A Personal Trainer's Best Tips for Breaking out of Homeostasis

Breaking out of homeostasis is a skill everyone who works out needs to learn

Breaking out of homeostasis is critical if you want to maximize your fitness results. The word "homeostasis" probably brings back vague, possibly unpleasant memories of biology class in high school, but it's one of the most important words to know when it comes to improving your fitness, and particularly your body weight.

Homeostasis, in simplistic terms, refers to the fact that the body is in a state where it is not changing. Many people forget that it actually takes significant upkeep just to prevent your body from becoming worse in form and function as we age. So, if you are managing to accomplish homeostasis and staying the same, in some ways you are already winning!

However, we humans are rarely satisfied with staying the same. Because the body tends to resist change, we need to "shock the system" a bit in order to induce change. Here are some effective ways to do that.

How to "Shock the System" to Induce Change

It's important to note that you certainly don't need to do all of these things to create change. One or two of these tips done consistently should be enough!

1. Pick a meal to "tighten up." Be sure to do it every day. What do we mean by tighten up? We mean make it as healthy as you can. Most people find that breakfast is the easiest meal to do this. Be sure your breakfast contains some good quality protein and healthy fats to give you staying power. An omelette made with spinach is a great choice, as is greek yogurt with fruit.

2. Increase the amount of time and/or intensity of your current exercise routine. If you are stuck in a rut, by definition you must change something. A new class or workout buddy may be just what you need to shake things up. Doing the same workout over and over will not allow you to progress in your fitness over time.

3. Get to bed earlier. The closer you can get to 8 hours of sleep, the better you will perform during your workouts, and the better control you will have when it comes to making good food choices. When your body is asking for sugar, it just may need sleep! Never underestimate the power of sleep.

4. Limit alcohol and sugar. Both of these substances increase your caloric intake and can lead to additional poor food choices, in addition to causing fatigue and lethargic performances during your workout. They can also make you sick when taken to excess. Remember, it doesn't have to be forever, but take note of how you feel when you cut back.

I hope these tips about breaking out of homeostasis to affect fitness change were helpful. If you would like more guidance, you can check out our Home Bodies Personal Training Services.