of fitness. Sometimes they’re certified, and sometimes their track record speaks for themselves. However, it is highly recommended that you speak with your personal physician before starting any type of diet or workout program.
Avoid Drinking Your Calories
When it comes to leaning out and keeping your strength up, drinking your calories is possibly one of the worst things you can do. This is because when you drink your calories, you are forfeiting meals that could have provided you with much more nutrition. Drinks to avoid include sports drinks (which are riddled with carbs and sugar) as well as soda and some energy drinks. Water and your protein shakes are what should be prioritized in terms of your liquids.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to take your body to the next level, the tips listed are a great place to start your fitness journey. Again, always speak with your personal physician before starting any workout or nutritional plan.