#FitU with Phindi Gule: 'How to enjoy alcohol and still reach your fitness goals'

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Of course, it’s about balance, and following a strict eating plan simply isn’t always sustainable.

However, a tricky point for many people trying to reach their fitness goals is alcohol - it’s often referred to as “empty calories” due to the fact that it provides seven calories per gram (compared to protein and carbs at four calories per gram and fat at nine) and has no other nutritional value, but we live in a world where most social engagements revolve around booze.

No one wants to give up their social life, but it’s a sad fact that if you’re drinking every day of the week, you’ll struggle to burn fat. And, of course, once you’ve had a few drinks you’re more likely to crave calorific foods and less likely to want to workout the next day. 

So when you’d been planning on going to the gym and your colleagues spontaneously decide a post-work trip to the pub is in order, what do you do?

For starters, don’t feel guilty if you skip the workout - one gym session is not going to make much difference in the scheme of things, so don’t panic. Relaxing, being sociable, and having fun is an essential part of your mental well-being too.

Read: #FitU with Phindi Gule: 'Five 2018 Exercise Trends'

Here’s how to monitor your alcohol intake while working towards your fitness goal:

1. Be mindful of how much you are having

For some people, there is no such thing as ‘just a glass or two’ - if you’re drinking, you’re drinking...a lot. This needn’t be the case though!!!!! Something is not going to taste any better by having more of it. You really do not need to finish the whole bottle!!!! Have a drink that you really enjoy and take your time to drink it.

2. Keep up your workouts as best you can

Although it can be tempting to skip the gym when you’re a bit hungover, it’s important to keep your energy expenditure up if you’re trying to burn fat. You might find you feel better and crave healthy foods afterwards too. 

3. Prepare for the late-night munchies

Telling yourself you'll stop eating after nights on the booze is simply unrealistic if you're always hungry when you get home at midnight. But if you have a healthy meal or snack prepared for when you come home after drinking you’ll be less likely to grab a kebab, cheesy chips or chicken nuggets on the way home. 

Of course, many people find themselves craving greasy foods at the end of a night out but it’s easier to change these habits than you might think - and you’ll feel miles better the next day.

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4. Drink water in between your alcoholic drinks

It’s a classic piece of advice for good reason: Drinking water between alcoholic drinks helps slow down the rate at which you finish your drink and ensures you are less likely to lose control. It also helps with the hangover!.

5. Learn to socialise sober

It can be a daunting prospect, but it’s entirely possible to go out with your mates or colleagues when they’re all boozing, stick to soft drinks and have a good time.

Going out and not drinking is a skill definitely worth trying. You’ll be amazed at how much fun you can have and how great you will feel the next day!