The Perfect Body

Every body is different. Different height, weight, and shape. And with everyone's different body types, there are many different ideas of the "perfect body" for them, which means different goals. Different goals mean different types of training. Sometimes people don't even care about a certain look, they're just training for other goals like running a marathon or 5K, being able to bench their bodyweight, or squat a certain amount. Sometimes they want to simply be able to play with their kids outside without getting worn out quickly.

The key is knowing how to train for the results YOU want. Sometimes you get lucky. Maybe you're just working out for your health, or to maintain strength or bone density. As a side effect you might start seeing your body change in a great way. I believe that's the best way to train. That way, if you're training for your health primarily, you're always excited by the side effects no matter how small the changes may be.

If you ARE training for weight-loss you need to know how to train for that. For example, if you've always been a runner, chances are that running will not help you in your quest. Your body is already accustomed to this method of training. You can still do cardio if you prefer, but you have to change it up with stairs or the rowing machine. If you're a lifter, like me, you're going to have to suck it up and get in some cardio (running, elliptical, stairs, or rowing). You may be able to skip it if you add in some high intensity lifting, like adding the use of kettlebells, ropes, or circuit training.

My ideal body looks like, UFC MMA fighter and bantam weight champion, "Rowdy" Ronda Rousey. She has the ability, in my opinion, to be a beast in the weightroom/octagon and a knockout on the red carpet. Just enough muscle without being hyper-masculine. To achieve my goals, I'm going to have to put more emphasis on making muscular gains for a while then add in cardio to cut some body fat to show off the flat abs, guns, and tree trunks for legs.

(Note: I know not everyone shares my idea of the perfect body. I wouldn't train others the way I train myself if they had other goals in mind.)

If you need help attaining your goals, comment here or reach out to me at cpollner@ftwfit.com. You can also go to my website www.ftwfit.com

Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays

What did you get for Christmas (or whatever holiday you celebrate) this year? There are many families all over the world that can't afford much; however, almost everyone can afford physical activity. Playing with kids, walking your dog, going for a hike, walk or bike ride are all free or very inexpensive

 ways to stay active. 

Looking forward to New Years, many people will set New Years resolutions. I am personally not of fan of them because so many people, including myself, fall off the wagon quickly. We set our goals too high and when we fail to achieve them, we feel even worse. This year let's set a couple smaller, more attainable goals. Think about it. When you achieve something, the thrill of success makes us want to do even more. 

Soon I will be posting videos for little physical activity tips and tricks on YouTube. You can also go to www.ftwfit.com if you're looking for a little more help with setting and reaching your fitness goals this 2014. 

My New Years plan is to continue working on eating healthy on a budget and practicing what I preach in the gym. I love to lift weights way more than cardio, so I will be trying to increase my cardio every couple weeks. Slow and steady wins the race. 

Help me help you and visit www.ftwfit.com or like me on Facebook at Facebook.com/FTWFIT