fbpx

Managing Alcohol as a Bodybuilder: Balancing Enjoyment and Fitness Goals

Blog Author
Harry Longworth
Date of post
26 July 2024
Blog Category

At One Coaching, we understand that maintaining a balanced approach to nutrition and fitness includes navigating social situations where alcohol is involved. Whether you’re in the midst of a diet, enjoying summer vibes, or on holiday, here’s how you can manage alcohol intake while staying on track with your fitness goals.

Drinking and Dieting:

When you’re focused in a dieting phase, managing alcohol can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you make smarter choices:

  • Opt for spirits and low-calorie options: Choose spirits like vodka, gin, or tequila paired with soda water or diet mixers. These options are lower in calories compared to sugary cocktails or beer.
  • Mind your portions: Stick to moderate servings. Maybe don’t get leathered. 
  • Plan ahead: If you know you’ll be drinking, adjust your food intake earlier in the day to accommodate the extra calories from alcohol. Focus on proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats to balance your macros. We speak about how to adjust your nutrition to fit around social occasions a lot at One Coaching, so be sure to follow us on socials to hear more. 

Managing alcohol in the summer and on holidays

Summer and holidays often go hand-in-hand with social gatherings and relaxation. Here’s how to enjoy yourself without derailing your fitness progress:

  1. Stay hydrated: Alcohol can dehydrate you, especially in hot weather. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and between alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated.
  2. Choose wisely at social events: Opt for lighter options like spritzers, light beers, or wine spritzers. These choices are lower in calories and can be enjoyed without guilt.
  3. Balance with physical activity: Take advantage of the summer weather by staying active. Also nail your workouts in the gym. 

Sticking to your fitness goals

  1. Moderation is key: Enjoy alcohol in moderation, focusing on quality over quantity. Savour your drink and the social experience without overindulging.
  2. Mindful eating: If you indulge in alcohol, pair it with nutritious meals and snacks to keep your overall nutrition on track.
  3. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how alcohol affects your body and adjust accordingly. If you find certain drinks affect your energy levels or recovery, consider alternatives.
  4. Prioritise recovery: Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Read this blog to find out more about optimising sleep.

At One Coaching, we believe in a balanced approach to fitness that includes enjoying life’s pleasures responsibly. Managing alcohol as a bodybuilder doesn’t mean complete abstinence – it’s about making informed choices that align with your goals.

By choosing wisely, staying hydrated, and maintaining an active lifestyle, you can enjoy summer and holidays without sacrificing your hard-earned progress. Remember, it’s all about balance and enjoying the process.

Struggling to find your balance? Struggling to manage social occasions? Don’t hesitate to get in touch. 

Recent blog posts

Top bulking foods to fuel your gains 

Top bulking foods to fuel your gains 

Whether you're new to the whole bulking game or you’ve been around long enough to know that stuffing your face with pizzas isn't exactly the best approach (although I’ll admit, a cheat meal never hurt anyone), it’s time to dive into the food that’ll fuel your gains...

Bulking Season: What is it, why do it and how to bulk?

Bulking Season: What is it, why do it and how to bulk?

As the winter is upon us, you might hear about bulking a lot more. If you’re new to the fitness game or you’re just unsure of some of the lingo, you might not know what bulking is, why people do it or how to bulk. So, let me help you out… WHAT IS BULKING? Bulking is a...

What is progressive overload?

What is progressive overload?

If you’ve been working out for a while, you’ve probably heard the term ‘progressive overload’ being thrown around. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it so important for your fitness goals? Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand and, more...

5 top tips to help you build muscle

5 top tips to help you build muscle

Building muscle is a goal that requires a well-rounded approach. Whether you're just starting out or looking to break through a plateau, you need to ensure you are doing these five things. Here are some top tips to help you build muscle effectively: 1. Prioritise...