So, was it typical for paleolithic man to wake up in the morning and crank out 1000 crunches to impress the babes? I guess I'll never really know since I was born in the 80's - which is really the dawn of the current "fitness" movement (long runs, aerobics class, sweet leotards, etc). I would venture to think however, that paleo-man had more important things to think about than his six-pack, or maybe it was a non-issue since he didn't even know what a non-six pack was. Current research shows that most of our paleolithic ancestors were much like modern day super athletes. Standing about six feet tall with large muscular bodies, these men would not have any problems competing in some of our most grueling competitions (or the women in figure competitions). This makes plenty sense if you think about it. They are genetically identical to us, but lived a lifestyle devoid of chemical toxins (as a developing infant, toddler, and adolescent, not to mention in utero), didn't eat a poorly recommended diet full of grains and sugar, got plenty of exercise, and got adequate amounts of rest and sleep.
What did these people know that we seem to have forgotten? Well, survival for one. This was a much different concept than it is today. Then it meant that no matter what age you were, you better be able to run for your life, and it meant being able to carry heavy things around camp (housing, big animals, etc). Our hormonal system evolved through the use of specific "exercises" and intensities. That's why growth hormone and testosterone are so highly elevated during and following brief bouts of sprinting and lifting heavy things. Also, paleo-man did not find it necessary to spend a lot of time "jogging" or "ellipticizing". This is counter productive many times as it increases cortisol, decreases growth hormone and testosterone (marathoners have decreased levels of these hormones), while making you ravenously hungry. Instead of wasting time with "cardio", we should focus on exercises that do the following: increase function, stimulate growth hormone, stimulate testosterone, make us stronger, increase mobility, don't take hours out of our day, and challenge our balance and coordination.
Tips: Come workout at the Club or at least email me for some advice. Until then, stay fit and live healthy.
