Before Christmas lunch
Small steps for big holiday meals
For years, before big holiday meals throughout the year, I've been doing 45 intense minutes of spinning.
From all estimates, 45 intense minutes won't burn more than 450 calories.
Just as a comparison, if I walk at a speed of 6 km/h, I won't burn more than 300 calories in 60 min.
We're talking here about someone who has a decent leg muscle mass and who constantly does exercise (me).
✅ LIFE INSURANCE
This year, before the spinning workout, I also paid my “life insurance” premium.
A lighter version with only one exercise per day for beginners in my Weightless program can be found here: CLICK.
Let's say I did about 30 minutes of weight training and 45 minutes of spinning.
I most likely burned a maximum of 600 calories. After that, I had a large 200g slice of pistachio babka and I immediately added 1,000 calories right back.
I worked out for 1h15’ only to put everything right back in place (and then some) in only 3 minutes.
That’s why exercising can never correct an inadequate diet.
From a calorie economics perspective, gains from exercising are trivial.
✅ WHY SPINNING?
Why do I take a Spinning class before festive meals?
So I can increase muscle sensitivity to the effect of insulin. And also make some more room for food.
I also noticed that after a HIIT session my appetite somehow decreases and the dopamine surge I get after training helps me eat less.
Yes, I have a Spinning bike. I bought it during the pandemic from a gym that was going out of business.
I admit: that Spinning bike is just an expensive clothes hanger. I only use it 3-4 times a year…
✅ PERSONAL ENERGY MANAGEMENT
I normally walk. I also ride my bike when I pick up the kids from school.
I do my “life insurance” exercises when I get the chance.
I also don't have much energy (or time) left for HIIT workouts.
I don't have the time I had in my 30s, nor the recovery capacity of my 20s.
In addition, HIIT workouts are like a kind of a fun mish-mash that neither helps you lose weight nor build muscle. (More on that in another article)
✅ SEASON’S GREETINGS
To conclude, I wish you Happy Holidays and to enjoy a nice holiday feast, without the need to take any stomach medicine or to call the emergency services.
✅ I AM GRATEFUL
I believe that in 2024, after our time, it’s out attention that is the most precious resource.
When you see the words “Thank your for your attention” at the end of an article, just know they’re not just empty words.
So, I am grateful that you took the time to follow the Body Engineering Substack and thank you for your attention.