Training & Nutrition - A look at the 80/20 method.

Beginning a new training program and the 80 / 20

When starting off your fitness journey with a personal trainer it can often feel overwhelming. Beginning weight training, warmups, stretching, and more. There's also adjusting your body to a calorie amount based on your goal. If you have a goal of dropping body fat, then a calorie deficit is most likely your goal - burning more calories than consuming. That said, it can be difficult to adjust your eating habits when it comes to cravings. This is why a few of us at SoFit follow the 80/20 rule.

What is the 80/20 rule?

This rule is actually based on an economic rule known as the Pareto Principle. The principle states how 80% of outputs will derive from 20% of inputs. This suggests that 80% of your meals will consist of nutrition dense foods such as whole foods (fruits, vegetables, lean meats, etc.), whereas the other 20% of your meals will consist of your cravings such as muffins or pizza. The purpose of this approach is to prevent overconsumption on cravings such as cookies or ice cream. Not only that, but it creates less stress when knowing that you don’t have to cut out your favorite comfort foods.

Overall, the 80/20 rule is a great way to start a calorie deficit if you have never been on one before. Personal trainers Tommy and Tina apply the 80/20 rule to meals because it allows them to maintain energy throughout my day. This also satisfies cravings when they experience them. Not only that, but this rule is very flexible. For instance, the 80/20 rule could be having a small dessert every night or having fast food every other week.

Despite this rule having its benefits, it may not work for everyone. Some may be able to follow this rule, whereas others may experience decision fatigue. Not only that, but the rule doesn’t take into consideration factors such as stress or sleeping habits. This is why we recommend having a coach help with your journey, or having an accountability buddy. Bottom line, the 80/20 rule is great when it comes to wanting to maintain a healthy foundation with nutritious foods while also satisfying your cravings.