Coach Q and A: Low carb or low fat diets for p90x or Insanity

As a Beachbody Coach, I'm often asked questions about P90X or other programs. JC sent me a couple of questions about the Insanity workout program, but I'm sharing the answer with you because it applies to any fitness program you choose.

JC-
The low carb diets tend to help people lose weight more quickly.  But they are hard to stick with.  Balanced low-fat diets catch up at about 6 months, and by the end of a year, there is no difference in weight loss between low carb and low fat diets.  

So I'd recommend starting with the low carb diet for a jump-start.  Then if you want to transition to the Balanced slim-down plan after a month or so, that would be reasonable.  If you find you don't have enough energy and are dragging through your day, then switch to the balanced diet sooner.  If you still find yourself dragging, then up your calorie consumption by about 200 per day. 

Other issues:

It sounds like you have thought a little bit about why you want to get back in shape.  I you to think about it more specifically.  You want to be healthy for your family.  Why?  Maybe it is to set a good, helathy example for your kids to learn form.  Maybe to better keep up with and play with them as they grow.  Maybe to live long and healthy so you can help your kis with THEIR kids someday.  Whatever it is, keep asking yourself why to get to the root, emotional reason.  Then write it all down longhand.  Studies have shown that this helps people stick with goals. 

When you figure it out, make sure your family and friends ore on board.  You'll be making a lifestyle change and sometimes loved ones have an hard time with that.  Let them know why it is important to you and ask for their support. 

Also, use peer pressure to your advantage!  Consider telling everyone what you are dooing and tell them you'll be giving them updates every 30 days.  This is uncomfortable, but if you do it, it woll be very powerful. When you think about a bowl of ice cream, you'll remember that you have to update everyone next week, and it can give you a great extra push to make the right decisions!

Lastly, don't forget to take your before pictures and measurements.  You don't need to show anyone, but trust me, you'll want them once you start to lose weight!  They are a great motivator and a great way to see your progress.  You'll be super proud to show them off when you are back to you college weight!!  But you anly get one chance to take a before picture. 

Let's keep in touch.  I'd like to hear from you once a week with how many workouts you got in and how your eating plan and wieght loss is going.

I've seen tons of success stories over the last few years with Beachbody.  I want you to be the next one!  With your background- you have been an elite athlete before so I know you are not afraid of hard work or discipline- you will succeed.

Gotta run

Kevin
Star-Diamond Team Beachbody Coach