The word diet comes from the Greek, meaning "way of life" The Vegetarians are a good example. The word vegetarian comes from the Latin to be lively and vigorous.Their early beginnings identified diet was only a part of living a healthy life. Naturist place an importance on being relieved of the burden of clothes and enjoying outdoor sports and activities, very Paleo. So what am I saying. Those who know me will know I am not a big fan of the diet, supplement or nutrition industry. It full of BS and self serving quacks. This too applies to aspects of the fitness industry.
I recently bumped into a friend at work. He is a qualified PTI with a services back ground. We got talking about our own training and diet and got to comparing notes. He has recently come on board the good ship Crossfit and has been looking at the zone diet and other low starchy carbohydrate options. He has recently been working with a colleague looking to get fitter and lose some weight. They will not mind if I describe them both as old school. So diet was not high on the list of things to change, at least not radically. So maybe cut out some alcohol, snacks and puddings but increase the aerobic training particularly pounding the pavement. Now most will see some results especially if you are new to exercise. The body has an amazing way of responding to such early stimulus. However they both have an extensive background in being and staying fit. So were a little surprised to find that they were not getting the results they wanted and expected.
A review led to some research and Crossfit and Zone/Paleo were discovered. A short stint on a low starchy carbohydrate diet after a period of adjustment led to some very encouraging results. Energy levels changed for the better and the excess weight soon shifted. It was even discovered that the time in the gym could be reduced and the same results could still be enjoyed.
Their experiences have led me to review my diet. I believe I have hit a time in my life where I cannot rely on just good genetics to save me from my excesses. And I do like my excesses! Since summer 2011 I have noticed changes. Its no coincidence to say I have also changed jobs, moved in with my girlfriend and spend less time in the gym. But I have experienced phases like this before and not paid dearly for it, alas no longer. Diet IS a massive part of my wellness now so it was with some relief when Andrew of Crossfit London UK organised the 40 day Zone/Paleo Lent Challenge. This was my chance to hold hands with other passengers and soak up the shared experience and make changes.
I will being trying my utmost to be strict Paleo'. Has it got a face? Zoneing is too much hassle in my eyes, I don't even own a cup! I even considered doing one meal a day with snacks either side apparently this would have been normalish, but the odd day of no food was also normal! So instead I am going to eat small and regular but ultimately clean. Dairy, tea and Guinness will be missed but its only 40 days! I will be posting regularly on Crossfit London UK and also by twitter @Spikeyfruit. My girlfriend is also joining in so I am excited about that. But we will declare the 25th February as an amnesty, its her birthday party.
By the end we hope to have a great opensource resource of recipes, answers, experiences and results, both good and bad. Now I am off to gather some firewood. But first some pancakes.
