So, you're in training, doing great, you've been on point with your diet, working hard in the gym, and putting everything you've got left into it. It's Friday night and your phone starts ringing and texts start coming through.

 

Uh oh, your friends whom you've been neglecting for weeks, aren't taking no for an answer tonight. So what do you do? You want to go out because after all the training is over you don't want to end up friendless. But you're conflicted because you don't want to just sit there sipping on your gallon of water while your friends are partying it up, throwing down shots and tearing up the dance floor.

 

What's a competitor to do in this situation? Well, if you decide you want to keep your friends and go out, the rule of thumb is to simply stick to vodka or tequila. Clear, pure alcohol such as vodka or tequila will have the least damaging affect to your physique, and won't take away from your progress thus far.

 

Take note that you will have to up your cardio time the next day however. This is simply to ensure that the extra carbs and sugar consumed are completely removed from your system.

 

Why vodka or tequila you ask? Because these two alcohols contain the least amount of carbs and sugar compared to any other liquor out there.

 

Tequila takes precedence over vodka, containing less carbs and sugar than vodka, but most people have a horror story of a drunken night while drinking tequila.

 

If you choose to go the vodka route, make sure it's only clear, unflavored vodka. (Same rule applies for tequila, choose clear, unflavored tequila) And as for your mixers? Water, water, water. You can add flavor by squeezing lemons, but do not add any sodas or juices as this will immediately increase your calorie and sugar intake.

 

Also, you are keeping yourself well hydrated by mixing with water instead. Staying well hydrated will reduce any chance of a hang over the next day. So bottom line, you can still have fun and live a little, but drink responsibly- pun intended.