WRITTEN BY WOODSIDE DIRECTOR OF TRAINING, JOHN BEANE
FINDING YOUR WAY | NAVIGATING WELLNESS INFORMATION FOR INDIVIDUAL SUCCESS
As we wrap up 2024, we first wanted to say thank you for taking the time to read our articles. We certainly hope they’ve given you quality information, clarity on subjects you may have been interested in, and most importantly, some guidance in helping you achieve your goals over the course of the year. Having said that, we also wanted to best prepare you for 2025 with an article that discusses how to navigate information so that you are able to make the best decisions for what you want to achieve this coming year and beyond. Whether your goal is body composition-related, performance-related or longevity-related it is important to seek out information that is in line with that goal. The challenge is deciding where to go for that information and what is useful.
The world of health and wellness is a lot like stepping into a crowded marketplace. Everywhere you look, someone is shouting the latest trend, promising you life-changing results or offering a quick fix for problems that likely took years to develop. It becomes possible to feel overwhelmed, confused or even paralyzed by the sheer volume of advice available. But here’s the thing: not all advice is created equal. Some can help you take meaningful steps toward your goals, while other information might waste your time—or worse, harm your health. Fortunately, you don’t need to be an expert to sift through this sea of content. By focusing on your personal goals, understanding what’s sustainable, and learning how to spot dangerous or dishonest claims, you can make decisions that truly work for you.
THE FIRST STEP | KNOWING WHAT YOU WANT
Before you even start navigating health information, it’s essential to get clear on your goals. What are you trying to achieve? Maybe you’re looking to run your first 5K, improve your strength, change your body composition or simply feel better in your day-to-day life. Whatever your goal, having a clear picture in your mind helps you filter out the noise. Even if you feel like you don’t have a specific goal, I’ve got good news and bad news for you. The good news is you do have a goal: maintenance. The bad news: now you’re obligated to finish this article.
Once you know what you’re working toward, the next step is to understand that not every piece of advice will apply to you. For instance, the latest workout someone swears by on Instagram might be geared toward elite athletes, not beginners. Or a diet plan trending on TikTok might completely ignore your dietary restrictions or preferences. Just because something worked for someone else doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you—and that’s okay. Think of it like shopping for clothes. You wouldn’t buy a pair of jeans just because they look good on a mannequin. You try them on to see if they fit you. The same rule applies to health advice. Tailoring information to your goals and circumstances is key to making it useful, effective and sustainable.
THE SUSTAINABILITY FACTOR | BUILDING HABITS THAT LAST
Let’s talk about sustainability. One of the biggest traps people fall into is chasing quick fixes or extreme solutions. It’s understandable—when you’re motivated, you want results now. But the truth is, the best programs aren’t the ones that promise overnight success; they’re the ones you can stick with long enough to see meaningful change. Consider this: how many people do you know who’ve tried a fad diet, only to fall off the wagon a few weeks later? Or who’ve signed up for an intense workout program, only to quit because it was too demanding or left them injured? These scenarios are common because these approaches often ignore the realities of daily life.
The most sustainable plans fit seamlessly into your routine. They respect your schedule, honor your preferences and make you feel good—not just in the short term, but in the long haul. If you love pasta, for instance, a low-carb diet that bans it entirely probably isn’t going to last. And if you hate running, forcing yourself to do it every day isn’t going to create a lifelong love of fitness. If you’re trying to “eat clean” and the tortilla chips at dinner have seed oil, take a breath, you are not going to spontaneously combust into a cloud of shame. Sustainability is about finding balance. It’s okay to challenge yourself, but it’s also okay to be realistic. Progress that feels steady and achievable is often the kind that sticks.
STAYING SAFE | AVOIDING DANGEROUS AND DISHONEST INFORMATION
Not all health advice is harmless. Some of it can be downright dangerous. For example, unregulated supplements often promise miraculous results but can lead to serious health complications. The same goes for extreme diets that deprive your body of essential nutrients or workout programs that push you past the point of safety. Unfortunately, the internet is full of these traps. One common red flag is overly dramatic claims. If something sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is. Similarly, be cautious of advice that relies on testimonials instead of science. Just because one person claims a product “changed their life” doesn’t mean it’s effective, let alone safe.
Here are some other red flags to look out for:
- They blame one food or habit for disease (i.e. seed oils, sugar, additives, gluten, etc.) disregarding how an individual’s health status is multifaceted.
- They give absolutist statements for example, “These 5 foods are the worst for your gut.”
- They don’t use citations, or they use limited research studies. Make sure you check those show notes!
- They distrust medicine yet sell supplements. Enough said here.
- They are a podcast host…kidding…kinda.
MAKING IT PERSONAL
At the end of the day, the best health decisions are the ones that work for you. This means they fit your goals, align with your values and feel good—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally.
If you’re ever unsure about the advice you’re seeing, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. The right Personal Trainer, dietitian or healthcare provider can help you cut through the noise and tailor a plan that’s safe and effective. They can also provide reassurance and guidance, so you don’t feel like you’re navigating this journey alone. And remember: your body is one of your best guides. Pay attention to how you feel when you try something new. Do you have more energy? Sleep better? Feel stronger or less stressed? These are all signs that you’re on the right track. If something leaves you feeling drained, anxious or in pain, it’s worth stopping and re-evaluating.
YOUR JOURNEY, YOUR RULES
The world of health and wellness will always be full of trends, advice and opinions. But at the end of the day, you’re the one in charge. By focusing on your individual goals, prioritizing sustainability and staying alert to misinformation, you can make decisions that truly serve you—not someone else’s idea of what’s best. One of my favorite strength coaches in our industry, Dan John, puts it beautifully when he says, “Look at your goals. Look at your behavior. Does your behavior match your goals.” At Woodside, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re starting a new fitness routine, exploring nutrition options or just looking for a little guidance, our team of professionals is always available to help.
Our team of Trainers can help you create a plan to help you meet your personal goals. To learn more click here or email us.
