The public behaviour of Generation Z (1997-2012) a third of current human population is familiar. Glued to mobiles, non stop; not hearing you because of noise cancelling ear gadgets.
Boomers (1946-1964), my generation; are perfectly alright to leave phones at home- if necessary.
Bible says in Ecclesiastes 3:5-“There is a time to cast away stones and a time to gather stones together…”
Picture this. At the gym, you do a certain number of reps (repetition) with each equipment. Rest between the reps.
Pacing. Stretching. Chatting, etc.
Right?
However, for Gen Z-rest means- phone browsing; while still seated or hanging on equipment.
I have been exercising regularly since 1969 at Ilboru Secondary School. Running, boxing, Yoga, swimming, etc. Athletes, we love sharing ideas. And in this era, discussions have become easier with phones.
Few months ago a young guy sent me a video “pumping” iron- as we say. He had been advised to lose weight.
“Uncle what am I doing wrong? The belly is not going.”
I asked: “What are you eating?”
He cited typical Tanzanian meals. Pilau. Machalari. Chapati. Nyama Choma. Filling the stomach. Not respecting ABC of nutrition.
He was also not breathing properly, overdoing the lifting (daily at the gym) and wondered whether it would help taking muscle enhancing tablets (steroids). Both are dangerous and may lead to heart attacks.
There is a sudden surge and obsession with lifting weights across Africa. Not so common say 30-40 years ago. Many-including the older generation are “pumping iron”- the young want to be bigger (with muscles), older aim losing fat. Personal trainers are costly; subsequently, body builders train daily, alone, ignorantly, sleeping less than 7 hours while not understanding nutrition.
Gym training demand a correct approach. Lifting weights requires correct breathing. Making sure you have a two day rest. Alternating your training by being outside, swimming, Yoga, Tai Chi, etc.
Balancing carbs or carbohydrates (rice, potatoes, maize, wheat) proteins (vegetables, meat) fruits and minerals (nuts, yoghurt), etc.
Currently the most scientifically proven healthy regimen, globally, is the Mediterranean diet. Based on plants, traditional cooking, olive oil and lean meats. No processed stuff, excessive animal fats and carbonated sugars. Africa has a similar abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, organic meat, coconut oil, etc.
