Alcohol and Fitness

It turns out for most guys cutting out that beer after work with the co-workers can be much more difficult than cutting out junk food. What does this mean for your overall fitness goals?

Well, beer and alcohol in general are not only loaded with useless calories, but also lower your body's ability to produce muscle and burn fat. That's right, your testosterone production and natural growth hormones are hindered for at least 24hrs after a long night out with the guys. This is especially why men develop those glorious "beer bellies".

In fact, alcohol not only hinders your bodies ability to develop muscle, it also weakens your immune system and lowers your endurance. That is why for any athlete, it is key to stay away from alcohol while training. Drinking too much alcohol, over time, can cause a man to develop breasts and accumulate a lot of extra fat around the mid-section (male pattern weight gain).



So what is the key if you do have a hard night out with the guys? First off you need to rehydrate (why am I so thirsty today when I drank so much last night). Extra water helps cleanse your system. Next, get back in the gym ASAP! This is where most guys fall off the wagon, it is very difficult to lift or exercise when you head is pounding. Perhaps most importantly is DO NOT fall into the trap of eating tons of greasy and fatty foods - they do not cure hangovers. Those fatty foods just add extra calories and fat that your body turns into a glorious beer belly.

My suggestion is to avoid alcohol all together if you are an athlete in training and to only use in moderation otherwise. If you do overindulge, remember to get back on the sattle and keep your diet on track. Stay in the gym and do not let one night ruin your whole routine. Good luck!