Spring is in the Air…

Can you believe it?…yes, we are already to March! And spring is right around the corner. I receive letters/ email daily from people that have all sorts of questions about training, nutrition and general wellness, but the email I received this morning was classic in that a former client woke up and realized that her New Year’s resolution came and went! She is now concerned about spring and summer!

      My answer?…the remedy? Always the same, make up your mind to BE A MACHINE, AND GO TO WORK ON YOUR GOAL! In making it fun and easier for her, and to get her excited about being back in the gym, I suggested a group training class. Group training provides an individual the opportunity to work with a trainer; while keeping the cost down and working in a fun environment. In this article I will suggest some of the programs I prescribed for her, and how they can benefit you the reader as well.

      Yoga classes are a great way to get fit. Some assume that Yoga is just about stretching positions, but in reality it is more so about creating balance through strength and flexibility. Each pose has a specific benefit. The poses are constant, but the approach to these poses depends on the instructor. Some prefer a faster style designed to heat up the body, whereas some instructors would prefer a slower pace designed to increase stamina. Either way; experiencing a yoga class is the only way to truly understand the benefits. One would be surprised how many calories are burned during the course of a yoga class.

     Pilates is a form of exercise, developed by Joseph Pilates, which emphasizes the balanced development of the body through core strength, flexibility, and awareness in order to support efficient, graceful movement. It seems like everyone is either doing Pilates, or interested in starting a Pilates exercise program. One of the best things about the Pilates method is that it works well for a broad range of people. Athletes and dancers love it, as do seniors, women rebounding from pregnancy, and people who at various stages of physical rehabilitation.

• (As reported by About.com) The best benefits doing of Pilates exercise that people report are that they become stronger, longer, leaner, and more able to do anything with grace and ease.

 

Centering, Control, Flow, Breath, Precision, and Concentration

     These six Pilates principles are essential ingredients in a high quality Pilates workout. The Pilates method has always emphasized quality over quantity, and you will find that, unlike many systems of exercise, Pilates exercises do not include a lot of repetitions for each move. Instead, doing each exercise fully, with precision, yields significant results in a shorter time than one would ever imagine.

Pilates is a Unique Method of Exercise.

     Core strength and torso stability, along with the six Pilates principles, set the Pilates method apart from many other types of exercise. Weight lifting, for example, can put a lot of attention on arm or leg strength without attending much to the fact that those parts are connected to the rest of the body! Even running or swimming can seem like all arms and legs, with either a floppy or overly tense core. Ultimately those who really succeed at their sport learn to use their core muscles, but in Pilates this integrative approach is learned from the beginning.

     To fully understand each awesome aspect of Pilates, I would suggest one read about the 6 Pilates Principles. Pilates can be performed in one on one sessions, or of course with a group of people that much like yoga share the same experience level.

Boot Camps! are so very popular; especially as the weather gets warmer and they can be accomplished outdoors! It breaks the monotony and gets one in an environment with likeminded people. All of the group is, or should not be afraid of work! A great Boot Camp instructor will absolutely kick your butt while getting you closer to the ideal you! Boot camps, depending on the instructor incorporate free weights, cardiovascular, and at times machines within the gym environment, depending on the type of Boot camp and level of experience by those attending.

     I did do some local research and found an instructor offering courses that are designed to get clients involved regardless of their level of fitness. Valarie Smith is a local group training instructor that enjoys helping others reach their health and fitness goals. Valarie may be contacted at valarie.smith@ultrafittrainer.com. Valarie has over 20 years experience in the health and fitness field.

     Always remember that each of these programs must go hand in hand with a quality, proven nutrition system! There are no short cuts! Keep the questions coming.  I enjoy hearing from each of you!

*Mat DuVall is a Professional Athlete and member of the International federation of bodybuilding. Mat’s articles have been published both nationally and internationally. Mat is tHE Chief operating officer of Ultra FIT LLC; Recently having partnered exclusively with American Bodyworks. You may email your questions to Mat.DuVall@ultrafittrainer.com!

Believing You Can…

     Many goals, most actually; depend more upon the CHOICE to accomplish whatever the “it” is. Meaning? That once the goal is defined, that individual must take the responsibility and then “DO” the necessary work.

     Addressing one’s goals seems to be a process of life at the beginning of each New Year. This is fitting of course as the first month represents a time to look back at the year behind and usually…WHAT? Yes, remember those goals that were defined and then forgotten…NOT ACCOMPLISHED.

     The Number 2 resolution according to, www.About.com, on a yearly basis is:

“The evidence is in for fitness. Regular exercise has been associated with more health benefits than anything else known to man. Studies show that it reduces the risk of some cancers, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, and even improves arthritis. In short, exercise keeps you healthy and makes you look and feel better.”

     I could write an entire article on New Year’s resolutions. Dating them back to the early Babylonians! There resolutions seemed to be a little easier to accomplish in that most promised to return borrowed farm equipment! However; as to not get off track let us just keep in mind that the resolution to, GET IN SHAPE, involves just as much the starting of new habits as it does giving things like bad food up!

     The process of developing “new habits” can and will involve the following:

1.      Do your best to always have a plan in advance; especially when promising one’s self to get in, or back into shape! You should have that plan before December 31; however, if you are one, (of most), that forget this aspect there is still good news!

     The next several parts to accomplish our goal tie together. I will list them and then explain how your follow through on each should work.

2.      Outline your plan. When defining what it is you want to accomplish with and within your body, outline that plan. This will again help with your resolve in remembering the reasons why you are now making a habit of going to the gym. In reminding yourself why habits like smoking and excessive drinking need TO STOP as well in achieving a wellness goal, and the eternal value of daily, positive affirmations: “I CAN” AND “I WILL”…always help during those conversations one has with self.

3.      Talk about it! Yes, the more people that you share your goals, in this case your new resolutions with? The more accountable you become. Talking about your new found sense of direction will encourage family and friends to make the same choices, and in turn create a network of support. This represents a TEAM of people, that while each may have different motivations? All share the same GOAL of getting in shape!

4.      Keep a Journal that describes in detail how you are feeling day to day. Yes, in order to achieve your goal of getting physically healthier you will have to learn to mentally, “purge” all those feelings of self doubt. This is an easier and less expensive process of going to a therapist! You should sit down on a daily basis and remind yourself of the day’s successes and challenges’ in regard to reaching the goals, short and long term, set in achieving your best shape ever.

5.      DO NOT QUIT! It can take as long as 21 days for a new interest to become a habit, and sometimes up to 6 months in order for that new activity, (going to the gym), to become a true lifestyle change.  This is not that long of a time when one considers the benefits!

    Now, it is time to tie down Points 2 to 5, and show you how one addition to the plan will increase your potential for success!

     Some may not know how to outline what exactly it is they want to accomplish, they just know that they need to do any of the following:

·         Reduce Body Fat

·         Stimulate Muscle

·         Increase Energy

·         Flatten Stomach

·         Reduce Thighs

·         Slim Hips

·         Firm up Buttocks

     Any, some, or perhaps all of these may be the main points of your personal outline to success. Under one, or each you then have to decide what points are going to lead to you ACTING upon the ideas to accomplish them. This leads us to the third point which was talking about it, discussing the goal. Doing so with friends and family members brings together a TEAM of likeminded people, but did you incorporate an “expert” into that support group? The group will need a leader, someone that knows how to take your outline, and discuss not the “I think I will’s…” Rather, will take each point and TALK to you about a DECISIVE PLAN OF ACTION. 

     Outlining your goal and talking about your goal involve TRAINING YOUR MIND, AND EDUCATING YOURSELF to become, to do better for yourself, lets remember the “T”, and the “E” in these two points.

     Moving onto the 4^th and 5^th point we promised ourselves to keep a journal, and NOT quit. This means to be ACCOUNTABLE, and to stay MOTIVATED!

     These two points bring me back to the basis of any great trainer’s career in helping others achieve their goals. I described it, and defined it in the very first article presented. Now, in the New Year of 2009, I must remind each of you: The TEAM CONCEPT!

T- Challenging, result oriented training OF THE MIND AND BODY!

E- Educating one’s self on a quality, proven nutrition systeM!

A – Accountability- knowing that you are accountable for each goal you set!

M – Staying motivated!

 

     WHAT WILL YOU DO IN 2009 TO ACHIVE THE GOAL OF GETTING IN YOUR BEST EVER PHYSICAL CONDITION? hOW WILL YOU DO THINGS DIFFERENT THIS YEAR, AND SUCCEED, AS OPPOSED TO ACCEPTING THE FAILURES OF THE PAST?

     THIS IS ONE CHOICE WHERE IT IS OK TO:

“CHOOSE TO LOSE”

LOSE UNWANTED POUNDS AND GAIN THE RESPECT OF YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY FOR STICKING WITH IT! CREATE A POSITIVE SYSTEM OF ACCOUNTABILITY IN ORDER TO STICK TO YOUR RESOLUTION(S). STAY MOTIVATED BY THINKING ABOUT HIRING A PROFESSIONAL TRAINER TO HELP YOU IN THE OPENING MONTHS OF WHAT CAN AND OFTEN IS MOST A BATTLE OF THE MIND; NOT JUST A STRENUOUS PHYSICAL PATH, AND ALWAYS…

“CREATE A POWERFUL DAY!”

 

*Mat DuVall is a Professional Athlete and member of the International federation of bodybuilding. Mat’s articles have been published both nationally and internationally. Mat is the Chief operating officer of Ultra FIT LLC; Recently having partnered exclusively with American Bodyworks AT VILLA RICA, and RIDGE ROAD.

STARTING NEW…BEFORE THE NEW YEAR!

Christmas is close, Thanksgiving now past, and of course I am hearing from people that want a “quick fix” for getting in shape…back to what they thought was being “in shape.” My answer to these people are that first getting in shape has to be a lifestyle change, and second there is no such thing as a quick fix. What is important is focusing on the here and now. Yes, they, most to all over indulged at Thanksgiving, and are already licking their chops at the thought of the upcoming Holiday feast!

When does it END?

     When does the mind set stop that one can recklessly eat the wrong foods, and not exercise?…yet at a moment’s notice expect to “bounce back into shape”.

     Here are some realities:

·         As you grow older the metabolism slows with each year.

·         As our body’s fat cells grow, and muscle degenerates the body less effectively burns excess calories.

·         These facts equal to a less healthy, UNHAPPIER YOU!

     A major review in Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice reveals that research indicates people who are obese may be more likely to become depressed, and people who are depressed may be more likely to become obese.

     And why do I mention this? (Coming to the point, I promise)

   Glutton for punishment: binge eaters are impulsive and often unable to control their emotions and behavior – includes related information- Binge eating has been called the “forgotten eating disorder” because it has not received the same attention as anorexia and bulimia. But for those who live with it, the disorder cannot be forgotten.

    Rankin and Emil Rick, director of the Sparrow Hospital Weight Management Center in Lansing, Michigan, emphasize binge eating has little to do with food or hunger. Rick says that during bingeing, food is used for comfort and managing unpleasant emotions. Binge eaters often report that an episode of gorging is set off by negative emotions such as anger, guilt or anxiety, and that food is a “drug” to alleviate unpleasant feelings. For many bingers, food has a numbing or sedative effect which promotes temporary feelings of well-being. Rick says that this encourages the binger to overeat again.

 American Fitness,  Nov-Dec, 1997  by Christine F. Ridout

     These quotes point to one of the major “problems” during the holiday season. People find comfort in food, often times too much food, and rarely the right kind of foods. As a society we attempt to “feel better” through consumption of all kinds. Today’s lesson is geared toward a solution!

FOOD IS NOT THE ENEMY!

     Do not allow depression to set it! Get up, get out and into the gym! A combination of exercise and a proven, results oriented nutrition program can and will keep the Holiday Blues at bay!

     Tell yourself everyday that you can! You will!.. Most important that life is too short to be depressed! Being in a supportive environment with other health minded individuals is better than finding solace in a bowl of ice cream. Choosing to become a support system for others that suffer from the same depression associated with the holidays and over eating can help you though your own difficult time.

STEP ONE

     Decide today to change your buying habits in regard to food. This could mean going down only the aisles at the grocery store that serve the purpose of guiding you to a healthier you! As well; and at breakfast, lunch and dinner, say good bye to fast food! These types of food are filled with preservatives, unnecessary sodium and sugar. Choose to become a disciplined MACHINE! See your goal, and develop a plan to achieve it.

AND 2? Yes, STEP!

     Step into a gym and go to work! This too means to develop a plan. Having direction in what you are trying to accomplish. Each month we have discussed the importance of knowing that sometimes? You are going to need help to get to a goal in life. Group Fitness is a great answer in that you can get involved with a program and workout with likeminded individuals; all dealing with the same issues you may be dealing with. Group Fitness may also keep the “expense” of getting in shape to a minimum. Personally I do not feel that any investment into one’s health is too much!

     Get started today, CHOOSE TO LOSE!, YES MAKE THE CHOICE TO LOSE THOSE UNWANTED POUNDS AND FIND YOUR HAPPINESS! Be well, God Bless, and CREATE A POWERFUL DAY!

*Mat DuVall is a Professional Athlete and member of the International federation of bodybuilding. Mat’s articles have been published both nationally and internationally. Mat is the Chief operating officer of Ultra FIT LLC; Recently having partnered exclusively with American Bodyworks. You may email your questions to mat.duvall@ultrafittrainer.com!

HOW DETERMINED ARE YOU?

 

     Last month we discussed how one must effectively feed their body in order to reach a health and fitness goal. This month we are turning to another part of the process; the actual training. I received several questions this month from people that so very much want to get in shape, but feel lost in regard to their exercise program.

     Realizing that you may not have the knowledge to reach your goal is a BIG step, and I am an advocate of one educating them self on as many health related topics as possible. HOWEVER; and staying in the mind set of education, there is so very much knowledge out there about getting in shape that one can and often does end up more confused. That being said, and in wanting to offer a solution I want to focus on one having a “tutor” in the gym. Yes, it has been established that often times one will buy the latest piece of “get in shape quick” machinery, and after a month, two at the most, of use, these machines become expensive clothes racks.

     In purchasing a piece of home equipment one feels the emotional pull to use it as there is money invested, in most cases, A LOT. In the past gyms or health clubs were viewed as a non supportive environment, an intimidating arena of individuals that are just “born” in shape. The good news is? Times have changed! Health clubs have turned into, evolved into, a complete support system for one wanting to achieve a health and fitness goal! There are just as many people there that do not have all the answers.

     Getting through the door can be the biggest step as one looks in and sees all of the equipment and people, but again I ask that all do their best to view this as a support system. Once inside, coaching or shepherding one through the process is so important. Having staffed health clubs for years with personal trainers, and early in my career having focused primarily on training clients I cannot convey how rewarding and awesome the process is when one trusts you to help them reach their goal!

 

The Challenge

     I have heard all of the excuses, and I did not earn the nick name, “The MACHINE”, by allowing excuses to stop people from achieving health and happiness.

 

     At this time of the year most will justify getting out of shape during the holidays in order to justify making yet another New Year’s Resolution. Another year of promising oneself what they are going to do should do…etc.

     I am challenging everyone to reprogram, and before the Holidays even get into full swing tell yourself it is time to be proactive! Make the choice today that making excuses for being out of shape has got to stop!

     You do not have to be an expert! All you must do is be willing to take up the following challenge:

     Email me your story. Yes, I am asking you to contact me regarding your journey thus far, and how you may need a “tutor”; more appropriate a guide in helping lead you to happiness. The happiness that comes with feeling confident in the way one looks, and in the knowledge that they are indeed healthier. What am I going to do with these stories? First of all I am going to have one of the arsenal as I put it, specifically the great team of trainers I know contact you in order to help you better understand how we, as a TEAM, can get through the holidays without falling further out of shape. Then, I am going to choose one of those participants, and provide a complete program that will get you in the BEST SHAPE OF YOUR LIFE!…

     Right now? All I am asking is the investment of your time in conveying your story to me. We will choose a winner right after the New Year based on those stories that came to us through November and December. You may email your bio’s to: mat.duvall@ultrafittrainer.com. Please do not hesitate as I want to get as many involved as possible. Next month I will cover more detail as we approach the New Year.

     There you have it, a simple challenge that could in fact change the rest of your life! Until next month…and always…

CREATE A POWERFUL DAY!

*Mat DuVall is a Professional Athlete and member of the International federation of bodybuilding. Mat’s articles have been published both nationally and internationally. Mat is tHE Chief operating officer of Ultra FIT LLC; Recently having partnered exclusively with American Bodyworks. You may email your questions to Mat.DuVall@ultrafittrainer.com!

BALANCE: THE FIRST STEP TO GETTING IN SHAPE (cont’d)

          Question: Mat, I have exercised on and off most of my adult life; as well as “trying” near to every “fad” Diet ever written. Now, approaching 40 years of age I am finding it harder to figure out the “how to’s” of staying in shape?

     This article is a continuation from last month’s question re stated above. In closing the last article I promised to address the most important component of getting well, healthy and FIT!

 

A QUALITY NUTRITION PROGRAM

 

     Too many times someone that is new to resistance training will assume that so long as they are in the weight room performing some type of resistance based routines, or just doing cardiovascular work that they will just be ok. In order to achieve a maximum result one must understand that when they are in the gym they are doing the work that breaks the body down. YES, EMPHATICALLY, this step is important, but from there, and once out of the gym and at home the process cannot stop.

 

     I understand the confusion when one is looking at all the “diets” that exist in this day and age. This being the reason that I explain to all new clients, affectionately called, “little machines”, that it requires a complete change of lifestyle. What is the first thing one must avoid? Carbohydrates? NO! Protein? NO! The American Medical Association finally labeled what we should first avoid, EXCESS SODIUM.

 

     Too many Americans today are consuming a daily intake of way too much sodium. One may be eating a lean cut of meat, fish or even chicken, but then they proceed to cover that healthy food with a high sodium based sauce. Then, of course there are those that resort to the good ole’ salt shaker! It may take as long as 4-5 days, but once a client, (little machine) is off of excess sodium, they will get past the “withdrawal” of not having those sauces and salt based products that are silently killing them. Those with questions about sodium and daily intake may of course email me, but in a spare moment, google© request (www.google.com), “sodium, the silent killer”. You will be amazed at the blogs, articles and nutritional studies pointing to sodium as the element most to blame for a host of medical problems, most of which is heart disease.

 

     So what do you do? First, let’s continue to “crawl” and address the three most important aspects of starting a nutrition program:

 

1.      How many meals a day am I consuming?

2.      How much time is between each of these meals?

3.      How much of the following am I consuming?

 

o   Protein

o   Carbohydrates

o   Fats

 

     It is not always just what one is eating when getting them to the starting line with a nutrition program; it is in most cases how much that new client is NOT EATING!

 

     When starting out clients tend to completely miss breakfast, opting for the “office breakfast” of coffee and a bagel, or the “drive thru” breakfast which I do not even want to talk about this month! Breakfast, a quality breakfast is the most important meal of the day! How can we expect to “start” the day with no fuel or quality fuel to run on? In an effort to speed up the metabolism one should follow that breakfast with several more quality meals throughout the day.

 

     Once you have committed to eating those meals that are necessary to feed your metabolism, you must establish when you are supposed to eat them. Timing is everything in this process. One must train the metabolism to feed them through the day; not only at times or points during the day.

 

     The “how much” questions is what most puzzles a lot of clients. Yes, you must consume the key nutrients that your body must have. Too many of one, or not enough of another will either keep you from your goal, or at a minimum slow the process down a lot. The tricky part is that all of us are different, with different strengths and limitations. This is again where I point to that need for a guide in your reaching your health and fitness goals.

 

     Ok, we have reached the end of another article, but I encourage you to continue sending your questions! I enjoy hearing from each of you and love hearing your success stories in regard to your personal health and fitness goals! Next month we will continue our journey and explanation of “balancing” out our lives as we work toward a happier, healthier YOU!

 

     Remember, each and every day to CREATE A POWERFUL DAY!

 

*Mat DuVall is a Professional Athlete and member of the International federation of bodybuilding. Mat’s articles have been published both nationally and internationally. Mat is tHE Chief operating officer of Ultra FIT LLC; Recently having partnered exclusively with American Bodyworks. You may email your questions to MAT.DUVALL@ULTRAFITTRAINER.COM!

BALANCE: THE FIRST STEP TO GETTING IN SHAPE (Part 1)

Question: Mat, I have exercised on and off most of my adult life; as well as “trying” near to every “fad” Diet ever written. Now, approaching 40 years of age I am finding it harder to figure out the “how to’s” of staying in shape?

This question went on to ask about different forms of exercise and the many ways one can either “starve” or reduce key nutrients in order to “get in shape”.

 

     The first thing I teach a client is that this process requires one to crawl before they walk, and walk before they run.

 

     Now, tackling in this article the “crawl” phase in our journey to optimal health and fitness, we will define the first steps. At some stage we have to more so empower the mind set of living well, being truly healthy. This is not only a physical process, but instead one that encompasses mind, body and spirit. In not wanting to get ahead we are going to stick in this article to the BODY.

 

     A resistance based training routine at a minimum would require 3 training sessions a week. These training sessions could be 30 minutes to a full 60 minutes long depending on one’s training experience. In that 30 to 60 minute time period we are aiming to challenge the body with a resistance routine that works with your individual strengths and limitations; while observing enough time for cardiovascular training. These resistance training sessions should break the body up into three well defined, pre planned training sessions. In “building” the ultimate “Machine”…you must have a plan. Simply walking into the weight room and bouncing from machine to machine, trying to figure out each one’s purpose will get you nowhere fast! I have observed over the years person after person that jumped around the weight room with no flow whatsoever. Having a routine developed that divides your body into training sessions that allow one area to recuperate while working the other is essential. An example of that layout may be:

 

·         Day One- Upper body Circuit Training

·         Day Two- Lower body Circuit Training

·         Day Three- Whole Body Interval training routine

  

    Remember in the beginning we are “crawling”. Three days is more than sufficient in getting you started, and NO we do not NEED to do MORE…YET.

 

     Next time I am going to continue on the BODY and the ABSOLUTE must of a balanced, proven, results based nutrition program. I do not use the word, “DIET”. This points to something temporary, and our goal in building the perfect “Machine” is a change in LIFESTYLE. As we age we must make sure that our bodies or “Machine” be fueled proper. We cannot simply starve off those unwanted pounds and inches! I have heard time and time again, “When I was 18…” simply stated to those? YOU ARE NOT 18 anymore!  And as a child or young adult you were probably not completely aware of being healthy. At those stages in life we become consumed with simply appearing fit, even if and when it meant not “feeling” so well.

 

     Until next time keep in mind that we get one body to work with through life. Time is precious, and wasting time on fad diets, and potentially dangerous drugs is not the path to balance that we seek as HEALTH MINDED INDIVIDUALS.  Be well, and CREATE A POWERFUL DAY!

 

*Mat DuVall is a Professional Athlete and member of the International federation of bodybuilding. Mat’s articles have been published both nationally and internationally. Mat is the Chief operating officer of Ultra FIT LLC; Recently having partnered exclusively with American Bodyworks.

STARTING A PATH TO YOUR PERSONAL BEST

Yes, you can start on that path today; however before moving forward please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Mat DuVall, Mr. America, Co- owner of Ultra FIT! We have partnered with American Bodyworks in order to deliver the most results oriented program in the country to the Metro Atlanta area. Please, through the pages of this publication, consider me your new personal trainer!

     I receive questions on a daily basis from people that are confused about, “How to get in shape?!” We now not only see countless infommercials and television shows on the “best” ways to get in shape, but with the internet there is enough information to make your head spin! My advice day to day, and for years now has been, “Keep it simple!” Simply put, it requires a concept that we utilize everyday to empower those seeking to achieve their personal best! The team concept:

T- Challenging, result oriented training

E- Educating one’s self on a quality, proven nutrition system

A – Accountability- knowing that you are accountable for each goal you set!

M – Staying motivated!

     Ok, allow me to unpack each letter and what it stands for. Many have tried, and continue to believe they can simply “walk off” their excess weight. How many hours have you labored on a treadmill or walking outdoors only to find at the end of a month you may have dropped 2-3 pounds if you are lucky? The Body must be challenged with resistance training! In doing so one is forcing their metabolism to work like never before. Stimulating muscle tissue is the single most effective way to burn excess calories; leading to the loss of unwanted weight.

     Education? in a gym? yes! educating one’s self on how to use the equipment is step one, but most important in reaching your personal best is learning about the nutrtional lifestyle changes that will get you to and keep you at that goal!

Accountability, simply put is utilizing a quality support system! We all need it at some point in life. Being out there alone, trying to conquer a weight problem is never fun. When one is held accountable with daily positive affirmation and support at the place they train, it makes realizing that goal a group or, team effort!

     Staying motivated is not always easy, but made easier when one is willing to train toward their goal, learn about the process it takes to get their body there, and willing to be accountable for their actions in achieving that goal.

        I know it all sounds elementary, but these answers are best found with solid direction. Results speak for themselves. It has been said that, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. I agree, but lean even more to the mental image one has of themselves, and how they want to improve that image?

     Allow me, your new Personal trainer to help you. Please forward questions to the following: mat.duvall@ultrafittrainer.com.  We will choose one question monthly to address with you the readers. Be well, and create a positive day!

 

*Mat DuVall is a Professional Athlete and member of the International federation of bodybuilding. Mat’s articles have been published both nationally and internationally. Mat is the co-owner and Chief operating officer of Ultra FIT LLC; Recently having partnered exclusively with American Bodyworks.