Planet Fitness

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

spartan_d wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

thefuzz1290 wrote: »

If you can't afford another gym, then do what you need to. However, make sure you ignore the pizza and bagel days, and pass up the free candy at the front desk. Find a smaller, independent gym. I bet you'll find more encouragement there, then PF.

Why does one need to ignore the pizza and bagels? If it fits in your daily calories then have at it.

The operative word there is "IF." It's common knowledge that your typical American already consumes way too much when it comes to processed, highly caloric food. Not to mention that your typical out-of-shape joe -- PF's target clientele -- is generally less informed when it comes to calories and the amount of effort required to burn them off.

Please explain what the difference is between having pizza and bagels or getting a big protein shake at the protein bars some gyms have that probably has as many if not more calories than the pizza and bagels. Is it ok because the shake is "healthy"?

Do you seriously not understand how protein works in building muscle, and how eating bagels (unless they are smothered in piles of lox) is not terribly helpful for hitting a high protein macro level? This kind of proves people's points about PF.

I don't get your point. When my PF offers, I eat a multi grain bagel and Asiago cheese (they are from Panera) and I have no problem hitting my protein goals for that day. Nutritional needs are very individualized.

"Do You Even Lift?"

In your case I note that you are a serious runner, but not a lifter, and naturally nutritional needs are individualized, but the split on PF attitudes comes down to DYEL.

To spell it out in greater detail, the poster seemed puzzled as to why serious lifting gyms offered protein shakes, thereby demonstrating ignorance of the basic function of the macro, while very vocally advocating for PF. I suspect PF is not going to be much of a help in educating her, and also suspect there are probably many hapless PF members diligently lifting weights and, sadly, not getting the results they should because the nutrition is just not there. Admittedly I am basing this on comment threads where grown-*kitten* men also mistake smith machines for squat racks, so my previous agnosticism on PF is tipping more and more into amusement over the spectacle.

As a woman who lifts, I find it to be a very challenging macro. On my lifting days, between a 12-oz sirloin and two protein shakes, and a lot of other food, I can generally get in the ballpark of hitting my protein macro. Shakes are particularly helpful on days when I think I am going to barf if I have to see another chicken breast.

And...in the spirit of lifting, I think we can all enjoy these words of broscience wisdom:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OloLS5kTrVs

I do lift but my lifting is for different reasons and therefore I have different needs. I can still easily get 200g of protein eating pizza and bagels and fit all my macros. My point is the assumption should not be that everyone that uses PF needs to just focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift. Understandable if that is your goal, then PF is not for you. I also understand comments about the marketing. What I will never get is putting everyone in the same category or saying that you can't hit your macros eating pizza or bagels.

I am sorry, could you show me exactly where I say this, since this is the argument you are trying to frame up? I am afraid you have misread or misinterpreted what I have written. While you're doing that, please show me where I say people need to "focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift." I am obviously a fan of progressive resistance + proper nutrition + proper knowledge. Seems a hard position to argue against. (SURELY a PF advocate wouldn't be deliberately obtuse to set up a strawman argument? No!)

The poster was equating bagels with protein shakes. That's kind of like a would-be construction worker equating a ball peen hammer with a roofing hammer. "I just don't understand why this roofing hammer exists and why Lowe's would sell it!" Sure, you can drive roofing nails with a ball peen, or insinuate that all hammers are the same, because calories or whatnot, but anyone who is a serious craftsman would also know exactly what to think of you. Of course this works both ways--anyone confused that a marathoner is fueling with high carbs is also likely a fool. Regardless, it seems like it is a kindness to clue someone in that roofing hammers--and protein shakes--exist for a reason.

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Sweet! Sounds like you already have your two plates! And combined with that Cincy terrain...your workouts are probably awesome! I will be super-jealous from my more-northern flat biking terrain.

Also, just to clarify, I agree with the other posters that you look absolutely amazing. I just had the feeling that you had more in store with the wonderful progress you have made thus far.

Yea I went out for a 32 mile ride last Saturday morning and Climbed about 2,000 feet. My progress has been more in performance than physical looks. Sunday a week ago I did the Ride Cincinnati for Breast Cancer and averaged 20mph for the first 35 miles. I did the 45 Mile loop and my wife did the 21 mile section so when I met up with her I slowed way down so I could stay with her. Then just Saturday I took my first Flat Land King of the Mountain on Strava. In fact I've been training for my first Crit on Friday night.

Don't get me wrong I'm still dropping in size. I'm now in a Medium Nike Golf Shirt and I've been having to buy medium Bib Shorts when I go cycling. But it's not as drastic as the first year of weight loss.

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

spartan_d wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

thefuzz1290 wrote: »

If you can't afford another gym, then do what you need to. However, make sure you ignore the pizza and bagel days, and pass up the free candy at the front desk. Find a smaller, independent gym. I bet you'll find more encouragement there, then PF.

Why does one need to ignore the pizza and bagels? If it fits in your daily calories then have at it.

The operative word there is "IF." It's common knowledge that your typical American already consumes way too much when it comes to processed, highly caloric food. Not to mention that your typical out-of-shape joe -- PF's target clientele -- is generally less informed when it comes to calories and the amount of effort required to burn them off.

Please explain what the difference is between having pizza and bagels or getting a big protein shake at the protein bars some gyms have that probably has as many if not more calories than the pizza and bagels. Is it ok because the shake is "healthy"?

Do you seriously not understand how protein works in building muscle, and how eating bagels (unless they are smothered in piles of lox) is not terribly helpful for hitting a high protein macro level? This kind of proves people's points about PF.

I don't get your point. When my PF offers, I eat a multi grain bagel and Asiago cheese (they are from Panera) and I have no problem hitting my protein goals for that day. Nutritional needs are very individualized.

"Do You Even Lift?"

In your case I note that you are a serious runner, but not a lifter, and naturally nutritional needs are individualized, but the split on PF attitudes comes down to DYEL.

To spell it out in greater detail, the poster seemed puzzled as to why serious lifting gyms offered protein shakes, thereby demonstrating ignorance of the basic function of the macro, while very vocally advocating for PF. I suspect PF is not going to be much of a help in educating her, and also suspect there are probably many hapless PF members diligently lifting weights and, sadly, not getting the results they should because the nutrition is just not there. Admittedly I am basing this on comment threads where grown-*kitten* men also mistake smith machines for squat racks, so my previous agnosticism on PF is tipping more and more into amusement over the spectacle.

As a woman who lifts, I find it to be a very challenging macro. On my lifting days, between a 12-oz sirloin and two protein shakes, and a lot of other food, I can generally get in the ballpark of hitting my protein macro. Shakes are particularly helpful on days when I think I am going to barf if I have to see another chicken breast.

And...in the spirit of lifting, I think we can all enjoy these words of broscience wisdom:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OloLS5kTrVs

I do lift but my lifting is for different reasons and therefore I have different needs. I can still easily get 200g of protein eating pizza and bagels and fit all my macros. My point is the assumption should not be that everyone that uses PF needs to just focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift. Understandable if that is your goal, then PF is not for you. I also understand comments about the marketing. What I will never get is putting everyone in the same category or saying that you can't hit your macros eating pizza or bagels.

I am sorry, could you show me exactly where I say this, since this is the argument you are trying to frame up? I am afraid you have misread or misinterpreted what I have written. While you're doing that, please show me where I say people need to "focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift." I am obviously a fan of progressive resistance + proper nutrition + proper knowledge. Seems a hard position to argue against. (SURELY a PF advocate wouldn't be deliberately obtuse to set up a strawman argument? No!)

The poster was equating bagels with protein shakes. That's kind of like a would-be construction worker equating a ball peen hammer with a roofing hammer. "I just don't understand why this roofing hammer exists and why Lowe's would sell it!" Sure, you can drive roofing nails with a ball peen, or insinuate that all hammers are the same, because calories or whatnot, but anyone who is a serious craftsman would also know exactly what to think of you. Of course this works both ways--anyone confused that a marathoner is fueling with high carbs is also likely a fool. Regardless, it seems like it is a kindness to clue someone in that roofing hammers--and protein shakes--exist for a reason.

You are correct. I am not looking at all of the other stuff you said. Protein shakes or very different from bagels. I was very focused on this specific statement.

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Do you seriously not understand how protein works in building muscle, and how eating bagels (unless they are smothered in piles of lox) is not terribly helpful for hitting a high protein macro level? This kind of proves people's points about PF.

I don't know what it proves about PF and I don't need lox on my bagels for enough protein to help rebuild my muscles. I can enjoy a bagel and still get enough protein otherwise based on my protein goals

gothchiq wrote: »

I should also note I have seen some very muscular people lifting at our PF. "Lunk" according to what they have posted means grunting real loud, or dropping/clanging the weights, so as to show off or annoy others. They are trying to get people to be courteous and not d-bags. But like I said I have never heard the alarm in my current location. "not judging" means you don't snark the other customers or tell them what to do, once again, just don't be a d-bag. It's not a place to run around flexing with a selfie stick lol, you go there to work out is all.

I suppose I should be a proud d-bag then. I grunt on my heavy set and sometimes quite loudly on a 1RM or last rep on my AMRAP.

Usually pretty quiet on my deadlifts but I guess a d-bag when I am at a heavier set and the plates bang a bit on the ground during my reps.

I guess it is possible that bodybuilders who flex and take pictures managed to get the their physique by not going to work out, but I doubt it.

So does judging include calling people d-bags for normally acceptable gym behavior? I might have to recalibrate my d-bag meter.

And yes, I admit I am being a d-bag.

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

spartan_d wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

thefuzz1290 wrote: »

If you can't afford another gym, then do what you need to. However, make sure you ignore the pizza and bagel days, and pass up the free candy at the front desk. Find a smaller, independent gym. I bet you'll find more encouragement there, then PF.

Why does one need to ignore the pizza and bagels? If it fits in your daily calories then have at it.

The operative word there is "IF." It's common knowledge that your typical American already consumes way too much when it comes to processed, highly caloric food. Not to mention that your typical out-of-shape joe -- PF's target clientele -- is generally less informed when it comes to calories and the amount of effort required to burn them off.

Please explain what the difference is between having pizza and bagels or getting a big protein shake at the protein bars some gyms have that probably has as many if not more calories than the pizza and bagels. Is it ok because the shake is "healthy"?

Do you seriously not understand how protein works in building muscle, and how eating bagels (unless they are smothered in piles of lox) is not terribly helpful for hitting a high protein macro level? This kind of proves people's points about PF.

I don't get your point. When my PF offers, I eat a multi grain bagel and Asiago cheese (they are from Panera) and I have no problem hitting my protein goals for that day. Nutritional needs are very individualized.

"Do You Even Lift?"

In your case I note that you are a serious runner, but not a lifter, and naturally nutritional needs are individualized, but the split on PF attitudes comes down to DYEL.

To spell it out in greater detail, the poster seemed puzzled as to why serious lifting gyms offered protein shakes, thereby demonstrating ignorance of the basic function of the macro, while very vocally advocating for PF. I suspect PF is not going to be much of a help in educating her, and also suspect there are probably many hapless PF members diligently lifting weights and, sadly, not getting the results they should because the nutrition is just not there. Admittedly I am basing this on comment threads where grown-*kitten* men also mistake smith machines for squat racks, so my previous agnosticism on PF is tipping more and more into amusement over the spectacle.

As a woman who lifts, I find it to be a very challenging macro. On my lifting days, between a 12-oz sirloin and two protein shakes, and a lot of other food, I can generally get in the ballpark of hitting my protein macro. Shakes are particularly helpful on days when I think I am going to barf if I have to see another chicken breast.

And...in the spirit of lifting, I think we can all enjoy these words of broscience wisdom:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OloLS5kTrVs

I do lift but my lifting is for different reasons and therefore I have different needs. I can still easily get 200g of protein eating pizza and bagels and fit all my macros. My point is the assumption should not be that everyone that uses PF needs to just focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift. Understandable if that is your goal, then PF is not for you. I also understand comments about the marketing. What I will never get is putting everyone in the same category or saying that you can't hit your macros eating pizza or bagels.

I am sorry, could you show me exactly where I say this, since this is the argument you are trying to frame up? I am afraid you have misread or misinterpreted what I have written. While you're doing that, please show me where I say people need to "focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift." I am obviously a fan of progressive resistance + proper nutrition + proper knowledge. Seems a hard position to argue against. (SURELY a PF advocate wouldn't be deliberately obtuse to set up a strawman argument? No!)

The poster was equating bagels with protein shakes. That's kind of like a would-be construction worker equating a ball peen hammer with a roofing hammer. "I just don't understand why this roofing hammer exists and why Lowe's would sell it!" Sure, you can drive roofing nails with a ball peen, or insinuate that all hammers are the same, because calories or whatnot, but anyone who is a serious craftsman would also know exactly what to think of you. Of course this works both ways--anyone confused that a marathoner is fueling with high carbs is also likely a fool. Regardless, it seems like it is a kindness to clue someone in that roofing hammers--and protein shakes--exist for a reason.

You are correct. I am not looking at all of the other stuff you said. Protein shakes or very different from bagels. I was very focused on this specific statement.

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Do you seriously not understand how protein works in building muscle, and how eating bagels (unless they are smothered in piles of lox) is not terribly helpful for hitting a high protein macro level? This kind of proves people's points about PF.

I don't know what it proves about PF and I don't need lox on my bagels for enough protein to help rebuild my muscles. I can enjoy a bagel and still get enough protein otherwise based on my protein goals

You're running and training for half marathons, so you can eat the whole plate of bagels, hit your macro, and probably still be under your TDEE. Might be going out on a limb, but I am betting that likely makes you a special snowflake in the PF universe. I can and do eat bagels, too (even the extra-evil Cinnamon Crunch, which IS the debbil); I average a TDEE of around 2500 so I have plenty of room for them. That still doesn't change their lack of general usefulness for hitting a 155 g protein macro on a workout day while maintaining a slight deficit, although they are better than a kick in the pants. For not many more calories than a 13 g protein bagel, I can get 51 g protein with 3 scoops of powder in a glass of milk.

However...that vocal PF advocate was setting up a false equivalency between a plate of *free* bagels at a gym where much of the clientele likely lacks knowledge on proper nutrition and protein shakes *sold* at a serious weightlifting gym with serious trainers. She is implying that the criticism about putting plates of free food out in front of potentially overweight, not terribly sophisticated, struggling clientele is moot. She thus reveals herself to be not terribly sophisticated, and hence the sweet spot demographic for PF. That is what I was addressing--not if one should eat bagels or not. Of course, one SHOULD eat bagels, because they are delicious.

I've experimented with setting my diary to eat a whole day of cinnamon raisin bagels and I could hit my fiber and adequate protein goals - sodium is the killer. I'll rather have a bagel than a glass of milk with protein powder so I might be over sensitive in that area

However, I get where you are coming from. I'm no special snowflake in my PF though. As you pointed out there is a clear distinction of those who know what they are doing and make it work for them at a lower price point, and those who may get a membership, go one or two times, hang on to an incline treadmill or stair stepper for dear life, spend time texting on the strength machines, and then the bagel/pizza/tootsie rolls destroys all the work they have done. PF does have it's limitations.

Now I'm kind of mad at you, because after thinking about it all afternoon I want the cinnamon crunch bagel AND the shake. So much better than the sad leftover Subway I am ignoring in my lunch bag.

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

spartan_d wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

thefuzz1290 wrote: »

If you can't afford another gym, then do what you need to. However, make sure you ignore the pizza and bagel days, and pass up the free candy at the front desk. Find a smaller, independent gym. I bet you'll find more encouragement there, then PF.

Why does one need to ignore the pizza and bagels? If it fits in your daily calories then have at it.

The operative word there is "IF." It's common knowledge that your typical American already consumes way too much when it comes to processed, highly caloric food. Not to mention that your typical out-of-shape joe -- PF's target clientele -- is generally less informed when it comes to calories and the amount of effort required to burn them off.

Please explain what the difference is between having pizza and bagels or getting a big protein shake at the protein bars some gyms have that probably has as many if not more calories than the pizza and bagels. Is it ok because the shake is "healthy"?

Do you seriously not understand how protein works in building muscle, and how eating bagels (unless they are smothered in piles of lox) is not terribly helpful for hitting a high protein macro level? This kind of proves people's points about PF.

I don't get your point. When my PF offers, I eat a multi grain bagel and Asiago cheese (they are from Panera) and I have no problem hitting my protein goals for that day. Nutritional needs are very individualized.

"Do You Even Lift?"

In your case I note that you are a serious runner, but not a lifter, and naturally nutritional needs are individualized, but the split on PF attitudes comes down to DYEL.

To spell it out in greater detail, the poster seemed puzzled as to why serious lifting gyms offered protein shakes, thereby demonstrating ignorance of the basic function of the macro, while very vocally advocating for PF. I suspect PF is not going to be much of a help in educating her, and also suspect there are probably many hapless PF members diligently lifting weights and, sadly, not getting the results they should because the nutrition is just not there. Admittedly I am basing this on comment threads where grown-*kitten* men also mistake smith machines for squat racks, so my previous agnosticism on PF is tipping more and more into amusement over the spectacle.

As a woman who lifts, I find it to be a very challenging macro. On my lifting days, between a 12-oz sirloin and two protein shakes, and a lot of other food, I can generally get in the ballpark of hitting my protein macro. Shakes are particularly helpful on days when I think I am going to barf if I have to see another chicken breast.

And...in the spirit of lifting, I think we can all enjoy these words of broscience wisdom:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OloLS5kTrVs

I do lift but my lifting is for different reasons and therefore I have different needs. I can still easily get 200g of protein eating pizza and bagels and fit all my macros. My point is the assumption should not be that everyone that uses PF needs to just focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift. Understandable if that is your goal, then PF is not for you. I also understand comments about the marketing. What I will never get is putting everyone in the same category or saying that you can't hit your macros eating pizza or bagels.

I am sorry, could you show me exactly where I say this, since this is the argument you are trying to frame up? I am afraid you have misread or misinterpreted what I have written. While you're doing that, please show me where I say people need to "focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift." I am obviously a fan of progressive resistance + proper nutrition + proper knowledge. Seems a hard position to argue against. (SURELY a PF advocate wouldn't be deliberately obtuse to set up a strawman argument? No!)

The poster was equating bagels with protein shakes. That's kind of like a would-be construction worker equating a ball peen hammer with a roofing hammer. "I just don't understand why this roofing hammer exists and why Lowe's would sell it!" Sure, you can drive roofing nails with a ball peen, or insinuate that all hammers are the same, because calories or whatnot, but anyone who is a serious craftsman would also know exactly what to think of you. Of course this works both ways--anyone confused that a marathoner is fueling with high carbs is also likely a fool. Regardless, it seems like it is a kindness to clue someone in that roofing hammers--and protein shakes--exist for a reason.

You are correct. I am not looking at all of the other stuff you said. Protein shakes or very different from bagels. I was very focused on this specific statement.

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Do you seriously not understand how protein works in building muscle, and how eating bagels (unless they are smothered in piles of lox) is not terribly helpful for hitting a high protein macro level? This kind of proves people's points about PF.

I don't know what it proves about PF and I don't need lox on my bagels for enough protein to help rebuild my muscles. I can enjoy a bagel and still get enough protein otherwise based on my protein goals

You're running and training for half marathons, so you can eat the whole plate of bagels, hit your macro, and probably still be under your TDEE. Might be going out on a limb, but I am betting that likely makes you a special snowflake in the PF universe. I can and do eat bagels, too (even the extra-evil Cinnamon Crunch, which IS the debbil); I average a TDEE of around 2500 so I have plenty of room for them. That still doesn't change their lack of general usefulness for hitting a 155 g protein macro on a workout day while maintaining a slight deficit, although they are better than a kick in the pants. For not many more calories than a 13 g protein bagel, I can get 51 g protein with 3 scoops of powder in a glass of milk.

However...that vocal PF advocate was setting up a false equivalency between a plate of *free* bagels at a gym where much of the clientele likely lacks knowledge on proper nutrition and protein shakes *sold* at a serious weightlifting gym with serious trainers. She is implying that the criticism about putting plates of free food out in front of potentially overweight, not terribly sophisticated, struggling clientele is moot. She thus reveals herself to be not terribly sophisticated, and hence the sweet spot demographic for PF. That is what I was addressing--not if one should eat bagels or not. Of course, one SHOULD eat bagels, because they are delicious.

I've experimented with setting my diary to eat a whole day of cinnamon raisin bagels and I could hit my fiber and adequate protein goals - sodium is the killer. I'll rather have a bagel than a glass of milk with protein powder so I might be over sensitive in that area

However, I get where you are coming from. I'm no special snowflake in my PF though. As you pointed out there is a clear distinction of those who know what they are doing and make it work for them at a lower price point, and those who may get a membership, go one or two times, hang on to an incline treadmill or stair stepper for dear life, spend time texting on the strength machines, and then the bagel/pizza/tootsie rolls destroys all the work they have done. PF does have it's limitations.

Now I'm kind of mad at you, because after thinking about it all afternoon I want the cinnamon crunch bagel AND the shake. So much better than the sad leftover Subway I am ignoring in my lunch bag.

Hope you had both

On a different note, I did hear the lunk alarm go off this morning. The guy had his head phones on so he probably didn't even hear it

What was the offense?

Carbohydrates are a easy to break down source of fuel. Unburnt excessive Carbs are broke down to glucose and stored as fat, in the liver and muscles. Which can be burned at a later time. I'm sorry but I'm going to have to disagree with you there.

I don't have a problem with Pizza, Beagles, Doughnuts or any other pastry based item. But I don't see the purpose of carb loading post workouts.

Packerjohn wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

spartan_d wrote: »

Sassie_Lassie wrote: »

thefuzz1290 wrote: »

If you can't afford another gym, then do what you need to. However, make sure you ignore the pizza and bagel days, and pass up the free candy at the front desk. Find a smaller, independent gym. I bet you'll find more encouragement there, then PF.

Why does one need to ignore the pizza and bagels? If it fits in your daily calories then have at it.

The operative word there is "IF." It's common knowledge that your typical American already consumes way too much when it comes to processed, highly caloric food. Not to mention that your typical out-of-shape joe -- PF's target clientele -- is generally less informed when it comes to calories and the amount of effort required to burn them off.

Please explain what the difference is between having pizza and bagels or getting a big protein shake at the protein bars some gyms have that probably has as many if not more calories than the pizza and bagels. Is it ok because the shake is "healthy"?

Do you seriously not understand how protein works in building muscle, and how eating bagels (unless they are smothered in piles of lox) is not terribly helpful for hitting a high protein macro level? This kind of proves people's points about PF.

I don't get your point. When my PF offers, I eat a multi grain bagel and Asiago cheese (they are from Panera) and I have no problem hitting my protein goals for that day. Nutritional needs are very individualized.

"Do You Even Lift?"

In your case I note that you are a serious runner, but not a lifter, and naturally nutritional needs are individualized, but the split on PF attitudes comes down to DYEL.

To spell it out in greater detail, the poster seemed puzzled as to why serious lifting gyms offered protein shakes, thereby demonstrating ignorance of the basic function of the macro, while very vocally advocating for PF. I suspect PF is not going to be much of a help in educating her, and also suspect there are probably many hapless PF members diligently lifting weights and, sadly, not getting the results they should because the nutrition is just not there. Admittedly I am basing this on comment threads where grown-*kitten* men also mistake smith machines for squat racks, so my previous agnosticism on PF is tipping more and more into amusement over the spectacle.

As a woman who lifts, I find it to be a very challenging macro. On my lifting days, between a 12-oz sirloin and two protein shakes, and a lot of other food, I can generally get in the ballpark of hitting my protein macro. Shakes are particularly helpful on days when I think I am going to barf if I have to see another chicken breast.

And...in the spirit of lifting, I think we can all enjoy these words of broscience wisdom:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OloLS5kTrVs

I do lift but my lifting is for different reasons and therefore I have different needs. I can still easily get 200g of protein eating pizza and bagels and fit all my macros. My point is the assumption should not be that everyone that uses PF needs to just focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift. Understandable if that is your goal, then PF is not for you. I also understand comments about the marketing. What I will never get is putting everyone in the same category or saying that you can't hit your macros eating pizza or bagels.

I am sorry, could you show me exactly where I say this, since this is the argument you are trying to frame up? I am afraid you have misread or misinterpreted what I have written. While you're doing that, please show me where I say people need to "focus on lifting the heaviest they can possibly lift." I am obviously a fan of progressive resistance + proper nutrition + proper knowledge. Seems a hard position to argue against. (SURELY a PF advocate wouldn't be deliberately obtuse to set up a strawman argument? No!)

The poster was equating bagels with protein shakes. That's kind of like a would-be construction worker equating a ball peen hammer with a roofing hammer. "I just don't understand why this roofing hammer exists and why Lowe's would sell it!" Sure, you can drive roofing nails with a ball peen, or insinuate that all hammers are the same, because calories or whatnot, but anyone who is a serious craftsman would also know exactly what to think of you. Of course this works both ways--anyone confused that a marathoner is fueling with high carbs is also likely a fool. Regardless, it seems like it is a kindness to clue someone in that roofing hammers--and protein shakes--exist for a reason.

You are correct. I am not looking at all of the other stuff you said. Protein shakes or very different from bagels. I was very focused on this specific statement.

jmbmilholland wrote: »

Do you seriously not understand how protein works in building muscle, and how eating bagels (unless they are smothered in piles of lox) is not terribly helpful for hitting a high protein macro level? This kind of proves people's points about PF.

I don't know what it proves about PF and I don't need lox on my bagels for enough protein to help rebuild my muscles. I can enjoy a bagel and still get enough protein otherwise based on my protein goals

You're running and training for half marathons, so you can eat the whole plate of bagels, hit your macro, and probably still be under your TDEE. Might be going out on a limb, but I am betting that likely makes you a special snowflake in the PF universe. I can and do eat bagels, too (even the extra-evil Cinnamon Crunch, which IS the debbil); I average a TDEE of around 2500 so I have plenty of room for them. That still doesn't change their lack of general usefulness for hitting a 155 g protein macro on a workout day while maintaining a slight deficit, although they are better than a kick in the pants. For not many more calories than a 13 g protein bagel, I can get 51 g protein with 3 scoops of powder in a glass of milk.

However...that vocal PF advocate was setting up a false equivalency between a plate of *free* bagels at a gym where much of the clientele likely lacks knowledge on proper nutrition and protein shakes *sold* at a serious weightlifting gym with serious trainers. She is implying that the criticism about putting plates of free food out in front of potentially overweight, not terribly sophisticated, struggling clientele is moot. She thus reveals herself to be not terribly sophisticated, and hence the sweet spot demographic for PF. That is what I was addressing--not if one should eat bagels or not. Of course, one SHOULD eat bagels, because they are delicious.

I've experimented with setting my diary to eat a whole day of cinnamon raisin bagels and I could hit my fiber and adequate protein goals - sodium is the killer. I'll rather have a bagel than a glass of milk with protein powder so I might be over sensitive in that area

However, I get where you are coming from. I'm no special snowflake in my PF though. As you pointed out there is a clear distinction of those who know what they are doing and make it work for them at a lower price point, and those who may get a membership, go one or two times, hang on to an incline treadmill or stair stepper for dear life, spend time texting on the strength machines, and then the bagel/pizza/tootsie rolls destroys all the work they have done. PF does have it's limitations.

Now I'm kind of mad at you, because after thinking about it all afternoon I want the cinnamon crunch bagel AND the shake. So much better than the sad leftover Subway I am ignoring in my lunch bag.

Hope you had both

On a different note, I did hear the lunk alarm go off this morning. The guy had his head phones on so he probably didn't even hear it

What was the offense?

It was a guy in a Smith Machine. He didn't drop weights or anything. He was just doing something with the weights/machine that made a lot of unnecessary noise (for about 10-15 seconds). Maybe something was stuck.

ndj1979 wrote: »

mochachichi wrote: »

CincyNeid wrote: »

Carbohydrates are a easy to break down source of fuel. Unburnt excessive Carbs are broke down to glucose and stored as fat, in the liver and muscles. Which can be burned at a later time. I'm sorry but I'm going to have to disagree with you there.

I don't have a problem with Pizza, Beagles, Doughnuts or any other pastry based item. But I don't see the purpose of carb loading post workouts.

Hey CincyNeid...It's not really "carb loading" (as you would call what a marathon runner might do to prepare for a race) After a workout or a game think of it more as carb replenishing. Your muscles have burned off their stores of glycogen post workout. What your body really needs is to replenish those stores...which is why I always advise my clients and athletes to get something into their body post activity. Now, if your activity is just taking a walk around the block then no...skip the snack, but post workout....oh man, that's where the magic happens.

Meal timing is pretty much irrelevant except for advanced trainees i.e athletes and bodybuilders

Meal timing from a calorie deficit point of view sure. But timing is important for even intermediate trainees. For me, I don't need to carb load but I definitely need a combination of protein+carbs right after a heavy workout - carbs for replenishment, protein for recovery.

I switched to a new Planet Fitness from another gym in my area. The other gym had more cardio equipment, more weights, and heavier weights. But... there is a serious mold problem in the building caused by leaking ceilings over the years and management is not fixing it. I figure it's a matter of time before that gym closes.

I shopped around. I tried four other gyms before going with the PF. I tried an LA Fitness (found the bathrooms were constantly dirty, the hours were so-so, and the price was too high). Checked out the YMCAs. Checked out other $10/month clubs.

PF was the cheapest option, with the best hours, all brand new equipment, and when I looked at it- most of the equipment was exactly the same as the other gyms, only purple. The two other benefits were with the black card, I could bring in friends for free, and I can use any PF in the country. Since I travel a lot, this gave me a place to shower after a road race away from home before I'd make a drive home.

Honestly I feel more comfortable at the PF than I did at my old gym. I felt more judgement there. I also wanted a place that wouldn't have kids running around inside or climbing on the equipment (a YMCA problem where I live). And the staff at my PF keeps the place spotless- something I couldn't say for the other gyms I checked out.

I just make due with the equipment that is there. I've never seen a gym with every single piece of equipment I'd want. I just learned how to modify my workouts to use what they have to achieve what I want. For example there's a some great instructional YouTube videos on doing workouts with Smith machines, so I learned how to make them work for me.

I stay away from the bagels and pizza because I don't eat wheat anyway.

J72FIT wrote: »

20yearsyounger wrote: »

ndj1979 wrote: »

mochachichi wrote: »

CincyNeid wrote: »

Carbohydrates are a easy to break down source of fuel. Unburnt excessive Carbs are broke down to glucose and stored as fat, in the liver and muscles. Which can be burned at a later time. I'm sorry but I'm going to have to disagree with you there.

I don't have a problem with Pizza, Beagles, Doughnuts or any other pastry based item. But I don't see the purpose of carb loading post workouts.

Hey CincyNeid...It's not really "carb loading" (as you would call what a marathon runner might do to prepare for a race) After a workout or a game think of it more as carb replenishing. Your muscles have burned off their stores of glycogen post workout. What your body really needs is to replenish those stores...which is why I always advise my clients and athletes to get something into their body post activity. Now, if your activity is just taking a walk around the block then no...skip the snack, but post workout....oh man, that's where the magic happens.

Meal timing is pretty much irrelevant except for advanced trainees i.e athletes and bodybuilders

Meal timing from a calorie deficit point of view sure. But timing is important for even intermediate trainees. For me, I don't need to carb load but I definitely need a combination of protein+carbs right after a heavy workout - carbs for replenishment, protein for recovery.

Thanks for posting. Meal timing is maybe the extra 1% the aversge person could do for peak performance.

They would be much better off fixing other parts of their diet, sleep, etc.