Monday, October 4, 2010
by Alex Chaple
Homeostasis, meaning "standing Still" (C. Bernard 1929), is the property of a system that regulates its internal environment in order to keep it stable or constant. In Human Biology homeostasis is the term commonly used to refer to the fact that our bodies try their best to maintain a state of rest and sameness. Whilst it is cheesy and I cringe as I type it, your body is the perfect machine. It is intelligent, it adapts to its environment, it can grow, it can shrink, its processes (metabolic rate) can speed up or slow down dependent on its environment and fuel status and (most irritating of all) your body will do its very best to stay exactly how it is!
Your body doesn't want you to gain lean mass, nor does it want you to strip body fat and look great naked. Your body does not want you to become strong and fit and exercise regularly. Your body is not stupid. These processes all require a lot of effort on the part of your body and when faced with a choice - use up lots of energy in building a more efficient body or maintain a state of homeostasis (using very little energy)? - It is clear which is the easier option!
There is some bad news brought to light with the information in this blog. Your body will not change easily. It doesn't want you to change and get in shape. It is far too happy, and life is far too easy, if you stay inactive and eat junk food all day. No major metabolic processes are required in this scenario. Unfortunately, getting in great shape can't happen over-night and isn't easy. I wish I could tell you that it can, but why lie. It takes hard work in the gym, dedication to a solid nutritional plan (in a world where you are constantly tempted with sweet tasting junk foods) and most importantly, dedication. However, if it is something you want, and you are willing to put in the effort, a great looking and healthy body is very much achievable!
The changes do not come easy. You must force your body to change and never let it become comfortable in its current situation! With hard work and well directed effort, you can do it!