14 DAY TRIAL // For whatever reason, many of us have probably thought of going about losing weight the easy way, i.e. by starting some new fad diet, taking a “miracle” weight loss supplement or who knows what else. A big part in our decision is probably played by ads telling us that such quick weight loss is also sustainable.
Going online, you will surely find dozens of before and after photos of people who have “tried” X or Y product, and who are now slimmer, healthier and definitely happier for it.
Moreover, said products also promise amazing results in the shortest period of time, which, if you think about it, is a contradiction that should get us thinking.
This is what personal trainer Andrew Dixon set out to prove when he faked the before and after marketing shots mentioned above.
Check out the photo attached to this article: it’s of Dixon before losing weight and after he shaped up. As hard as it might be to believe, the pics were taken one hour apart, he explains in a piece on The Huffington Post.
“I decided to take my own transformation photos to see what was possible with just a few easy tweaks. About six months ago I was around 185 pounds [83.9 kg] and about 16 percent body fat. I was feeling particularly bloated on the day, so I asked my girlfriend to take a before shot,” he writes.
“I then shaved my head, face and chest and prepared for the after shot, which was about an hour after I took the before shot. I did a few push ups and chin ups, tweaked my bedroom lighting, sucked in, tightened my abs and BOOM! We got our after shot,” Dixon continues.
This is how weight loss companies sell illusions to wannabe-slimmers: the illusion that weight loss can be effortless and, at the same time, very quick.
Neither applies in real life, Dixon says.
To stay in shape and be healthy in real life, you must eat right and take proper care of your body. This can only happen in time, not overnight – but don’t despair and turn to cheats like those weight loss companies promise you.
“Don't try to look like anyone you see in a transformation photo. Be inspired, but don't be disappointed if you don't see yourself the way you see those models. Being tricked into eating low-calorie diets and doing endless cardio is a recipe for fat gain, especially in the long term,” he explains.
“Forget about the quick transformations and focus on a life of healthy eating, well-managed stress levels, quality sleep and plenty of movement. Spend time with people who have similar goals and values and take time to appreciate yourself the way you are right now. Don't beat yourself up if you eat a cookie, just enjoy that cookie and everything else life has to offer,” the trainer adds.