So you want that perfect six pack, toned legs, nice glutes?
This is something that we work hard for but how much is too much? There is so much
in the media about anorexia, obesity and bulimia but not much information about
exercise and healthy eating obsession, also termed as orthorexia nervosa, which
I believe is just as bad. This is when you begin to obsess about every workout,
every meal and it transforms into an unhealthy addiction. This is
something that I spoke to women about recently at a seminar and it’s something
that I feel strongly about.
I am definitely dedicated to what I do and absolutely love
healthy eating and fitness. When I am competing I am 100% focused on the end
goal but if I ever begin obsessing about every little thing then I take a step
back to re-evaluate as this is when it begins to get unhealthy. Time and time
again, I have seen women get obsessed with exercise and healthy eating. There
is a HUGE difference between prepping for a competition and living a healthy
lifestyle. Prepping for a competition is for a short amount of time,
usually 12 weeks with a very strict diet, and if you are competing stick to
this as much as you can to have the best end result. However, living a healthy
lifestyle is about maintaining that type of exercise and nutrition for your
life. If you are obsessing over having a slice of cheesecake, are you really
living your life? As long as you eat these treats in moderation you will be
fine.
Too much exercise and the body will begin to break down and
you will be more susceptible to the flu. Removing whole food groups for an
extended period of time can actually have a negative effect on the body and you
may not be as healthy as what you think you are. Remember why you started
exercising and healthy eating, it was to lead a healthy lifestyle and once it
becomes an obsession this is no longer the case and you may be doing your body
more harm than good. This can also put a strain on relationships as people
begin to avoid friends house or restaurants for dinner.
Just remember that we are all real human beings, if you have
been eating healthy the majority of the time and eat piece of cake don’t feel
guilty, savour that delicious flavour. Have fun, live life a little and lead a
healthy lifestyle!
Here's a pic of me with some of the women I spoke to xx
Here's a pic of me with some of the women I spoke to xx
