Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Revolutionized Calorie Counting!!! My Fitness Pal

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It has been too long!  I could make the excuse to you that I have been too busy to keep you updated with the latest and greatest in the fitness world but I won't. 

Now, I am sure most of you already know about the software/app that I am going to share with you but if you do not know what I am talking about, PAY ATTENTION! 

If you're like most people trying to shed a few pounds, you have probably tried counting calories and more than likely have failed at it.  The reason being that it does take time and it is not always convenient.  Therefore, the calorie counting goes out the window and the results suffer. 

I have clients telling me all the time that they know "HOW" to eat and that they "DON'T EAT BAD" but the point they are missing is, not that they do not know how to eat or that they are eating bad, it is the simple fact that they are EATING TOO MUCH if weight loss is the goal.  Or, they are not eating enough if weight gain is the goal. 

With all of the technology, (smart phones, tablets, and computers) logging your nutrition and guessing has become a thing of the past.  I can't think of anyone who does not have their phone on them at most hours of the day.  In fact, I bet you have it right next to you as you read this, or you're reading this on your phone.  Either way, my point is, if you want to be successful whether it's weight loss, weight gain or simply to maintain it is important to know how much is going into your body and whether or not you are able to burn off those calories throughout the day.

With the help of a handy little app on your phone, tablet or computer called My Fitness Pal it takes the guess workout out of calorie counting and puts you back in control.  This app is perfect for those on the go.  There are over 1.8 million different food items and it even comes with a bar code scanner to help eliminate tedious data input.  Best of all!  It's FREE!

MFP has made this app to help keep you accountable and keep you on track all along your journey whatever it may be.  It allows you to interact with friends via their integrated social network so you and your friends, trainer or family can keep each other in check. 

If you are the type of person who thinks that logging food is a waste of time I have living proof that it works.  For 9 weeks my then fiance (now wife) used MFP to log her nutrition while working out diligently, she managed to lose 6% body fat and 5lbs. before our wedding day.  All the while she was able to indulge in some of her favorite foods while staying within her designated calories for her particular weight group. 

One of the greatest things about this app is that it allows you to eat some of the foods you enjoy while keeping you honest about portion sizes.  (Keep in mind eating the foods you like is fine but there are other consequences to be aware of not just weight gain.) 

My Fitness Pal is a fantastic, user friendly app that helps assure positive results.  Give it a try, you wont be disappointed.


Best Wishes,
Derek