Yes, you read that right… I love pizza.
If I had to choose one food on which to survive forever, that delicious slab of dough, topped with tomato sauce and cheese, would be my definite choice. The only thing better than pizza for dinner, is leftover pizza for breakfast. In the absence of any in-person gatherings over the recent holiday season, I seized the opportunity (and lifelong aspiration) to forego the turkey and stuffing and, you guessed it… I ordered pizza for Christmas dinner. It was glorious.
Enjoying pizza wouldn’t normally be considered anything too controversial. However, as a health & fitness expert, it seems that expectations regarding my choices and behaviours are different. Common perception is that those who work in the fitness industry make the healthiest choice all of the time. Before I started working as a Personal Trainer and Group Fitness instructor, I believed the same thing – that fitness coaches spend their whole day working out (both with and without their clients) and only eat ‘clean’ foods (or don’t eat at all). That’s why they all look so tight and toned, and moonlight as superheroes in their spare time.
As I’ve gained experience and become (slightly) wiser, I’ve learned that fitness experts are mostly human after all. Unless they are temporarily following a very strict training regimen for a competitive event, fitness professionals enjoy a variety of food and beverage options, just like everyone else.
Personally, I do enjoy fruits and vegetables and consume them on a regular basis but I also enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter’s day or a burger with fries if I’m catching a game at a nearby sports bar.
Whether you are a competitive athlete or a self-proclaimed couch potato, the key to your long term health is balance. Nutritional requirements vary greatly from person to person. Your age, gender, activity levels, genetics, lifestyle, stress levels, and sleep quality can all have an effect on how much and what you need to eat. I always recommend seeking the advice of a registered dietician if you are looking for specific guidance but as a rule of thumb, aim to make the healthy choice around 80% of the time. In the long term, consistency is more important than perfection and yes, there is room in your life to enjoy that pizza.
Tips of the day
- Eat mindfully. Slow down and enjoy each bite or sip of what you’re consuming.
- Aim for balance – consistency is more important than perfection.
- Pineapple is the best topping on a pizza.
Kathryn McKenzie – B.H.Kin, B.Ed / Certified Kinesiologist, Sport Conditioning Specialist & Personal Trainer & Author, Speaker & Owner of Surefire Fitness Phone: 204-802-3131
