GF: Thanks for volunteering your time today. Can you please introduce yourself and your role at GlobalFit?
M: Mike McGrath, CEO of the The Charge Group
GF: Hi Mike! What does a “healthy lifestyle” mean to you?
M: It's so important to have a balance of all aspects of health, both physically and mentally. Certainly something I strive for everyday and continuously do my best at learning how to improve in these key areas.
GF: When did you begin focusing on a healthy lifestyle and why?
M: When I finished college in 2005, my first job was an assistant coach at a university. I stopped working out everyday and the pounds really started to accumulate fast. I didn't feel mentally or physically healthy so that is when I decided to take responsibility for my own health and happiness. I started learning about nutrition and how that properly fuels your body, mixed with simply moving more, no matter what it was (i.e. running, biking, yoga, etc.).
GF: How do you stay physically active?
M: I love staying active through sports and the Peloton. I occasionally mix up my routine with stretching, core work, and yoga, as well.
GF: How do you practice mindfulness or mental “fitness?”
M: Over the years, I've set time aside each morning to sit in silence and try to relax. I've dabbled with meditation here and there which has also had a profound effect mentally.
GF: Does your wellness routine include a certain way of eating? If so, can you describe it?
M: My only goal is to stick to a "whole food" based eating approach. I recently went predominately gluten-free to cut down on the unnecessary foods but every so often I'll have a dessert or something delicious to stay with the balance of moderation.
GF: How do you make time for your wellness routine amidst work, family, and other responsibilities?
M: Honestly, it's a struggle at times. With family, work, and friends, sometimes my routine falls off course. My goal is to always pick right back up and try to keep it simple!
GF: In regards to your wellness routine, what have you tried before that didn't work for you, and why not?
M: I've tried a lot of different "diets" just to test my own mental stability approach to food. So I've tried just about everything from intermittent fasting, vegan, raw food, and keto. Nothing really stuck and I really try to eat whole foods each day which makes me feel like an athlete.
GF: What does it take for you to be consistent in your wellness routine?
M: Making yourself a priority is key. I tend to fall off routine when other competing priorities ramp up. No matter what, pick back up and get started!
GF: What are your top tips for someone looking to live a more healthy lifestyle?
M: Keep it simple, small steps equal big gains over time. Do something that's fun and experiment. Nothing is perfect, try new things! Be supportive of yourself. Too often our goal is to be kind and respectable to others, while we don't hold ourselves to those same standards.
GF: Anything else you want to mention?
M: If you're interested in a free session with a Charge Registered Dietitian, you can sign up here.