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Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe many of us know that exercising at least sometimes brings a lot of benefits that include not only our appearance but also makes us feel better, helps us forget about all our problems and maybe even motivates us to eat healthier. However, I am pretty sure many of us also just can’t bring ourselves to step into a gym or start running or do whatever sport we have in mind.

Luckily (or not), we are not alone. One Reddit user started a thread asking people online to share their fitness hacks that they have personally discovered that are absolutely game changers. So, folks, if you struggle to start working out or actually enjoy it - scroll on through to find out more, complete with an interview with Joey Thurman, fitness/nutrition expert and Gina Harney, women’s fitness specialist who shared even more useful tips!

More info: Reddit

#1

30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising I have a show I only watch while I'm at the gym. So if I want to watch an episode of Supernatural, I have to go workout. And it also is an easy timer for me to make sure I work out for at least 40-45 minutes.

Ghostseverywhere , William Choquette Report

Katrina Nixon
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I need to be relaxed for a show!

Sharkfin6
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

After the second or third rewatch, SPN does become a relaxing show lol.

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Mark Fergel
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's actually not a bad idea, though it would be tough to watch a show and bench press/squat.

Jane, Not Plain
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes! Australian shows are great for the gym because you need to listen intently to get through the accent and learn their swear words. LOL

Alexandra Nara
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I fail if there are cliffhangers, can't workout for another hour, but need to know how it's going on

John Haley
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I do this for some of my favourite shows. At the moment I'm walking through Band of Brothers and it feels wrong to not be on the treadmill while I watch it. After a couple of minutes I forget I'm walking. Do the same with films if I'm after an extra long workout. Action films are the best. I walked through the first 2 John Wick films the other day and didn't notice till I stopped and kinda collapsed on the sofa.

David Bowlby
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I use dinner this way. If I want to eat dinner, I have to go the gym first.

RELATED:
    #2

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Did you know you don't have to do burpees to get fit? I didn't but now I do, I'm a much happier person. f**k burpees.

    SammyGeorge , Annushka Ahuja Report

    Beeps
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Absobloodylutely f**k burpees. Even the name is stupid. Does anyone know why they’re called that?

    SadieCat17 (she/her)
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The creator looked at already established exercises and decided that they weren't high impact and painful enough.

    Sharkfin6
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Adding to this thread, f*ck the stair master too. I forced myself to do 10 minutes at a slow pace and my lower half is still screaming in pain 3 days later.

    #3

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising S****y workouts. Instead of skipping the gym entirely on the days you're not motivated, allow yourself to go there and do whatever you enjoy the most. Even if it doesn't align with your workout program. This will help you maintain momentum.

    SaltyAd9996 , Andrea Piacquadio Report

    William Teach
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Boom, this is a great one. Sometimes just go and do whatever. You don't have to just do your set routine. It's actually good to break routine. Use different machines and free weight angles.

    Blondie23
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Listen guys... a crappy workout is better than no workout. There are days I am just not into it at all. So I will tell myself... just go move your body. Then at least I have done more than the people still laying in bed!

    Gossameringue
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "allow yourself to go there and do whatever you enjoy the most" - this assumes you're up to enjoying anything at the gym that day.

    zububonsai
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes, the "Have fun!" Days. I usually do something I never dared before or a sport I didn't do for ages. Like, in the last 5 years I started ice-skating (again), play badminton with my daughter (after a 30year gap), play table tennis with my partner. Now we're on a waiting list for a Swing/Lindy Hop dance class....

    zububonsai
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    ...and it never ever feels like "serious sport/ a workout session". Just a lot of fun.

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    Mark Fergel
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I tried this. Got kicked out of the gym. Apparently you can't take beer to the gym and sit around and drink. So much for doing what you enjoy the most. Who knew.

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    “Forget about that daunting ‘one-hour workout’ myth. Who’s got time for that anyway?” shared Joey Thurman with Bored Panda. “You’re living in the 21st century, not on a deserted island with nothing but time and coconuts.”

    “Here’s the game plan: Sneak in a quick 10-minute arm blast between those never-ending phone calls in your home office,” he emphasized. “Think of it as a secret mission to save the world, one bicep curl at a time. Then, during lunch, drop a 5-minute squat challenge like it’s hot. Aim for sets of 20-30, and pretend you’re dodging laser beams or squashing tiny monsters under your feet. Fun, right?”

    #4

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising M60. I quit the gym and got a dog. I walk/jog/trot for 3 to 5 miles per day. Outside exercise is the best. Three days a week I go for a longer walk. One day I go fast on a flat trail. And two days a week I do intense hills with a twist: Do the uphills going backwards or sideways. That is my leg day. Then walk fast on the flats and take my time on the down hill sections. Two days per week I do to the dog park and stand around so the dog can play with other dogs. And I chat with the humans. When there is yard work I trade out the long walks for yard work. Raking, sawing, clipping, chopping, etc for the upper body work out. I have 3 acres of orchard to tend so this works out if I use all hand tools. The only thing left now is to train this dog to attract single women my age. If I could get this dog to give me an opening with that woman in the purple coat I could be happy forever! /humor, or wishful thinking.

    MontEcola , David Iglesias Report

    The Doom Song
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I lost like 5kg just from walking the dog everyday

    Belladonna.dreams
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This would be much easier if I had decent weather year round. Wisconsin is difficult and great Danes don't like the cold or jackets....

    ROSESARERED
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Love the purple coat reference ...hopefully with a Ted hat that doesn't match. Google when I get old....wear purple

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    #5

    Get a dog! When I lived overseas staying in shape was easier...lots of walking, more affordable gym memberships, stairs.... Here in the states I take 10 steps to my car and 10 steps inside. Getting a dog (the best guy having the hardest time at the humane society) costs less than the gym per month (don't math me on that), everything I own is covered in hair, and I take him for a walk at 730 every morning. we usually end up jogging a bit, working our way up to a 5k and beyond. Literally just needed a reason to leave my house and now I also get to fall in love all over again. He farted while I was writing this and I had to leave the room. Its all about movement.

    once_upon_a_handj*b Report

    The Doom Song
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    At 530am every morning I get woken up by my boy who wants to go for his morning walk. Now I've been doing this for two and a half years it's just part of my morning routine. Yep even in winter

    Jonesy
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "He farted while I was writing this and I had to leave the room. Its all about movement." I just love it!

    Zaach
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I kind of wish I could get a dog but only recently did I realize that having my first 3 dogs killed on purpose before I was 12 (run over, poisoned, 'put down') kind of ruined dogs for me

    Alexandra Nara
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    😁 he just fart to keep you fit ? Good boy

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    “But wait, there’s more! Don’t just park yourself in one spot all day. Take three separate 10-15 minute walks,” he added. “Imagine each walk is a mini adventure. Maybe you’re exploring the jungle (a.k.a. your neighborhood), discovering new lands (the park down the street), or simply enjoying the great outdoors with all its wonders (squirrels included).”

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    “So, there you have it.” Joey emphasized that exercise doesn’t have to be a chore or a bore - break it up, make it fun, and before you know it, you’ve nailed your fitness goals without even realizing it. “Time to turn your day into an action-packed adventure, one mini-workout at a time.”

    #6

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising I hate running but I enjoy walking on an incline on the treadmill I have to spend a little more time on it but that's ok.

    WaitWhyNot , Andrea Piacquadio Report

    Sharkfin6
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    12-3-30 works for me on a treadmill. 12-level incline, 3mph, for 30 mins.

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    treadmills are ok, if you absolutely have to be inside (or watch a show, as previously mentioned), but actually walking/running somewhere is so much better for you physically and mentally

    Marty Sunderland
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I’m 78, not always steady on my feet, have copd so hilly land is a problem. Also it rains a lot where I live. I wish I could afford a small lightweight treadmill.

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    #7

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising I always burned myself out when getting into a routine. Going slow and making incremental adjustments over time really is keeping me from hating it!

    Jlmorgan86 , Andres Ayrton Report

    Katrina Nixon
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is a great one, so easy to overdo it.

    keyboardtek
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In particular stretching can be overdone and actually create more pain and injury. And we tend to be competitive in an exercise class or at the gym so you feel you have to get as far as you can into a stretch. Abandon the ego and stop comparing yourself to others. Just go into the stretch to the point of being at the edge of discomfort. Then since it takes fifteen seconds for your brain to even realize you want to relax a muscle, just hang out at the easy stretch point. More easy reps of a stretch eventually will relax the tissue.

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    Data1001
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes! Start much more slowly than you think you should, initially. Then add a bit more time (or a bit more weight, depending on what you're doing) every week or two. Before you know it, you'll be at a pretty decent level, and it'll be easier to keep it up. Plus, you're far less likely to hurt yourself or get so sore you can't move the next day (which can often lead people to just up and quit).

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    Now, we asked Joey to share a few misconceptions about working out that he has encountered - “Myth Buster Alert: ‘No pain, no gain’ is about as outdated as flip phones,” he pointed out. “Thinking exercise needs to hurt is a one-way ticket to Ouch Town, and trust me, you don’t want a season pass.”

    Moreover, he emphasized that muscle soreness is NOT the VIP badge of a good workout. “Can I say that louder for the people in the back? Just because you’re not walking around like a penguin after leg day doesn’t mean you haven’t done your body a solid.”

    #8

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Fun. If it’s fun, you’ll keep coming back. This is why I joined a climbing gym.

    jimcol , Allan Mas Report

    zububonsai
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I made my stepdaughter, then 17/18 and "avid gym- goer", to attend my Krav Maga training. After the first session she shouted enthusiastically to all the others (like, grown up police officers, Bundeswehr Special forces personnel ...) "This is so much more fun than going to the gym! 😍"

    keyboardtek
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why I love swimming is because you do not sweat, can float and have fun.

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    #9

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising You can’t out run a bad diet is the number one rule I live by.

    xzsazsa , Jenna Hamra Report

    Dan Flo
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah, it is actually alot easier to not eat a 300 kcal chocolate bar than to run for 30 min straight.

    Nicely
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That makes no sense. It's much easier to *eat* a chocolate bar than it is to run for 30 minutes, in any direction.

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    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I eat healthy most of the time, and try to only "cheat" after a good workout. Then I still get to eat everything I want to, and feel like I've earned it

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    “Crush It, Not Smash It: Not every workout needs to be an epic saga of you versus the gym equipment. Sometimes, just moving enough to not merge with your couch is golden.”

    Joey summarized saying that your fitness journey doesn’t have to be a blockbuster action movie with high stakes and dramatic outcomes. “Think of it more like a delightful sitcom—some ups, some downs, but always moving forward, one chuckle (or step) at a time.”

    “Aim for progress, not perfection, and remember, a little movement goes a long way towards your goals.”

    #10

    As an almost 50-year old woman, heavy weight lifting. We were told our whole lives to do endless cardio and lift light weights so we wouldn’t “bulk”. Nothing has changed my body composition, fitness and strength like REAL weight training. I wish I’d known 20 years ago what I know now.

    Sorry-Escape3904 Report

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    it's unfortunate that stereotype exists... that a girl with muscles will look too masculine. I personally think it's a very attractive quality.

    Blondie23
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    YES!!! I am almost 50 and I can tell you... lift those heavy weights!!!! I don't have big bulging muscles. You only get that from the d***s. But... by lifting heavy you can avoid becoming frail as you age and will allow you to be way more active!!!!!!

    HangryHangryHippo
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This! I have back problems (a severely herniated disc) and was told by a doctor at my worst that I would never be able to lift weights. After improving my health (swimming is an awesome exercise!) I found a weight routine/training method that works for me. Been training for almost 3 years and never had another lower back episode. Started very slow... Body weigh and static contraction exercises, then adding bands and one year in, with machines/weights. Search for HIST, it changed my life.

    #11

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Well, I've discovered that vigorously dancing around my living room pretending I'm in a music video burns just as many calories as a gym session. Plus, I get to practice my award-winning air guitar skills at the same time! Who needs a treadmill when you've got imaginary crowds cheering you on?

    GathersRock , SHVETS production Report

    La Lucy
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My audience is my cat, and he is not amused !

    New Everywhere
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Dancing is my preferred work out. Cleaning can be good too, I just pick up my pace and use my muscles deliberately (squat to pick up, calf lift to reach something, keep my core tight)

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    Finally, different opinions and misconceptions sometimes may discourage us from engaging in regular exercising or even starting this journey. Luckily, Joey listed a few things that can help you easily flip the script on exercise!

    Firstly, he pointed out that it’s important to shift that mindset. “Viewing exercise as a chore is like thinking of chocolate as just another vegetable. It’s not something you ‘have to do’; it’s a privilege, a celebration of what your body can do! Exercise is like being given the keys to a sports car every day—why wouldn’t you take it for a joyride?”

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    “Inside Out Fitness: Remember, the main event is happening on the inside.” He then explained that we're talking heart health, brain boosts, and stress busts. “The physical changes? Those are just the encore, the cherry on top of a well-being sundae.”

    #12

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Work from home only trick: I used to try to wake up earlier to workout and failed miserably. I'm not a morning person. However, I can wake up 30-45' earlier if the prize is a cup of coffee, a quiet room (the two kids will wake up shortly) and start my work routine: e-mail checking, prepare for the day... Now I created a 30'-45' buffer to take a break from work sometime later that day. And I use it to workout. When you've been working non-stop for 3-4 hours, your body will crave the workout, because it is a way to stop working. So now I workout nearly every weekday. Hope it helps sompebody!

    Javichuchuchu , Tima Miroshnichenko Report

    HangryHangryHippo
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you can, add an under desk walking treadmill to the WFH setup! I tried first with a mini bike and failed miserably, but was able to stick the treadmill for more than a year! I try to finish my day with my desk in the standing position, and begin the next walking. Before noon, boom! My 10k steps are done ✅

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    #13

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising It’s so basic but there is very little that water will not improve. Got a headache? Drink some water. Drowsy? Drink water. Sick? Drink water. Food cravings? Drink water.

    BenjaminTW1 , Pixabay Report

    zububonsai
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Feeling tired during the day? Drink some water.

    La Lucy
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I drink a ton of water a day, usually 200 to 300 unces/7 to 9 liters. Still get headaches, tired and food cravings. If one is chronically dehydrated this works, but doesn't for a lot of people.

    Turd Ferguson
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have you tried coconut water? I don't care for the taste personally (my son likes it), but there is nothing better for hydration.

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    Weasel Wise
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Feeling hungry? Drink some water. Oh, wait, we aren't trying to hack into developing an eating disorder.

    Another thing that it’s important to keep in mind is to think of exercise as investing in your personal stock. “It’s like putting away time in a high-interest savings account. The more you put in, the more you get to enjoy later, with interest, with your family and friends.”

    He finished by saying that we should start thinking of exercise as the ultimate form of self-care, a daily holiday, or a personal party you’re always invited to. “It’s not about what you ‘have to do’—it’s about embracing the joy and the journey of what you ‘GET to do’!”

    #14

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Mine is like, they say dress for the job you want. But I also use this for the body you want. I try to usually dress in workout clothes like my sweats or gym shirts or shorts. It usually puts me in the frame of mind to workout or wanna workout. Reminds me to actually get my workout in when I don't want too.

    Cipskye , MART PRODUCTION Report

    Wysteria_Rose
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Buy outfits that not only feel comfortable but also look great and you'll want to put them on. I just had to do a gym clothes haul (older ones were getting holes) and I was excited to put them on and put them to use.

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    after I started working from home, I'm basically in workout mode attire 24/7... always ready! LOL

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    #15

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Paying a ridiculous amount for group fitness classes to ensure my dumb a*s works out.

    DanielDannyc12 , Andrea Piacquadio Report

    Howl's sleeping castle
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We have a gym in our apartment complex. The fee is included in the maintenance charges but I never go there because it 'feels' free as it's nominal compared to what gyms charge. I used to pay 3 times of this and never missed a day

    Weasel Wise
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh, so the hack here is to have a bunch of money so that you can afford to live with a free gym, waste that opportunity, and then spend a ridiculous amount of money to have a second gym. You do you but please stop mentioning your "hacks".

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    Julius Zuke
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My county has senior citizen centers which is a haven for crafters, musicians, card players, day-trippers, and much more. We have gyms in some of them for $80 per year. It's very easy to exercise regularly when so many activities are under the same roof. Push your local lawmakers for these centers if your area doesn't have one!

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    well money aside, it is WAY easier to get in shape when others are putting together your workouts, enforcing proper technique and making you accountable

    So, guys - don’t forget to check out Joey Thurman’s book “The Minimum Method” and his free workout app FunFitnessBros!

    Also, visit his Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube pages, where you can find plenty of motivations, exercises and lots of useful information for your fitness journey!

    #16

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Couch to 5K program. Lifelong couch potato, but got to start working from home during the pandemic, started running with my dad. Now I can run a 5K during my lunch breaks. I sleep better, my digestion improves (I believe I had GERD, because I was always waking up in the middle of the night wanting to throw up), and I had a general improvement in my mental and physical health.

    TheNerdChaplain , RF._.studio Report

    Weasel Wise
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hack: don't inherent shìtty genes that lead to arthritis and osteoporosis before you're even 20. Also, have at least one parent who isn't awful that you can enjoy the luxury of health with while running.

    GreyWolfGirl
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hey friend! Maybe you could try swimming? It works for people I know with joint issues or problems with pain.

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    Mark Fergel
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've been wanting to try this app

    Kristal
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Uhm, why would you throw up with GERD? It's the muscle at the bottom of esophagus/top of stomach that is weak and allows stomach acid to come up into the esophagus and throat, causing heartburn. It just doesn't keep the acid contained very well.

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    #17

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising For me it's frozen mango. Used to routinely fail my calorie goals because of my guilty pleasure for ice cream and chocolate. Now I prefer a bowl of frozen mango left to defrost for 10 mins to either of my old favorites, and it's but a fraction of the calories and lower in price.

    neurobonkers , Riki Risnandar Report

    Bec
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Frozen banana slices, any frozen fruit in the summer is delightful

    NennyRoh
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Watermelon and/or strawberries (when the season is right) are also my go-to sweets

    Maim
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I put frozen dark sweet cherries in my non-fat greek vanilla yogurt every morning. It's like dessert for breakfast! Yum!

    Kristal
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sugar free pudding packs (powder) mixed with whipped cream, then frozen. It's like ice cream :)

    Auntriarch
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Frozen blueberries dropped into plain greek yogurt

    Moreover, Bored Panda contacted Gina Harney, who is a personal trainer, women’s fitness specialist, PN nutrition coach and blogger.

    “I think that it's important to remember that consistency isn't about intensity,” she shared. “All movement counts, and a little bit of movement every day is much better than skipping your workout for days at a time because you're too sore, or you feel like it needs to be long or intense to count.”

    Gina added that she tries to add in little bits of movement where she can, whether it’s gardening, walking her dog, walking on the walking pad during long calls, or dance parties with the kids!

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    #18

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Intense workouts are good but don't forget to take recovery days. They're so important and easy to forget.

    UnderstandingLoud317 , Yaroslav Shuraev Report

    Marie Clear
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Every day is a recovery day for me. I never forget to take them!

    Michael
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A caveat being that people drastically over-estimate what constitutes a hard workout. Coupled with gym equipment massively overstating calories burned during a session. Sadly 'hard' comes with a pinch of salt

    #19

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising I won’t say the name because I’m not a shill, but my wife talked me into going to a place where it’s basically a 1 hour workout, high intensity and interval (they change it up a bit every time) that has a combination of treadmill, rowing, and weights/anaerobic. 20 minutes each station. Before this, I was not a fan of clubs like lifetime because I found myself wandering around looking for the next thing I thought I should do. At this place, it’s all laid out for me. I don’t have to think, just do. And I kick my own a*s, because when the heart rate gets high, I get more “points”. I gained a good amount of weight last year, and I’ve lost about 13 pounds in the last month. I’m back in the game!

    Doc-in-a-box , Julia Larson Report

    SadieCat17 (she/her)
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The prevalence of advertising has absolutely rotted our perception of recommendations lol.

    E.V.
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I need to know where this is!

    A. HAM
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It’s a chain called OrangeTheory. They’re located in many states, Google it, there may be one near you.

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    im2tense
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If it is what I think it is called Orange Fitness. I belonged a few years ago and it will make you sweat.

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    We also were curious to learn about the most common misconceptions about working out and Gina shared - that there’s one ideal way to work out. She emphasized that there are so many types of workouts out there and the best one for you is something that you enjoy and that you'll do consistently.

    “I also think it's common to think that a workout will outdo your lifestyle, when in reality, the 23 hours each day that you're not at the gym are even more important than your workout,” she pointed out. “How are you spending your time? How's sleep? Stress? Overall movement? Nutrition? All of these things make a significant impact when it comes to achieving health or wellness goals.”

    #20

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Treat your fitness regimen as the motivator for making other complementary lifestyle choices, rather than treating it as something done to pay off the debt of other choices. For example, "I'm going to eat reasonably tonight so that I'm in my best form for tomorrow morning's workout". Eat because you exercise, rather than exercise because you eat.

    lthth , Annushka Ahuja Report

    Carol Culhane
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'd rather eat because I require food, food is delicious, and a great way to connect with my family at the end of each day. Statements like eat because you exercise are problematic

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    the point is that it's a bad approach to exercise as punishment for eating unhealthy. Instead use exercise as an excuse to eat healthier (lifestyle change). Enjoying a healthy lifestyle AND eating delicious food while connecting with family and friends is still possible

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    Maim
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't agree with this. Eating gives me pleasure. I would like to eat my fettuccine Alfredo cause I know I worked out well during the day.

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    this one pairs nicely with the one about doing something fun. When you have a fun way to stay in shape you are motivated not to eat c**p that slows you down

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    #21

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Having a piece of equipment in my home. I know it’s not possible for everyone, but I got a Peloton last year and it’s been the first time I’ve stayed consistent with a workout routine. I’m on a 32 week streak and still going strong.

    literarylagers , Element5 Digital Report

    Katrina Nixon
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And if you can"t afford it or don"t have the room, there's always air guitar.

    Alex Boyd
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you have space for equipment but not much money, check thrift shops--ones that have a furniture section will often take exercise equipment. I got a treadmill for $25; I only stuck with using it for a few months, but for that price I got my money's worth.

    badger
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I bet you've lost £££ too.

    Gina also noted that it's easy to feel overwhelmed when you focus on workouts you don't enjoy, but you feel like you *should* be doing. “If you hate running, don't force yourself to run. Take a dance class, spin class, go for a hike, or do something you enjoy instead!”

    She shared that it’s so much easier to be consistent when you actually enjoy what you are doing! “It's also easy to do too much too quickly. Ask yourself if your current routine is something you'd want to maintain forever. If the answer is no, it might be a good time to scale back or find something that you look forward to each day.”

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    #22

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising This is more of a diet hack, but unfollow all of the restaurants/food related stuff on social media. I find the more I see the more it triggers me to eat (not necessarily out to these places, just down to my kitchen)! Be mindful of the scent of candles or wall plug ins you use…no joke, like clockwork when I burn my maple syrup candle all I want is sweets! Any sweet food related candle or plug in does this to me. These two things have really helped me stay on track.

    sugar182 , Ylanite Koppens Report

    Howl's sleeping castle
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Very true. So many times we cancelled Cooking something healthy dinner at home and ordered food from a restaurant because we watched something food related on YouTube

    Belladonna.dreams
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I refuse to buy anything like that that smells like food because it makes me hungry

    Kristal
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Huh, interesting. I hate food smelly artificial scents, they make me want to throw up for some reason.

    #23

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Progressive overload is key. Too many people do the same s**t every week and wonder why they're not making any gains. I know people who for years do the same exercises with the same weight and are truly confused why they've plateaued.

    Over-Bid-8083 , Andres Ayrton Report

    keyboardtek
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wisdom is knowing at what point you do not need to al;ways "gain". A daily short moderate exercise routine for health maintenance is perfectly fine.

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    Finally - don’t forget to check out Gina’s blog The Fitnessista where she shares healthy recipes and workouts!

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    And coming back to exercise hacks - upvote your favorites and share in the comments your working out game changers! Don’t forget - it’s never too late to start working out!

    #24

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Get yourself a pullup bar. They fit into the doorframe and can come off and on without tools in less than 2 seconds. Put it in the doorway to your bathroom. The tax to using the bathroom is doing pull ups to failure. Pull ups to failure take literally 10 seconds for someone who is untrained and less than 60s for someone who is good at them. Every time you p**s, s**t, brush your teeth, etc you do as many pull ups as you can. At first it will be 0, 1, 2. In a month you'll be cranking them out and you'll feel good about yourself to get going at other stuff.

    Ilosesoothersmaywin , Victor Freitas Report

    Maim
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I do this with walking. In my office building, the bathroom is nearby. I take the longest way possible and drink water along the way each bathroom trip. I'm getting my steps in, plus drinking water, which leads me to having to go the bathroom more often, drink more, get steps.. its a cycle. Just don't wait until you're DYING to use the bathroom to do this! LOL

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    #25

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Meal prep. Planning out the week's meals, cooking everything on Sunday, then stocking the fridge for the week really helps me stick to a meal plan.

    originalchaosinabox , Mike Jones Report

    Kristal
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wish I had the energy and time to do this. I used to, but I've gotten too busy and my energy is just so much smaller in quantity than in the past. I miss some of the meals I would cook

    Alex Boyd
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Snack prep, too! I make up little boxes with cheese, almonds, and fruit (usually grapes, unless something else is on sale); another container with raw veggies (carrots, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, snap peas--I usually have about 3 kinds each week), and then a third one of cut up fruit (melon, berries, pineapple, whatever's either on sale at Aldi, or in season locally). I make up enough of each box for the work week, and then I have to get through the day's rations before I can even think about getting some Doritos out of the vending machine.

    #26

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising If you want to GAIN, you have to EAT. What you do in the gym is less important than what your diet and recovery regimen (sleep) can do.

    AnElkaWolfandaFox , Nathan Cowley Report

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    also, if you want to LOSE, you should still EAT. Better portion control and food choices versus cutting meals out. Starvation diets never work

    keyboardtek
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Knowing what your body type is can be important. A slender Ectomorph will never have the bulging muscles that a Mesoporph will have. No reason to bust your back trying to even get them.

    #27

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Doing it first thing. It was hard to find the motivation to get off of my a*s after work and cycle to an overcrowded gym. Now I get up 3 hours earlier than I used to, get out of bed without even thinking about it and hop on my bike to go. The gym is empty, I get my day started by accomplishing something good for me, and in the afternoon I even feel guilty about not going to the gym, until I remember I already did.

    James12052 , hi room Report

    John Haley
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The cycling thing I actually get. I bought a bike last year and cycle to and from work. It's like 6 miles each way. It only takes me 20 minutes longer than driving and I save a lot of petrol money. The bike paid for itself in about 5 months. I'm saving money, fitter than I was and have actually started to really enjoy it. The one down side is riding on the roads terrifies me still. Thankfully I only have to ride about 1.5 miles before there is a bike path the rest of the way. After 30 odd years on the road in a steel box, only having a coat and helmet as protection makes me feel so vulnerable.

    Summer Woodsong
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Here as seniors we find it works best first thing in the morning. In addition to getting busy and finding other things to do, our energy is significantly more available then that it would be later. That doesn't mean that first thing in the morning might not be 7 or even 9 am, but before we eat and get busy around the farm.

    TheGirlWhoWoreGlasses
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I am not a morning person. When I do a 5K that starts early, my time is much worse than my after work run.

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I used to wake up at 5am to play basketball with a group before work a couple times a week. I did that for years, but the Pandemic broke that up. I've been struggling ever since to get back into a routine that works like that again

    seasidecav
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I only started going to a gym about 3 months ago. I love going really early, not many people.

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    #28

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Diet is possibly even more than 80% of it. CICO works. (That said, hardcore sticking to it is HARD.. well maybe not hard per se but requires a ton of conscious effort.).

    Single_Wasabi_3683 , Anthony Leong Report

    Ace
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The 'Calorie Controlled Diet' has been the benchmark for losing weight for decades. This seems to be a new name for the same thing. Not sure why ot;'s in here with exercise advice though.

    SadieCat17 (she/her)
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But remember if you keep the "calories in" part too low over a long period of time, your metabolism can become permanently damaged and slowed. Years of eating disorders in middle/high school taught me that one the hard way. Eat plenty of healthy foods (yes, even if they have evil calories) and exercise to stay fit.

    #29

    Pre workout. I have this one made from green tea that's amazing. Able to get a boost for my workout without the sudden crash or prolongs restlessness afterwards. Edit: aminolean energy.

    Shadow948 Report

    #30

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising If you drink alchohol, soft drinks or have a habit of snacking, losing weight is as simple as stopping one or more of these habits.

    Formal_Initial_5385 , Lisa Fotios Report

    JenniB
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It sounds so simplistic but it's true. I even prefer to grab an apple over a bag of chips now, never thought that would happen! I cut drinking wine from 3-4 times a week to maybe once a week/once every two weeks and not only did my weight go down but my face, skin and hair are so much better. Cutting most if not all sugar has been amazing.

    Belladonna.dreams
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've been eating junk the past few weeks and I can definitely tell. I actually prefer fruits and veggies.

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    While pursuing a healthier lifestyle, it's essential to be aware of how media platforms can shape our perceptions. There's a growing discourse around aspirational imagery in fitness advertising, as seen with recent backlash.

    For example, people are pushing back against impossible standards set by luxury brands, and instead, turning to humor and memes to expose and debunk these portrayals.

    #31

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising After I had kids I paid for stupid expensive gym classes like BFT, F25, Orange Theory so if I missed classes I had to pay and then I’d get myself back in the habit and quit. It was the only way I could get back into going to the gym consistently. Also, rest - it’s good for you. Choose exercise you enjoy. Walking is exercise. EDIT: I wasn't super clear, I quit the workout classes but didn't stop working out.

    redditaccount1_2 , Andrea Piacquadio Report

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's a great hack! I think maintaining a good routine is one of most important and hardest things to accomplish. Doing those classes gets you into a schedule and gives you a plethora of workouts you can eventually do on your own

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    #32

    Ingredient swaps. I'm down 40 pounds over the past 10 months largely thanks to calorie tracking and meal prepping. Ingredient swaps have helped me keep my food interesting and tasty, but still fit in my calorie budget. For example, instead of a traditional queso dip, I can make a decent one with blended cottage cheese as the base. Carb counter tortillas on burrito night. 93% lean beef instead of 80 or 85. Hot sauce on lots of things instead of higher calorie sauces.

    Spartannia Report

    #33

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Crunches aren't needed for nice abs when the rest of your workout is on point.

    judgejuddhirsch , Gustavo Fring Report

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Crunches aren't recommended at all. Every time you do crunches you cause microtears in the membranes that surround your spinal column and vertebral discs.

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    #34

    30 Fitness Hacks People Discovered That Made Them Struggle Less With Exercising Intermittent fasting.... Breakfast was always meh to me, but i realized about 6 years ago that my body runs much better without any food until noon. My workouts are much better also when in the morning right before ending the fasting time frame.

    scotsman3288 , Emrah Tolu Report

    Weasel Wise
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hack: don't eat. Why waste time learning about your own body and how it uses calories which would allow you to eat properly and not feel loagy? You can temporarily feel better and lose weight if you just develop an unhealthy relationship with yourself and food and just don't eat!! Ta-da! Now you're chronically bìtchy, you're building your skills in self-delusion, AND you're losing weight!! That's incredible productivity all due to fasting; so, really, fasting just makes us, like, triple awesome which I think counts as super human, just under being vegan. 😂

    Margie Ang
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Studies are not yet conclusive for men, whereas for women it's already established that intermittent fasting is bad for the female hormonal cycles so women should definitely NOT use it.

    Castles
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Same. I always find that if I eat breakfast I will get hunger pangs and be starving by lunch which means il have a big lunch. If I don’t have breakfast I can go easily with out the hunger and eat a normal size lunch

    JenniB
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Intermittent fasting seems to always be sold as "skipping breakfast". When I was in my absolute best shape of my life I stopped eating around 5-6pm and ate breakfast, same number of hours, why does any meal have to be skipped? Breakfast, lunch and dinner can all fit, fuel your body people!

    #35

    Not really a game charger but I try to max out at 8. If I can do more than 8, I increase the load until it's 8. If I can't do 8, I maybe dip the weight a bit until it's 8. But pretty much 8. And it's anything. From bench, to triceps, biceps, back, shoulders, rows, anything. 8.

    Dracomies Report

    iBlank
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    depends on what you're going for... more weight + less reps = strength/mass; less weight + more reps = endurance/tone

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    #36

    As a woman, to eat more. Not eat cleaner or track macros, just eat more food/calories. Society expects women to stay small and the anxiety of getting fat from eating more is very pervasive. I ate more calories over winter break and when I came back to the gym, the treats were a little hard to let go but my lifting numbers were passing my stagnant lifts. For me, an indicator to eat more is when I wouldn't eat enough carbs in the day and my body physically felt like it ran out of fuel in the middle of a workout. I should have known I was barely maintaining my calories for how hard I was going.

    altergeeko Report

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