Q&A: Expert Commentary from Tom Lawman-Butler

question What lifestyle choices do you make at home to stay fit and healthy? Do you ever cheat? Does your family adhere to a similar plan?

answerI spend a lot of time cooking when I’m at home, to ensure I have healthy meals with me when I’m on the go. My approach to nutrition is flexible, which allows me to eat my favourite foods in moderation and still achieve my health and fitness goals.

My girlfriend is also very health-conscious and supportive of my lifestyle — I guess I’m pretty lucky! Families should always help each other out and try to be supportive of healthy eating and exercise.

I don’t like the word ‘cheating’ when it comes to eating, food shouldn’t be labelled as good or bad as it can lead to unhealthy attitudes and relationships with diet. Any healthy lifestyle should allow you to eat your favourite foods and not be overly restrictive. It really is all about balance.

 

Tom Lawman-Butler is a personal trainer at Virgin Active Health Club Kensington; www.virginactive.co.uk

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