5 Great Reasons Lent Is Good For Your Fitness & Performance

So for the next little while I'm going without alcohol, candy or treats. This might seem like an obvious thing for someone is this line of work. But the truth is it's usually fitness professionals who enjoy the biggest cheat days and splurge the most when it comes to food and drink. Case in point last August I registered our summer intern and I for a pub crawl while at a conference in Long Beach. But back to the story. I'm not going to have any chocolate, candy, popcorn, wine, beer or alcohol of any type until Easter. This all started last Wednesday and goes for 40 days until April 8, which is Easter Sunday. Now while this might be a Catholic tradition you don't have to be of this faith, or any faith for that matter, to participate. All you need to do is pick things that are treats for you and you go cold turkey for the next 40 days. Think of all the things you could give up for the next 40 days which don't add to your health and performance. Besides the ones I've listed you could also add: * smoking * watching tv * checking your facebook profile * going to movies * watching your favourite tv shows But you don't have the limit this experience to only giving things up. Although, I always recommend eliminating a negative makes more sense before you look to add a positive. So if you don't have a sweet tooth or enjoy a cold one while at the hockey game maybe it makes more sense to add some positives to your life for the next 40 days. Some examples would be: * go for a walk after dinner * walk or bike to work - the weather is getting better for this * eat more green leafy vegetables * drink more water * get more sleep * add one more workout per week to your routine Plus there are lots more you could add to this list. Take an honest look at your health and fitness and see where you could add something to get you to the next level. And lastly here are 5 great reasons to do better for the next 40 days. 1. Endpoint in Sight April 8 can be marked on your calendar. The start will feel slow. Then you will get used to the sacrifices you've made. And it gets easier as you go. 2. Strength in Numbers It's always easier to make a sacrifice as a group. For example, in training there is an expression that 'no one conditions alone'. Somehow when we know others are going through a similar experience it makes it easier to tough it out. 3. Great Rx for Colds Have you noticed how many people are sick the last week or so? We're definitely going through a cold/flu season. What better way to get over a cold or flu by eliminating crappy food & drink and trying to get more rest. 4. Launch Pad for Summer The days are getting longer. Driving ranges are about to open. Thoughts are moving towards summer plans and activities. And summer means warmer weather and less clothing. This is a great way to drop the few extra winter pounds you've been carrying and tone up for the summer season. 5. Establishes Better Habits Guess what happens when you do something for 40 days in a row? It becomes a lot easier to continue. Sure you can indulge from time to time. But your favourite fast food won't taste as good. You won't long for popcorn when you go to the movies. And your new healthier way of life becomes second nature. Even if you  missed the official start to Lent last Wednesday don't sweat it. Look to see what isn't bringing you closer to your health and fitness goals and give it up until Easter. Imagine the gains you'll make. Chris                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  okanaganpeakperformance.com