The Other 99%: What Happens Outside the Gym Matters Most

We all know the value of training, but let’s zoom out and look at the bigger picture. On average, most people are awake for about 16 hours a day. Multiply that by seven days, and you’re looking at 112 waking hours in a week.

Now, consider this: if you're training with us twice a week, that's just 2 hours out of 112—1.8% of your total waking hours. Even if you’re training three times a week, that’s only 3 hours, or 2.7%. That leaves over 97% of your time spent outside the gym—the other 99%.

Why the Other 99% Matters

Training is a crucial piece of the puzzle for building strength, improving mobility, and enhancing overall health. But those 2–3 hours a week won’t lead to significant changes if the other 99% of your time isn’t aligned with your goals.

What you do outside the gym can either amplify or undermine your efforts. Here’s what to focus on:

1. Sleep Quality and Quantity

Sleep is one of the most underrated factors in health and performance. Adults need 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night for optimal recovery, energy, and mental clarity. Without it, you’re limiting your ability to recover from training and build strength.

• Why it matters: Sleep regulates hormones like growth hormone and cortisol, which are essential for muscle repair, fat loss, and managing stress.

• What to do: Go to bed before midnight, keep a consistent sleep schedule, and create a bedtime routine that minimizes screen time and promotes relaxation.

2. Nutrition

The fuel you put into your body is just as important as the work you do in the gym. Without proper nutrition, your energy levels, muscle repair, and overall progress can suffer.

• Whole foods: Base your meals on nutrient-dense, unprocessed foods.

• Protein: Aim for 0.7–1.0 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily to support muscle repair and training goals.

• Hydration: Drink at least 2–3 liters of water a day to stay hydrated, which aids recovery and overall health.

3. Daily Movement

If you’re like most people, much of your day is spent sitting—at a desk, in the car, or on the couch. While sitting is inevitable in many cases, sitting for extended periods can take a toll on your health.

The dangers of prolonged sitting:

• Muscle imbalances and tightness: Sitting for long periods shortens your hip flexors and hamstrings, which can lead to poor posture, lower back pain, and reduced mobility.

• Poor circulation: Extended sitting decreases blood flow, especially in the lower body, which can increase the risk of blood clots and fatigue.

• Metabolic slowdown: When you sit for too long, your calorie burn decreases, and insulin sensitivity can drop, increasing the risk of weight gain and metabolic issues.

• Spinal health issues: Constant sitting puts pressure on your lumbar spine, potentially leading to disc degeneration or discomfort.

• Impact on longevity: Research links prolonged sedentary behavior with a higher risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and even early death.

What to do about it:

• Move frequently: Stand, stretch, or take a short walk every 30–60 minutes.

• Incorporate walking: Aim for 8,000–10,000 steps a day to keep your body active and combat the effects of prolonged sitting.

• Stretch or foam roll: Address muscle tightness and improve mobility from sitting too much.

4. Stress Management

Stress is a silent progress killer. Whether it's work, family, or daily pressures, unchecked stress can lead to overtraining, disrupted sleep, and poor recovery. Managing stress is crucial for optimizing your training and overall well-being.

What to do:

• Breathing exercises: Spend 5 minutes daily practicing deep diaphragmatic breathing to lower stress and activate your parasympathetic nervous system (the "rest and digest" mode).

• Mindfulness practices: Activities like yoga, meditation, or even a quiet walk can help reduce stress.

• Unplug and unwind: Limit screen time, especially before bed, and create moments in your day to disconnect and recharge.

5. Recovery

Recovery is where the magic happens. Training stresses your body, and recovery allows it to repair and grow stronger. Without proper recovery, you’re risking slower progress, burnout, and injury.

Recovery strategies:

1. Foam Rolling: Helps release muscle tension, increase blood flow, and improve mobility.

2. Massage: Promotes relaxation and alleviates soreness.

3. Yoga or Stretching: Reduces muscle tightness, enhances flexibility, and encourages mindfulness.

4. Sleep and nutrition: As mentioned earlier, these are the foundation of recovery.

6. Don’t Forget About Cardio

While strength training is foundational, many clients neglect cardiovascular exercise, which is essential for overall health and recovery.

• Why it matters: Cardio strengthens your heart, improves circulation, enhances recovery, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

• How to include it:

  • Low-intensity: Go for a brisk walk, bike ride, or swim for active recovery.

  • High-intensity: Short bursts of high-intensity intervals complement strength training and build endurance.

Putting It All Together

Your time in the gym is vital, but it’s just one part of the equation. Real, lasting results come from combining intentional training with solid habits in the other 99% of your life.

Checklist for the Other 99%:

• Sleep 7–9 hours each night.

• Eat balanced, protein-rich meals and drink plenty of water.

• Move regularly, especially if you sit for long periods.

• Manage stress through mindfulness and relaxation techniques.

• Incorporate some form of cardio for heart health and recovery.

• Spend time on recovery practices like foam rolling, stretching, or deep breathing.

Training is just the start. The question is, what will you do with your other 99%? Let’s work together to make all 112 hours of your week count.

Exercise and Type 1 Diabetes: Benefits, Recommendations, and Safety Considerations

Type 1 diabetes presents unique challenges when it comes to managing blood sugar levels, but exercise can be a highly effective tool in maintaining overall health and stability. However, for individuals with type 1 diabetes—or for those coaching them—it’s essential to approach exercise with a clear understanding of the condition’s unique demands. This post will explore the benefits of physical activity, the types of exercise most suitable for people with type 1 diabetes, and critical safety tips to ensure a balanced, effective workout routine.

Why Exercise Matters for Managing Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, requiring individuals to use external insulin to regulate blood sugar. Unlike type 2 diabetes, which is often associated with insulin resistance, managing type 1 diabetes involves balancing insulin doses with blood sugar levels, diet, and physical activity. Exercise plays a crucial role in this balance by:

• Improving Insulin Sensitivity: Exercise makes muscle cells more receptive to insulin, allowing them to take in more glucose and helping stabilize blood sugar levels.

• Enhancing Cardiovascular Health: People with type 1 diabetes have an increased risk of heart disease. Cardiovascular exercise strengthens the heart, lowers blood pressure, and improves cholesterol levels.

• Supporting Mental Health: Regular physical activity releases endorphins, which can reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression that people with chronic conditions may experience.

Benefits of Cardio and Strength Training

Both cardio and strength training are beneficial, but each offers unique advantages for people managing type 1 diabetes.

Cardiovascular Exercise

Engaging in aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, running, or swimming, is excellent for:

• Improving Heart Health: Cardio exercises strengthen the heart and improve circulation, essential for individuals at risk of cardiovascular issues.

• Enhanced Insulin Efficiency: Cardio improves how cells use glucose, making it easier to keep blood sugar levels within target ranges during and after exercise.

• Mood Enhancement: The endorphin release from cardio exercise can be particularly beneficial in managing the mental health challenges that can accompany type 1 diabetes.

Strength Training

Strength training, including weightlifting and bodyweight exercises, provides specific benefits, such as:

• Increased Muscle Mass: Muscle mass helps with glucose uptake and storage, which contributes to improved blood sugar control.

• Boosted Metabolism: Strength training raises the resting metabolic rate, meaning more calories (and glucose) are burned even at rest.

• Improved Bone and Joint Health: Strength training can enhance bone density and joint function, reducing the risk of fractures and maintaining long-term mobility.

Recommended Exercise Frequency

For optimal health and blood sugar management, a balanced exercise regimen combining both cardio and strength training is ideal:

Cardio (Aerobic Exercise)

• Frequency: Aim for 3-5 days per week.

• Duration: 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio (such as brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity cardio (such as running) each week.

• Intensity: Adjust intensity based on individual fitness levels, aiming for moderate to vigorous effort.

Strength Training (Resistance Exercise)

• Frequency: At least 2-3 days per week, with exercises targeting all major muscle groups (legs, back, chest, shoulders, arms, and core).

• Sets & Reps: Aim for 2-3 sets of 8-12 repetitions per exercise to build muscle strength and endurance.

Combining both types of exercise supports stable blood sugar levels, enhances physical fitness, and reduces diabetes-related health risks.

Safety Considerations for Exercise with Type 1 Diabetes

While exercise is highly beneficial, there are some important safety factors to keep in mind for those with type 1 diabetes:

1. Pre-Exercise Blood Sugar Check:

   • Check blood sugar before exercising. If blood sugar is below 5.5 mmol/L (100 mg/dL), have a small snack to avoid hypoglycemia. If blood sugar is above 13.9 mmol/L (250 mg/dL) with ketones present, avoid exercise until levels stabilize.

2. Managing Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar):

   • Symptoms of low blood sugar include shakiness, sweating, and dizziness. Always have a fast-acting carbohydrate source, such as glucose tablets or juice, available in case of low blood sugar during or after exercise.

3. Adjusting Insulin Doses:

   • Work with a healthcare provider to adjust insulin dosages before physical activity. Intense or prolonged exercise may require insulin adjustments to prevent drops in blood sugar levels.

4. Post-Exercise Monitoring:

   • Blood sugar levels can drop even hours after exercise, especially following high-intensity activities. Encourage frequent monitoring after workouts to identify any delayed hypoglycemia.

5. Hydration:

   • Dehydration can affect blood sugar levels, so drinking water before, during, and after exercise is important.

6. Foot Care:

   • Individuals with diabetes should wear proper footwear to avoid sores and blisters, and inspect feet regularly for any signs of damage or infection.

7. Avoiding Insulin Injection Sites in Active Muscles:

   • Injecting insulin into muscles that will be used in exercise (like the thighs before a run) can lead to faster absorption, which may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Instead, use non-active sites, such as the abdomen, before working out.

8. Progression and Adaptation:

   • Gradually increase the intensity and duration of workouts to avoid injury and allow the body to adapt, which is especially important for those new to regular exercise.

9. Monitoring for Signs of Cardiovascular Distress:

   • Due to the higher risk of heart complications, individuals should watch for any signs of cardiovascular distress, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, and stop exercising immediately if symptoms arise.

10. Communication with Healthcare Providers:

• Regular check-ins with a healthcare provider are essential to ensure that exercise plans align with overall diabetes management and health goals.

Conclusion

For individuals with type 1 diabetes, exercise can be transformative. By improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing cardiovascular health, and promoting mental well-being, regular exercise provides lasting benefits. However, careful planning and close monitoring of blood sugar levels are crucial to a safe and effective workout routine. With proper precautions and personalized guidance, people with type 1 diabetes can experience the many advantages of a balanced exercise program.

Remember to consult with a healthcare provider before starting or modifying an exercise program, especially when managing a condition like type 1 diabetes.

How Many Steps Should You Walk a Day?

Walking is often recommended as a simple yet effective form of exercise. But how many steps should you aim for each day? Whether you're counting steps or tracking minutes, the answer varies based on your fitness level and goals. Let’s break down the benefits of walking and why this common movement is important for everyone, regardless of conditioning level.

The Benefits of Walking

Walking is one of the most natural movements for humans. Our bodies are designed to walk, and in today’s increasingly sedentary world, we need to move more than ever. Walking is often undervalued, but it offers many benefits, including:

• Improved Mental Health: Regular walks, especially outdoors, can reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.

• Better Joint Health: Walking helps lubricate the joints, which can reduce stiffness and discomfort, particularly in those with arthritis.

• Increased Caloric Burn: While walking may not burn as many calories as intense exercise, it can still help with weight management.

• Enhanced Cardiovascular Health: For some individuals, walking is an excellent way to improve heart health.

Walking in Nature: A Double Benefit

Walking in nature offers an additional layer of benefits. Research shows that being in green spaces can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. The color green has a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Walking among trees, plants, and natural landscapes allows you to reset mentally, giving your brain a break from the overstimulation of daily life. So, if possible, try to walk outside in nature to enjoy these mental and emotional benefits.

Walking: Is It Always Cardio?

For someone who is deconditioned (hasn’t exercised regularly), walking can provide a significant cardiovascular benefit. It can elevate their heart rate into a zone where their body adapts, improving their heart and lung capacity over time. This makes walking an accessible entry point into fitness for many.

However, for those who are more conditioned, a leisurely stroll is unlikely to challenge the cardiovascular system. While walking remains beneficial, it may not elevate the heart rate high enough to prompt the adaptations typically associated with cardiovascular exercise. In these cases, faster-paced walks, hills, or other forms of more intense exercise may be needed for those specific cardio benefits.

Walking Isn’t Just About Cardio

Even if walking doesn’t improve your cardiovascular fitness, it’s still important for overall health. Walking is essential for mobility, circulation, and mental clarity. Regular walking helps combat the harmful effects of sitting, which has been linked to various health risks, including heart disease, diabetes, and even premature death.

Walking helps you stay active throughout the day, which is more important than you might think. Modern lifestyles tend to be highly sedentary, with long periods spent sitting at work, in transit, or at home. Even if walking doesn’t challenge your cardiovascular system, it’s an essential habit for staying healthy.

Don’t Forget to Swing Your Arms!

Another often overlooked aspect of walking is the importance of swinging your arms. In our modern world, where many of us hold our phones or keep our hands in our pockets, the natural arm swing can easily be forgotten. However, swinging your arms as you walk is essential for proper body mechanics. It promotes torso rotation, helping your spine move more naturally, and increases hip extension, allowing for a more efficient gait. This arm movement also helps balance and propel your body forward, making your walk more effective and biomechanically sound.

How Many Steps Should You Aim For?

You've likely heard the recommendation to walk 10,000 steps a day. However, this number is somewhat arbitrary. It originated from a Japanese marketing campaign in the 1960s and has since become a widely accepted target. But it’s not a magic number.

The truth is, your step goal depends on where you’re starting from. If you’re currently not walking much at all, aiming for 10,000 steps right away may feel overwhelming. Instead, start with a smaller, more manageable number. For example, 6,000 steps per day could be a great starting point for some people. Over time, gradually increase your step count as your fitness level improves.

Walking in Terms of Minutes

If you prefer tracking time rather than steps, the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic activity per week, which can include brisk walking. This breaks down to about 30 minutes of walking five days a week. You can split this into shorter bouts throughout the day to make it more manageable.

However, remember that for walking to count as moderate activity, it needs to raise your heart rate. For someone who’s conditioned, a brisk pace or walking uphill may be necessary to achieve this.

What Does the Science Say?

Recent research supports the idea that you don’t need to hit 10,000 steps daily to reap the health benefits. A 2021 study published in the journal JAMA Network Open found that walking 7,000 steps per day was associated with a lower risk of mortality compared to fewer steps. Other studies suggest that even 4,000-5,000 steps per day can improve health outcomes, especially when combined with more vigorous activity.

The key takeaway from recent literature is that every step counts, and the more you walk, the better. However, pushing yourself to an arbitrary goal like 10,000 steps may not be necessary, especially if you’re starting from a lower baseline.

Start Where You Are

If you’re new to walking or have been inactive, don’t be discouraged if you’re not hitting 10,000 steps. Start with what’s achievable for you. If that’s 2,000 steps a day, that’s great! Gradually increase your steps each week as your fitness improves. You’ll still enjoy significant health benefits even at lower step counts, and consistency is more important than perfection.

The Bottom Line

Walking is one of the most accessible forms of movement available to us, but its impact depends on your fitness level and goals. For some, it’s an excellent cardiovascular workout, while for others, it’s a way to stay active, improve mental clarity, and combat the sedentary lifestyle. Instead of focusing on an arbitrary number of steps, find a level that works for you and build from there. Whether it’s in terms of steps or minutes, walking more is always a step in the right direction—just don’t forget to swing your arms and, if possible, get out in nature!

Exercise and Type 2 Diabetes: Benefits, Recommendations, and Safety Considerations

Exercise is one of the most effective tools for managing type 2 diabetes. Not only does it improve blood sugar control, but it also enhances overall health and well-being. However, if you or someone you coach has type 2 diabetes, it’s essential to understand how to exercise safely and effectively. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of both cardio and strength training, the recommended frequency of each type of exercise, and important considerations for a safe workout routine.

Why Exercise is Crucial for Managing Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it efficiently. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause long-term health issues if left uncontrolled. Exercise helps by improving insulin sensitivity and allowing muscles to better use glucose, which can lead to more stable blood sugar levels.

Cardio and strength training are the two primary types of exercise that offer unique benefits for managing diabetes:

Benefits of Cardio Exercise

Cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, is excellent for:

• Improving Insulin Sensitivity: Regular aerobic exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively, lowering blood sugar levels.

• Lowering Blood Sugar Levels: Cardio uses glucose as a primary energy source, helping to stabilize levels during and after exercise.

• Enhancing Heart Health: With a higher risk of heart disease, those with diabetes benefit greatly from cardio’s positive effects on heart function, blood pressure, and cholesterol.

• Supporting Weight Loss: Cardio burns calories, which helps in managing body weight and reducing fat, especially around the abdomen, which is closely linked to insulin resistance.

Benefits of Strength Training

Strength training, such as weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, or resistance band workouts, offers these benefits:

• Increased Muscle Mass: Muscle tissue is a major site for glucose storage and use, so building muscle can enhance long-term blood sugar control.

• Better Glucose Uptake: Resistance training increases insulin sensitivity, helping glucose enter muscle cells more effectively.

• Sustained Blood Sugar Control: The more muscle you have, the higher your resting metabolic rate, meaning your body uses more glucose even when you’re not exercising.

• Improved Bone and Joint Health: Strength training is vital for bone density, joint function, and long-term mobility, reducing the risk of falls and fractures.

How Often Should You Exercise?

For optimal diabetes management, a combination of both cardio and strength training is recommended:

Cardio (Aerobic Exercise)

• Frequency: 3-5 days per week.

• Duration: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio (like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity cardio (like running) per week. This can be broken down into 30 minutes most days of the week.

• Intensity: Moderate to vigorous, depending on your fitness level and goals.

Strength Training (Resistance Exercise)

• Frequency: At least 2-3 non-consecutive days per week.

• Intensity: Perform 2-3 sets of 8-12 repetitions per exercise, targeting all major muscle groups (legs, back, chest, shoulders, arms, and core).

Combining cardio and strength training not only offers the best results for blood sugar control but also improves overall health and reduces the risk of complications associated with type 2 diabetes.

Safety Considerations: What Coaches and Clients Should Be Aware Of

While exercise is highly beneficial, there are some important considerations to keep in mind to ensure safety and effectiveness:

1. Blood Sugar Management:

• Pre-Exercise Check: Before starting exercise, check blood glucose levels. If levels are below 5.5 mmol/L (100 mg/dL), consider having a small snack to avoid hypoglycemia. If levels are above 13.9 mmol/L (250 mg/dL) and ketones are present, exercise should be avoided until levels stabilize.

2. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar):

• Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, dizziness, sweating, and confusion. Always have a fast-acting carbohydrate source (like glucose tablets or juice) available in case of low blood sugar.

3. Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar):

• Be cautious if blood sugar levels are very high (above 16.7 mmol/L or 300 mg/dL), as exercise could worsen symptoms. Monitor for signs like excessive thirst, fatigue, or blurred vision.

4. Medication Timing:

• Some diabetes medications can increase the risk of hypoglycemia during exercise. It’s important to time exercise sessions to avoid peaks in medication effects.

5. Hydration:

• Proper hydration is crucial, especially since dehydration can lead to elevated blood sugar levels. Drink water before, during, and after exercise.

6. Foot Care:

• Foot health is critical for people with diabetes. Proper footwear, regular foot inspections, and being mindful of any sores or blisters are essential.

7. Cardiovascular Health:

• People with diabetes have a higher risk of heart disease, so it’s important to monitor for any signs of cardiovascular distress, such as chest pain or shortness of breath.

8. Post-Exercise Monitoring:

• Blood sugar can drop hours after exercise, especially with high-intensity workouts. Encourage clients to monitor their levels for several hours post-exercise.

9. Progressive Intensity and Adaptation:

• Start gradually and adjust exercises based on the individual’s fitness level and health status. Modifications may be needed for those with joint issues or other complications.

10. Open Communication:

• Consistent communication between coach and client is key. Checking in about how the client feels during and after exercise ensures a safe and effective workout plan.

Conclusion

Exercise is a powerful tool for managing type 2 diabetes, and the combination of cardio and strength training provides the best results. With proper planning, monitoring, and awareness of the client’s condition, coaches can help individuals with type 2 diabetes enjoy the benefits of exercise while minimizing risks. Whether you’re focusing on improving insulin sensitivity, stabilizing blood sugar, or enhancing overall health, a balanced exercise routine can make a significant difference.

Remember: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you’re managing a chronic condition like type 2 diabetes.

Understanding High Blood Pressure and the Role of Exercise

What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and is given as two numbers:

Systolic Pressure: The top number, representing the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.

Diastolic Pressure: The bottom number, indicating the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.

A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure readings consistently exceed 130/80 mm Hg.

How Exercise Can Help Improve High Blood Pressure

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective lifestyle changes to help control high blood pressure. Here's how exercise benefits individuals with hypertension:

1. Strengthens the Heart: Regular exercise helps the heart become stronger and more efficient at pumping blood, reducing the force on the arteries.

2. Reduces Arterial Stiffness: Physical activity helps maintain or increase the elasticity of blood vessels, improving blood flow.

3. Helps Maintain a Healthy Weight: Exercise contributes to weight loss or maintenance, which can significantly reduce blood pressure.

4. Reduces Stress: Physical activity can lower stress levels, which is beneficial since stress can contribute to higher blood pressure.

5. Improves Blood Sugar Control: Regular exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of diabetes, which is a risk factor for hypertension.

Recommended Types of Exercise

For those with high blood pressure, the following types of exercise are generally recommended:

Aerobic Exercises: Such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, performed for at least 150 minutes per week.

Strength Training: In moderation, focusing on major muscle groups at least two days per week.

Flexibility and Balance Exercises: Such as yoga or Pilates, to enhance overall fitness and reduce stress.

Contraindications and Precautions

While exercise is beneficial, there are some important considerations and precautions for working with clients who have high blood pressure:

1. Consultation with Healthcare Provider: Clients should have approval from their healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program.

2. Avoid High-Intensity Exercises: High-intensity or heavy lifting exercises can cause a sudden spike in blood pressure. Clients should start with moderate-intensity activities.

3. Monitor Blood Pressure: Regular monitoring of blood pressure before, during, and after exercise is crucial to ensure safety.

4. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can increase blood pressure, so clients should drink plenty of water.

5. Gradual Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Proper warm-up and cool-down periods can help prevent sudden changes in blood pressure.

6. Breathing Techniques: Clients should avoid holding their breath during exercises (known as the Valsalva maneuver) as it can cause dangerous increases in blood pressure.

7. Stop if Symptoms Occur: Clients should stop exercising immediately if they experience dizziness, chest pain, or unusual shortness of breath, and seek medical attention.

By understanding these guidelines and working closely with healthcare providers, coaches can help clients with high blood pressure safely improve their health through exercise. To work with a qualified Avos Strength coach, contact us today to see how we can help guide you to a healthier life.