THE 80/10/10 research-- or "How much can I blame my parents for my physique?"

According to Tosca Reno (Oxygen Magazine model, fitness author, and mom over 50) in her Eat-Clean Diet, "the healthy, beautiful body equation for lasting fat loss is 10 percent genetics, 10 percent training and 80 percent nutrition."  Also a fitness champion and nutrition expert, Reno has recharged her body using eat-clean techniques. At the core of her personal philosophy is the 10, 10, 80 formula for improved health and body image. " 

I remember when I first read this years ago, my mouth dropped open and I thought to myself, “You mean I can no longer blame the majority of my physique on my parents??--  But, what about the family thighs and butt?? What about the typical ‘pear shape body’ in the family?”

Well, yes, we can blame them-- a LITTLE-- but only about 10%!! Yes, 10% of how we look is based on genetics. That leaves a whole lot of how we look-- 90%, in fact, up to OUR OWN LIFESTYLE, our OWN CHOICES. To break down the 90% we ARE in control of:  10% is determined by how consistent and how effective our WORKOUT program is. The last 80% is determined by OUR DIET.

“It is true that genetics will play a role in your weight loss program, but it’s not the key. 80 percent of your weight loss program should be focused on what you put into your mouth: Nutrition. Nutrition is far more responsible for creating your shape and your health than you ever could have imagined.”

Another quote from another fitness expert:

“Always remember, diet is 80 percent, train smart, and train hard!”

Alicia Rewega

Fitness Editor

Oxygen Magazine