Alcohol, the weekend warrior’s golden elixir. Since the beginning of time, the same question has always remained: can you drink and remain in shape?
Just like any good fitness related answer, it depends. But instead of telling you what to do, we would rather provide you with the tools to form your own decision.
In a nutshell, drinking is not good for you. But accountability always prevails. If you enjoy a drink or two (note: I said a drink or two, not a drink or ten), then I see no reason against including that as part of your nutritional strategy.
However, you do need to remain realistic with your goals. If you plan to step on a bodybuilding stage and you are going through prep, then drinking is not advised. If you want to get in better shape and be able to enjoy a drink or two at the end of the day or on the weekend, then you may be a suitable candidate. But can you stick to just one or two drinks or will that turn into ten?
There are also times where it is simply unavoidable, for example, a family member’s wedding or a friend’s birthday night out on the weekend. What do you do? Well you can follow the nutritional strategies outlined in the previous article. And you can become a little more aware of the calorie content of your beverage of choice.
Drinking tip 1 – Plan ahead. If you know something is coming up, then adjust your calories for the days surrounding. Remain accountable.
Drinking tip 2 – Mixers and cocktails are the mother of all calories. Coca-cola? Make that a diet. Pina Colada? Tastes nice but that is an easy 500+ calories.
Drinking tip 3 – Drink responsibly. Enjoying yourself does not have to be at the expense of others.
Drinking tip 4 – Hydrate when the night is over. You will thank yourself in the morning.
Alcohol does not need to be avoided if you do not want to avoid it. But it certainly can hinder progress if not managed.