If you have been around personal trainers, fitness coaches, gym owners, bikini competitors, or any other fitness fanatics, you have probably heard the words “intermittent fasting.” If not, you will definitely learn about it here, at Jungle Fitness in Orange County, from one of our fitness professionals. This is because intermittent fasting has been around the athletic world for decades and remains a constant buzz word. It is an easy and effective way to lose fat and gain lean muscles!

By definition, intermittent fasting is a pattern of consuming foods only during specific times in the day. Usually, these eating times are spread out with a large chunk of fasting time in between. Unlike a diet, during intermittent fasting it not common to limit foods. You must only limit the times in which you consume foods. The most popular schedule is fasting (not consuming any foods) for 16 hours and consuming two large meals in 8 hours. It is also common to fast for 24 hours, once or twice a week.

If you are looking to incorporate intermittent fasting into your fitness journey, please continue reading! The following are some tips that will guide you along to get the best results!

1. Don’t jump into it.
   You should start slowly and gradually work your way to fasting up to 18 to 24 hours a day. Try adjusting regular meal times first, then skip a meal here and there. This will help ensure your success in the long run. Slow is smooth, smooth is fast!
2. Results come with time.
   Bikini bods don’t happen overnight. Your fitness journey is all about commitment because it takes time to see results. Intermittent fasting is no different. Keep with it and eventually you will see an undeniable effect on your physique.
3. Stay hydrated.
   You should be drinking water regularly throughout the day regardless. However, during fasting, drinking more water can be a tool that you can use to stifle your hunger! Curb your hunger with more liquids to keep on track.
4. Keep your nutrition level up.
   You get the freedom to consume whatever you want during intermittent fasting, however remain conscious of what you are consuming! You’re not on a diet so you don’t have to eat a kale salad. I would encourage you to eat what you love! In moderations, of course. Most importantly, make sure you are getting all your nutrition through vitamins and supplements.
5. Don’t go overboard with exercise.
   Remember that your body is adjusting, also. Overworking your body may put you at a disadvantage and set you back in your fitness journey. Listen to your body and to its cues. Try doing a fasted walk on the treadmill in the mornings just to clear your mind! 

Please, remember to consult one of our Bootcamp Orange County fitness trainers before starting or stopping any kind of eating schedule, as they will be able to guide you to the healthiest options. Also, if you are anywhere near Irvine, California, come check us out! Jungle Fitness Orange County.