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How To Get In Shape

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In shape

I am not a big fitness guy, which is why I’m able to write about it. Because, unlike Youtube guys or targeted ads, I have no vested interest in making absurd claims. I am not here to GET YOU BUFF or to tell you about A MIRACLE FOOD that SCIENTISTS HATE.

No spam, okay? Just simple advice that m0st of us, myself included, could use to have on the mind here and there.

1. Be Good To Yourself

If you’re dieting or forcing yourself to get in shape, guess what? You’re going to hate it.

That’s relevant for two big reasons. The first is that in general you should be nice to yourself. You are not your flaws, or, more accurately, your insecurities. You are a person and you should be nice to yourself as you’d be nice to any random person at a party.

The second is that if you hate it, it’s not going to work.

Don’t get me wrong: going no-carbs and two hours of treadmill a day is probably going to work, but at what cost? And how much are you going to resent it, to get mad and frustrated as the whole process takes you away from your friends, away from your happiness and otherwise overwhelms your life?

And then you’re going to quit.

That’s because sticking with something is hard- way harder than just having a good idea is. So if you’re going to succeed, you have to be happy with it.

2. Moderation

Similarly, moderation is the best way to go. Not just for treats and naps, but for working out and dieting as well. There’s a reason “cheat days” are considered an important part of even very strict routines, and that’s because we as people need moderation. We need to feel like we’re humans and separate from the full grind of our routine.

If we go as hard as we can, we’re going to absolutely crash in enforcing our own schedule. But if we take breaks and work as needed, it’s a lot more balanced and likely to succeed in the longer run.

So be moderate. Even in your moderation. Chicken and waffles is still important to have now and then.

3. Enjoyment

Find something you really love and stick with that.

Change the script! Do you love basketball? Play all the time. Do you like fruit or did you find a salad you like a bunch but costs a little bit more? Have it a lot more. Once you find the angle into good health that contributes to a good mood, your heart, mind and body are all going to be on the same page. And that’s going to be awesome.

Find something you enjoy that’s good for you and stick with it. You’ll be a lot more likely to remain healthy and happy besides.


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About

Lev Novak is a recent graduate of Tufts University. He has currently shopping his first novel, and has previously written for College Humor and Hack College.

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