When it comes to weight loss supplements, Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) and amino acids are popular choices due to their metabolic and energy-boosting properties. But how do they work, and are they the miracle solutions we’re all hoping for? Here’s a lighthearted breakdown that explores the science, benefits, and limitations of these supplements, helping you make an informed choice on your weight loss journey. What is Acetyl-L-Carnitine? Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) is a more absorbable form of L-carnitine, a compound our bodies use to convert fat into energy. Think of it as a “ferry service” that transports fatty acids into your cells' mitochondria, the energy powerhouses, where fat is burned for fuel Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) LeafyBark . It’s especially popular among fitness enthusiasts because it’s believed to help increase stamina, boost brain function, and even aid in fat loss by making the body a fat-burning machine. What Do the Studies Say About ALCAR and Weight Loss? Studies show ALCAR may enhance the body’s ability to burn fat, but there’s a little more to it than popping a supplement and watching the pounds melt away. A 2020 study found that ALCAR can improve insulin sensitivity, helping cells absorb glucose more effectively and reducing fat storage in the process Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) . This can be particularly beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes, as better insulin management can make weight loss easier. Another study showed ALCAR might also suppress appetite, potentially curbing those snack cravings that throw us off course LeafyBark . On the mental side, ALCAR has benefits that might indirectly support weight loss. Research has found that it can cross the blood-brain barrier, which means it can impact brain cells directly. In one study, participants reported feeling sharper and less fatigued, making it easier to stay focused on exercise and dietary goals EvidenceLive . Amino Acids and Weight Loss Amino acids like L-glutamine and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) — leucine, isoleucine, and valine — play a crucial role in muscle maintenance and energy production. BCAAs, in particular, are known for helping to prevent muscle breakdown during calorie restriction, which is vital because more muscle generally means a faster metabolism Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) . Studies have shown that people who consume BCAAs tend to recover faster from exercise, burn more fat, and retain more muscle than those who don’t, making it easier to keep weight off long-term LeafyBark . L-glutamine, another amino acid, is beneficial for gut health and can help stabilize blood sugar. This makes it useful for people who struggle with sugar cravings and energy crashes, helping them stick to a healthy eating plan EvidenceLive Pros and Cons of ALCAR and Amino Acids Here’s a look at the upsides and downsides of using ALCAR and amino acids for weight loss: Pros Boosts Fat Metabolism:  ALCAR helps convert fat into energy, which may help you lose weight when paired with exercise LeafyBark . Preserves Muscle Mass:  Amino acids like BCAAs protect your muscles during weight loss, which helps keep your metabolism up EvidenceLive . Improves Insulin Sensitivity:  ALCAR can make it easier for your body to use glucose properly, preventing excess fat storage Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) . Enhanced Recovery and Reduced Fatigue:  Both ALCAR and amino acids can help reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery, allowing for more frequent and intense workouts. Cons Not a Magic Bullet:  Supplements can support weight loss but can’t replace diet and exercise. Possible Side Effects:  Some users report mild side effects, like nausea or restlessness, especially if they take high doses EvidenceLive . Cost Factor:  High-quality amino acids and ALCAR supplements can add up in price, which may not fit every budget. Limited Long-Term Research:  While short-term studies look promising, more research is needed to understand long-term effects and efficacy fully. How to Use ALCAR and Amino Acids for Best Results For best results, it’s ideal to combine ALCAR with regular exercise and a balanced diet. Start with a lower dose (500 mg of ALCAR daily) and see how your body reacts. BCAAs are most effective when taken around workout times — before, during, or after — to protect muscles and promote recovery. Remember, these supplements aren’t miracle pills. But if you’re already active and eating well, they can offer that extra “boost” in both energy and fat metabolism, making weight management a little easier. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting new supplements, especially if you have any medical conditions. In short, ALCAR and amino acids are tools that, when used wisely, can enhance your weight loss journey. But they’re just that — tools! They work best as part of a broader, healthy lifestyle. EurekAlert  - Covers research on how Acetyl-L-carnitine may help improve mitochondrial function, boost metabolism, and contribute to weight loss. It explains ALCAR’s role in transporting fatty acids to mitochondria, aiding in fat oxidation. Read more here Harvard Health  - Provides an overview of amino acids like BCAAs and L-glutamine and their benefits for muscle maintenance, metabolism, and appetite regulation. Read more here LeafyBark  - Discusses the potential effects of Acetyl-L-carnitine on appetite, metabolism, and mental focus, which can indirectly support weight loss. It also includes data on ALCAR’s potential benefits for insulin sensitivity. Read more here National Institutes of Health (NIH)  - Shares studies on BCAAs and their role in muscle preservation, energy metabolism, and exercise recovery, key aspects of successful weight management. Read more here EvidenceLive  - Outlines a wide range of Acetyl-L-carnitine benefits, including mental clarity, energy boosts, and fat-burning potential through mitochondrial activation. Read more here EurekAlert  - Covers research on how Acetyl-L-carnitine may help improve mitochondrial function, boost metabolism, and contribute to weight loss. It explains ALCAR’s role in transporting fatty acids to mitochondria, aiding in fat oxidation. Read more here Harvard Health  - Provides an overview of amino acids like BCAAs and L-glutamine and their benefits for muscle maintenance, metabolism, and appetite regulation. Read more here LeafyBark  - Discusses the potential effects of Acetyl-L-carnitine on appetite, metabolism, and mental focus, which can indirectly support weight loss. It also includes data on ALCAR’s potential benefits for insulin sensitivity. Read more here National Institutes of Health (NIH)  - Shares studies on BCAAs and their role in muscle preservation, energy metabolism, and exercise recovery, key aspects of successful weight management. Read more here EvidenceLive  - Outlines a wide range of Acetyl-L-carnitine benefits, including mental clarity, energy boosts, and fat-burning potential through mitochondrial activation. Read more here

In recent years, the term “net carbs” has become a popular buzzword in the health and wellness industry. It’s used on food packaging, in diet plans, and by fitness influencers, often touted as a shortcut to effective weight loss. But how did the concept of net carbs come about, and what impact does it have on consumers today? At Rush Fit Training , we believe in transparency and science-based approaches, so let’s take a closer look at the history of net carbs and how companies might be misleading consumers. The Origins of the Net Carb Concept The idea of net carbs gained traction in the early 2000s, largely due to the rise of low-carbohydrate diets like Atkins and, later, the ketogenic diet. These diets were designed to limit carbohydrate intake, forcing the body to burn fat for fuel instead of glucose. As the popularity of low-carb diets surged, food manufacturers began marketing products as “low-carb” to appeal to consumers looking to stay within their carb limits. The term “net carbs” was introduced as a way to help dieters focus on the carbs that supposedly had the most significant impact on blood sugar. The calculation is simple: subtract the fiber and certain sugar alcohols from the total carbohydrate count to get the net carbs. The idea was that these elements didn’t raise blood sugar, so they shouldn’t count toward the daily carb limit. However, the introduction of net carbs was largely a marketing tool rather than a scientifically backed concept. The Role of Net Carbs in Popular Diets Net carbs were popularized during the peak of the Atkins Diet, which allowed followers to subtract dietary fiber and sugar alcohols from their total carb intake. The premise was that these components don’t significantly impact insulin or blood glucose, allowing people to consume low-net-carb foods while still following the rules of the diet. This approach gave rise to the “low-carb” food industry, which introduced a wide range of products, from snacks to desserts, all branded with claims of low or reduced net carb counts. Soon, other diets such as keto adopted the concept, and net carbs became a mainstream idea in the health and fitness world. The Problem with “Net Carbs” While the net carb concept might seem convenient, it has several significant flaws—especially when used as a marketing tool. 1. No FDA Regulation The term "net carbs" is not officially recognized or defined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While the FDA regulates the labeling of total carbohydrates, fiber, and sugars, it does not oversee the calculation or display of net carbs on food packaging. This lack of regulation allows food manufacturers to define net carbs however they choose, often with the goal of making their products seem healthier than they really are. For example, a snack food labeled as “only 2 grams of net carbs” might still be high in total carbohydrates, sugars, and unhealthy fats. The company may subtract all fiber and sugar alcohols, even those that can still have a slight impact on blood sugar. Since there’s no official standard, consumers are left in the dark about what they’re actually eating. 2. Misleading Subtractions Fiber and sugar alcohols are the two primary components subtracted from the total carb count to calculate net carbs. But not all of these elements are truly “free” of calories or blood sugar impact. Fiber : While insoluble fiber passes through the body without being digested, soluble fiber can be partially broken down by gut bacteria, releasing some calories in the process. Depending on the type of fiber, this can contribute to your total calorie intake. Sugar Alcohols : These are commonly used in low-carb or sugar-free foods. While some, like erythritol, have minimal effects on blood sugar, others, like maltitol, can cause significant blood sugar spikes. However, many companies subtract all sugar alcohols when calculating net carbs, giving the impression that the product won’t affect blood sugar at all, which may not be true for everyone. 3. Encouraging Processed Food Consumption One of the biggest issues with focusing on net carbs is that it often leads consumers to eat more processed, low-carb products rather than whole, nutritious foods. Companies use net carb labels to market highly processed foods as “healthy” alternatives, but these products often contain artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and unhealthy fats to make up for the lack of sugars and carbs. A low-net-carb snack might be appealing, but it can still be heavily processed and lack essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Many of these products are marketed as guilt-free because of their low net carb count, but they might still contribute to poor overall health if consumed in excess. How Companies Use Net Carbs to Mislead The food industry is notorious for using clever marketing to appeal to health-conscious consumers, and net carbs are no exception. Here are a few ways companies manipulate the concept of net carbs to sell more products: Overly Simplified Labels : Many products prominently display “2 grams net carbs” or similar claims in bold text on the front of the package. However, these labels often hide the fact that the product is still high in total carbohydrates or unhealthy ingredients. Consumers who don’t read the full nutrition label may be misled into thinking the food is better for their diet than it really is. Questionable Ingredient Subtractions : As mentioned earlier, companies often subtract all fiber and sugar alcohols, even those that may still have an impact on blood sugar. This can create a false sense of security for people trying to manage blood sugar levels or lose weight. If someone unknowingly eats large amounts of sugar alcohols like maltitol, they might experience blood sugar spikes and stalled weight loss. Health Halos : Many low-carb products use net carb claims as part of a larger “health halo” marketing strategy. By slapping terms like “keto-friendly,” “low carb,” and “net carbs” on the package, companies position their product as healthy—even if it’s highly processed and loaded with artificial ingredients. Consumers may feel good about their purchase without realizing the negative impact of these processed foods on their overall health. The Impact on Consumers While the net carb concept can be useful for some people, especially those managing conditions like diabetes, it often leads to confusion and poor dietary choices for the general public. Focusing too much on net carbs can lead people to eat more processed foods, ignore calorie intake, and miss out on important nutrients found in higher-carb whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and grains. Additionally, consumers who rely on net carbs without understanding the science behind it may struggle with weight loss or experience blood sugar fluctuations due to the misleading nature of food labels. A Better Approach to Nutrition At Rush Fit Training , we encourage a balanced approach to nutrition. While monitoring carbs can be important, especially for those on low-carb diets, it's essential to focus on the bigger picture—total calories, nutrient density, and food quality. Here’s how you can make more informed choices: Read the full nutrition label , not just the net carbs claim. Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Be cautious of sugar alcohols and understand how different types can affect your blood sugar. Remember that total calories matter when it comes to weight loss, regardless of net carbs. By focusing on nutrient-dense foods and overall caloric intake, you can achieve more sustainable and effective weight loss. While net carbs might seem like a quick fix for weight loss, the reality is far more complicated. The lack of regulation and misleading marketing can lead to confusion and poor dietary choices. At Rush Fit Training , we’re here to help you make informed decisions that support your health and fitness goals. Remember, sustainable results come from a balanced approach to nutrition, not just chasing net carb numbers. If you’re ready to take control of your health with expert guidance, contact us today to start your personalized fitness and nutrition plan! References: Food and Drug Administration. "Nutrition Facts Label: Understanding Total Carbohydrates." Livesey, G. (2003). "Health potential of polyols as sugar replacers, with emphasis on low glycaemic properties." Nutrition Research Reviews . Mayo Clinic. "Low-carb diet: Can it help you lose weight?"

At Rush Fit Training, we're proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Truemed that makes it easier than ever for our clients to invest in their health. Eligible clients can now use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to cover personal training services. This exciting development not only makes personal training more affordable but also opens the door to better health outcomes, particularly for those managing pre-existing conditions. Why This Matters for You We all know that staying fit is essential for long-term health, but personal training can be seen as a luxury, especially when juggling the costs of healthcare, fitness, and everyday expenses. However, with the option to use HSA and FSA funds, clients can now utilize pre-tax dollars to cover their fitness expenses, reducing the financial burden while improving overall wellness. According to research published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health , engaging in regular physical activity significantly reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension . Now, clients can use their HSA or FSA to fund these fitness efforts, making personal training an essential tool for both prevention and management of health conditions. How It Works Eligible clients can now easily apply their HSA or FSA funds toward personal training sessions at Rush Fit Training through our partnership with Trumed. These funds, which are typically reserved for qualified medical expenses, can now help cover the cost of training services focused on improving physical health, managing chronic conditions, or rehabilitating injuries. This seamless process allows you to allocate pre-tax dollars toward achieving your fitness goals. Whether you’re managing a chronic health condition or working on prevention, using these funds to pay for personal training makes it easier to stay on track. A Game-Changer for Clients with Pre-Existing Conditions For individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or cardiovascular disease, staying physically active is crucial for managing symptoms and improving overall health. A study from the American Heart Association  highlights the role of exercise in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, even for those already diagnosed with heart-related conditions . Personal training provides personalized, structured exercise plans that cater to individual needs, particularly for those with health challenges. By using HSA and FSA funds, clients can now invest in their long-term health without worrying about the financial strain. For example: Diabetes management : Exercise has been proven to help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity . A personalized training plan can support those with diabetes in maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Obesity and weight management : Working with a personal trainer provides a structured fitness routine that can help with sustainable weight loss, which is vital for preventing or managing a variety of health issues . Rehabilitation and injury prevention : If you're recovering from an injury or have joint-related issues, a trainer can create a tailored workout plan to safely build strength and mobility. Through our partnership with Trumed, individuals managing pre-existing conditions can now afford the tailored guidance they need for safer, more effective workouts. Research Shows Fitness Is Essential for Health Multiple studies emphasize the importance of physical activity for overall health, particularly when managing chronic conditions. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  states that regular exercise reduces the risk of developing chronic illnesses by up to 50%, and it also plays a critical role in managing existing conditions . With this new option of using HSA and FSA funds for personal training, clients can now more easily invest in their health, reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases, and better manage pre-existing conditions. A Win for the Fitness Industry and Rush Fit Training This partnership is a game-changer not only for Rush Fit Training but for the fitness industry as a whole. Allowing personal training services to be covered by HSA and FSA funds marks a significant shift in how fitness is perceived. It acknowledges that fitness is not just a luxury but a core component of maintaining health, managing medical conditions, and preventing future health issues. For Rush Fit Training, this partnership enhances our ability to serve a broader range of clients, from those starting their fitness journey to those with medical conditions requiring specialized training. Offering more accessible services not only benefits our clients but strengthens our position as an industry leader in fitness innovation. Ready to Get Started? If you’ve been considering personal training but have been concerned about the cost, now is the perfect time to take advantage of this new opportunity. With Rush Fit Training and Trumed working together, you can invest in yourself—your health and your future—without the financial stress. Contact us today to find out if you're eligible to use your HSA or FSA funds for personal training, and let’s take the next step in your fitness journey together

Choose your pricing plan Group Fitness (Unlimited) $ 200 200$ Every month Enjoy unlimited access to dynamic, trainer-led group workouts all month long. Perfect for building strength, endurance, and staying motivated with a fitness community! Select 10 Pack Class $ 180 180$ 10 pack of group fitness Classes Valid for 3 months Select Rush Fit Tribe Drop-In Workout $ 25 25$ Drop-in to our fun tribe group fitness class! Valid for one month Select Rush Fit Tribe Rush Fit Crew $ 360 360$ Every month 2 small group workouts a week Select Rush Fit Crew 8-session Package $ 600 600$ 8 private personal training sessions Valid for 3 months Select One-on-One Warriors 12 - Session Package $ 840 840$ 12 personal training sessions Valid for 3 months Select One-on-One Warriors 16 Session Package $ 1,040 1,040$ 16 personal training sessions Valid for 3 months Select One-on-One Warriors 1 Personal Training session $ 75 75$ 1 person training session Valid for 3 months Select One-on-One Warriors

Explore Welcome to Rush Fit, where we revolutionize fitness through personalized, genetics-based training. At Rush Fit, we believe that your DNA holds the key to unlocking your ultimate fitness potential. Our cutting-edge approach tailors workout routines and nutritional plans specifically to your unique genetic makeup, ensuring that every sweat session is optimized for your body. Say goodbye to one-size-fits-all approaches and hello to a fitness journey that's as individual as you are. Join us at Rush Fit and experience a new era of fitness where science meets sweat for unparalleled results. Your DNA, your fit – discover the difference at Rush Fit. Rush Fit LEARN MORE Get an unparalleled training experience that is completely customized to your DNA. Resulted in life changing results. DNA-BASED TRAINING Featured With 10 certifications in personal training including a certified DNA-Based trainer, Nathanael is the founder of Rush Fit. Meet Nathanael Rush DNA-Based Trainer Read More Unlock your fitness potential with our Blog. We tackle Blog The Fitness Hub Get Started Discover the difference with our DNA-Based personal training programs. DNA-Based fitness Personal Training Shop Now Shop the latest Rush Fit Merch By Rush Fit Shop Merch Our DNA-based personal training programs are the key to unlocking your true fitness potential. By analyzing your genetic makeup, we can create a workout plan that is tailored to your body's unique needs. This personalized approach ensures that every workout is optimized to your specific goals and limitations. Whether you're new to fitness or a seasoned athlete, Rush Fit can help you achieve your personal best. Exercise is Medicine Learn more Learn how DNA testing can change how you train. DNA BASED TRAINING Use HSA/FSA Dollar for exercise Rush fit has teamed up with TrueMed to help eligible clients connect with doctors and use their HSA/FSA dollars on personal training services at Rush Fit. Learn More Get started Ready to start your fitness journey? Get started now! Connect with us