Meet my trainer

Over the past few years, I have lost a considerable amount of weight. I have talked previously about the lifestyle changes I made, but given you all repeatedly asked what exercise I was doing, I thought I should elaborate.

I told those who emailed what I will tell you.. I lead a generally active lifestyle. I am fortunate that I am not chained to a desk in a corporate environment and I make an effort to take the stairs, or walk with friends when I can. I am sure those closest to me would probably say that I run at a pretty high frequency but I just can’t credit exercise for my physical change.

That said, I understand the importance of exercise for your health and felt it was time to physically and figuratively, lift. Insert: Benny Lucas.

Upon returning to Australia last December, I ran into Benny, the brains behind Flow Athletic in Paddington. We had crossed paths before but never worked together and I has been keen to hear his philosophy. He has trained friends, including Kate Waterhouse, with insane results and glowing reviews.

We set about training together (in the midst of silly season, no less) and between weights, it became apparent that Benny and I share a similar philosophy. We believe in moderation, self love (I know, I know – lame, but it’s important), and doing what you can. Small adjustments that make a huge difference long term.

Benny had, no sorry HAS, me excited about exercise again. I look forward to every session and I love that he pushes me to my limit, he makes me want to do better and he teaches me how to train for my lifestyle.

Without further delay, I want to introduce Benny and share a greater insight into his philosophy.

(FYI – We will also work towards sharing with you a short workout that you, too, can do from your bedroom, gym or from a hotel… Watch this space.)

“Steady, consistent losses for long term results” – Benny Lucas. 

How would you describe your health philosophy (in an inspiring fashion, if possible.. feel free to throw around a few quotes)?
I look at the components of a healthy lifestyle as a reward, not a punishment. Any time I get to exercise, eat well, hydrate and meditate is a blessing and ultimately, sets the foundation for the rest of my life. Exercise and eating clean makes me feel great mentally, makes me a better boss, husband and friend. I don’t concentrate as much as the aesthetics of a healthy life as much as how it makes me feel.

I can go months, even years without weighing myself. But I am inside my head everyday and I know the 3 things I need to do to make that feel good:

1. Get a good sleep
2. Exercise
3. Eat clean

I want my clients to love our training sessions, not fear them. Im not the type of trainer that takes pride in making a client throw up or be sore for days. I want them to enjoy exercise and the benefits of eating healthy.

I would say that hydrating was the easiest, and most effective change that assisted in my improved health and overall weight loss. What is the easiest thing you feel one can do, to affect the greatest change?
Schedule exercise as an appointment in your diary just as you would a meeting. You wouldn’t blow off your boss or your friend. Well, don’t skip the important appointment with yourself.

Benny, what is the number one mistake you see in people trying to lose weight? 
Thinking that they have to lose all the weight in the first week! By cutting your calories drastically, or increasing your exercise to unsustainable levels, you are setting yourself up for failure. Steady, consistent losses for long term results.

I believe in over-training. How often should one aim to train, weekly… realistically?
This depends on what you are doing and where you are at on your journey. But honestly I think people should exercise 5-6 times a week. This shouldn’t be all intense training. Include yoga and walking, as well as the higher intensity stuff. Just move you body constantly. Your brain will thank you!

How important is diet vs exercise when getting fit, healthy and trying to lose weight?
+ Weight loss is 70 % nutrition 30 % exercise
+ Fitness is 70% exercise 30 % nutrition
= And Health is 100% of both.

What impact do you feel the mind has on the body?
The mind has an enormous impact when it comes to your body. How you feel about yourself will dictate how you treat yourself. Are you going to punish yourself with poor nutrition or reward yourself with nourishing food and movement which will make you feel better? My body has never felt better since I have treated my mind better. I haven’t had a drink in 3 years, I meditate daily, read at least 30 min everyday and get 7 hours sleep consistently. As a result, I feel amazing every day.

What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start, but just doesn’t quite know how to? 
Arthur Ashe the USA former #1 tennis player has a quote;

‘Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can’

Essentially everybody knows what to do but they put to many obstacles in the way of getting started. You need to eat less and move more.

“But I need new gym clothes.. I’ll start next week after the party I have on the weekend.. I can’t afford to eat healthy at the moment… “I hear many of these bullshit excuses every week.

Go for a walk today. Have an alcohol free week. Only have one coffee today. Have a smaller portion for dinners. Easy steps that compound that you can start NOW!

Shot by Chris Mohen at Flow Athletic, Paddington. 
Styled with thanks to Stylerunner.

Look 1
Tank | JAGGAD
Shorts | Nike

Look 2
Long Sleeve Top | Huegill Bodytech
Compression Long Tight | Huegill Bodytech

Look 3
Tank | Under the Same Sun
Compression Tights | 2XU