The Ultimate New York Body Plan

I am not a big fan of fad diets. However, I once tried The Ultimate New York Body Plan by David Kirsch.

I have a black tie optional event to attend at the end of this month... a little more than 2 weeks from now. I want to both look and feel my best, and I'm seriously considering this plan again.

This 14-day plan includes both a diet and exercise program. The diet is very strict. It cuts out what he calls the ABCDEFs... alcohol, bread, starchy carbs, dairy, extra sweets and fruit. The diet is kinda hard for a vegan to follow, since it relies heavily on meat. It is definitely a low-carb type diet.

The exercise program is very intensive. Only people who are already fit can probably complete it, but he includes a "pre-program" for exercise for folks who need to start a little lighter. Generally speaking, however, expect to spend 1 to 1 1/2 hours on exercise each day.

Since the plan only lasts for 14 days, Kirsch seems to think that most people can stick with it. In my experience, however, only the very dedicated with make it through.

Nonetheless, the plan works. A pound a day of weight loss is not unusual, making it a great program if you're looking to trim down for a special event (like a black tie optional charity dinner).

Although Kirsch offers a maintenance program that allows you to gradually start eating carbs again, I imagine most people end up re-gaining all the weight.

But for a one-night/one-weekend event, this plan can help you slim down a little and feel a lot better about yourself.

I'm still not sure I'm going to try it. It's so low-carb that I always worry I won't have enough energy to complete my long runs... and I won't sacrifice running for anything. I may, however, try a modified version, with carbs added to my first few meals of the day.

I'll let you know what I decide.