Why Treats are Important for Fitness

It’s hard to argue that treats don’t make you fat, but I’d like to suggest that they also make you thin. This little fitness paradox is actually quite easy to explain when we look at the mental aspects of health and fitness instead of the physical rules that we have embedded into our routines.

First, let’s clarify one thing: the “treat” is a subjective term, and ideas on what makes a treat will certainly differ. One person’s candy bar may compare to another person’s bowl of berries, so it’s important that we acknowledge the relativity here. My point is that whatever your particular treat may be, it is in your best interest to keep eating it if you want to be fit.

You’ve probably heard the deny/overindulge argument. It goes something like this: if you deny yourself your favourite (read: unhealthy) foods, you’re far more likely to relapse into a maniacal binge, losing all control over your better judgment and consuming far more calories than you had ever thought possible. Perhaps I’m exaggerating a wee bit, but that’s only to stress the prevalence of this point among fitness and diet sources. I personally agree with this theory, as I’ve found that the strength of a craving is so often related to how long it’s been since I’ve tasted that tempting treat.

On the other hand, there’s a psychological bent to the issue that is sometimes swept aside. The treats in every part of our life — diet, hobbies, work and fitness — are crucial to keep us reaching for more, to stay on that ambitious track that leads us to our greatest successes. If used correctly, the act of treating yourself to a desire, a day off or a frivolous purchase will balance your emotions and center your priorities so you can not only continue to move along, but enjoy that journey.

Treating oneself appropriately can be difficult for some people to follow; an imbalance can lead to depression on the one hand (not treating enough) and addiction one the other (treats become the only priority). However, by being honest with yourself, communicating with others for accountability and accepting the basic nutrition principles, you should be able to tell when a handful of chocolate chips is called for and when that big ice cream sunday simply cannot be justified. Moderation is not always natural, but it’s also not that hard to learn.

A treat will not only quell the physical craving you’re feeling, it will bolster that part of your mind and spirit that makes you push harder, enjoy the journey and keep a healthy and contented self image. Be wary of any radical meal plan that tells you to cut out treats or completely replace them with a “healthier” alternative; maybe one day your idea of a treat will evolve into something healthier, but in the meantime be sure to reward yourself when you deserve it. You’ll be more inclined to stay on a healthy track, both mentally and physically.