Ten Life Hacks You Should Try Outside of the Gym

Ten Life Hacks You Should Try Outside of the Gym

 I have to check my math every time I write about this topic because it doesn't seem possible: I have trained almost every day for 32 years as a 46-year-old freshman who discovered the weight room when I was thin. I've trained multiple times per day for many of those years, so even with my remedial multiplication skills, I've done at least 15,000 workouts thus far... Why do I mention this? Because over those 32 years and more than 15,000 sessions, I have made a bazillion mistakes and learned even more amazing lessons. What we do outside the gym has a much greater impact on our bodies than what we do inside the gym is one of the most important lessons I've learned. Working out is definitely important, but even the best workouts won't make much of a difference to your body if you don't keep a strict schedule for the other 22 or 23 hours of the day. Even though this isn't a workout article, you might pick up a few tips that can make a big difference in how you look, feel, and perform!

These ten important routines and habits, which are not ranked in any particular order, can hopefully assist you in creating a steady and successful lifestyle:

NOTE: Some of these people have varying degrees of psychosis; how strict you are depends on your objectives and how serious you want to become to accomplish those objectives. You don't have to be so strict with your diet and lifestyle if you're laid back and not in a hurry. However, if you are determined to perform, feel, and look your best as soon as possible, you will need to dial in all of this 100%.

Sugar is harmful: Do you want to feel, look, and perform best? Sugar should not be eaten or drunk. Isn't that hard to say? It is. However, like any addiction, the longer you avoid it, the easier it gets.

Body fat is equal to beer: Sorry! I am as fond of a cold beer as the next guy, so I know this hurts. However, in all honesty, our bodies do not recognize it as fuel that can be burned, so we store it as fat.

Designed in advance for dessert: Sadly, many of us were taught as children to eat dessert after every meal. This "pre-programming" develops into a very strong habit that becomes our way of life. We Pavlov's dogs long for the sweet after we've finished salty and savory. Naturally, you can't eat dessert if you really want to change things (see No.1). Here are a few quick ways to combat this:

Gum should always be with you. After a meal, bite into a piece; the sweetness will "trick" your habits and hopefully satisfy your craving.

Is it possible for you to brush your teeth after eating? That is even better than chewing gum at curbing a sweet tooth.

In need of water or food: Our bodies sometimes mistake thirst for hunger. If you've eaten recently and shouldn't be hungry, try drinking a glass of water and waiting five minutes before eating. No matter what, the water will benefit you!

More stretches: Any good physical therapist will tell you that if more people did this simple thing every day, they would make a lot less money. You'll feel better everywhere if you work on strengthening your hamstrings and lower back. Being more flexible will also help you resist the urge to skip a few workouts. Preparation is everything: This can be utilized in several ways, but let's concentrate on nutrition. A successful week of progress or a stalled out week of "one step forward, one step back" can mean the difference between grocery shopping for two hours and planning ahead on a Sunday afternoon. Make use of a calendar, plan out the week, and a menu and schedule for your meals. It's that easy. Decisions made at the last minute rarely benefit a fitness lifestyle.

Bring some food: Does that sound stupid? Why bother? You must control your diet and your options if you really want to bring about change. Bring everything you need, including a toothbrush, drinks, snacks, and lunch. I know; eating out at lunchtime can be the best part of a long work day. However, I am unable to tell you the number of hundreds of restaurants my lunchbox has visited. Eat in the company of your friends! You can be discrete when it comes to healthy eating, but you should keep your word.

A fitness regimen can go anywhere: Don't give up on your fitness or discipline just because you have to go somewhere. Make every effort to prepare and arrive at informed choices. Remember also: Any kind of exercise is better than none at all. Simply move, breathe, and sweat—do not compare a travel workout to workouts at your local gym. You won't fall back.

Partner in education? Maybe?: About 5% of my workouts over the past 32 years have been with a partner. That does not imply that I am introverted or privileged. I simply have an insane schedule and, to be honest, never take days off. That you might have a great training partner is fantastic! However, your workouts may depend on that person's availability if you are dependent on them. That can't be the reason! You can't let anyone else's schedule dictate yours; you will keep your discipline no matter what.

Learn from your body: You might not like what he or she does. Regarding "what's best," very few universal laws exist. We must all listen to our bodies; refrain from doing something if it hurts. Avoid certain foods if you don't like them. On the other hand, consider the things you do and eat that make you feel good! What gives you energy, gives you strength, and "hooks" you? Do more of that!

Consistency is the single most important aspect of a fitness lifestyle. To keep your commitment every day, you must develop a self-disciplined strategy. Soon, you won't be able to live any other way because of these habits!

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