A Well-Rounded Fitness Program
The Making the Cut program, based on Jillian Michaels' book, "Making the Cut: The 30-Day Diet and Fitness Plan for the Strongest, Sexiest You," is best described as a short-term, quick fix diet program. Before opening the front cover, readers are made aware that it is a 30-day diet and fitness plan designed to help them lose 10 to 20 lbs. and tone up in preparation for a specific date or event. The plan is not designed for those who need to lose a significant amount of weight or for long-term results. The program provides training in three areas: mental, nutritional and physical. It is a relatively strict plan that requires you to follow it exactly as it is laid out in order to produce the promised results.
Diet Plan
The diet plan is based on body type and metabolic makeup, and includes a wide variety of nutritious foods. A survey allows you to determine if you are a "slow oxidizer," "balanced oxidizer" or "fast oxidizer." These categories indicate the combination of carbohydrates, proteins and fats you need for optimum performance and weight loss. The workouts are intense, requiring you to exercise at 85 to 100 percent of your maximum heart rate, with a focus on strength, flexibility, coordination and endurance. A variety of workout techniques are explained and incorporated, including two sessions a day, split workouts, circuit training, interval training and "supersetting."
The criteria for starting the program include being at a moderate fitness level, having a commitment to your goals and having 20 lbs. or less to lose.
Mental Health and Lifestyle Choices
In addition to the diet and exercise plan, the program also focuses on mental health and lifestyle choices. The focus on mental health is intended to improve self-confidence and focus for better results from the program. Some of the topics include visualization, daily affirmations, eliminating negative self-talk, karma, mediation and organization.
Summary
Overall, this 30-day plan focuses on a healthy balance. It is not based on unrealistic or dangerous fads that are unfortunately so popular in quick fix diet plans. It is still wise to seek the advice of a medical professional to determine if the program is right for you. It is also beneficial to remember that your commitment to this program is short term, and it is likely that your results will be, too. You can be successful on this program, but if you go back to your old lifestyle after losing the weight, you set yourself up to gain it back. While the plan provides guidance for living a healthy lifestyle, its short-term focus does not allow for positive, long-term change.
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