I'm basically a reformed couch potato, my metabolism was generally fast enough to keep me from getting too fat, but now that I'm in my 30's i'm getting fat, here's the thing, I havn't got a clue....

I joined a gym got a trainer, but i don't really understand anything for instance: what the hell is cutting and bulking?

Is there like some magic FAQ somewhere for us newbies to fitness training?


Tkns

Rob Findlay

cutting = reducing bodyfat (but usually with some degree of LBM loss)
bulking = increasing LBM (but usually with some fat gain)

both depend on manipulating diet and exercise. I am cutting now by reducing calories and focusing more on cardio.

oh and LBM = lean body mass = your weight minus the fat = pure badass muscle :)

Check out the stickies in the forum each of which explains certain aspects of training rather well. Also, read people's journals and see what approach they are taking. Also make good use of the search function in the forum when you have enquires (as most Qs have already been asked before). Its all about learning as much as you can and participating in the forum discussions. :tucool:

"Good things don't come freely in life, you need to earn the things you want."

I'm saying this because you stated that you were a couch potato, so I think you need to change this habit, step by step... Start small, maybe by doing some research in this forum. Look at John for motivation, it just proves that nothing is impossible in life if you really eant it bad enough. Oh, and by the way, sitting in front of the TV and eating some chips or other junk food is the best way to gain fat... better avoid it, good luck :D

Oh and last but not least, your still believing in some myth, not just because you've reach 30, your metabolism drasticly drops down, it's actually a long process of your muscle vanishing. So the best way to get that metabolism fast again is by eating small meals and weight-training, remember, no magic FAQ, better yet, no magic pills.