Resistance Bands, Save $$ on Groceries & Step Goals
Resistance bands often get overlooked as a training implement. Although they don't look like much, they're a great piece of equipment to have around. You can pick up a 5-pack of varying resistance/thickness for about $25-$30.
They are excellent for warming up your muscles and joints prior to lifting. Starting with resistance band exercises can improve your flexibility and range of motion, making your body more resilient and less prone to injuries. The bands help activate smaller stabilizer muscles and increase blood flow to prepare you for more intense lifting.
Additionally, you can get a pretty solid workout with bands if you're short on time, travelling, or easing back into training after an injury or extended time off.
Example Band Warmup - 3 Rounds
- Band Pull-Aparts - 20 seconds
- Overhead Band Pull-Aparts - 20 seconds
- 5 SLOW REPS Band Dislocates
- Rest 30 Seconds
Save $$ on Groceries
Eating healthy does NOT have to be expensive. In fact, you'll likely SAVE money by bulk prepping your food and cutting down on the frequency of going out to eat. One of my favorite strategies for saving on groceries is to plan meals around what's on sale that week.
BOGO on chicken breast? Prep chicken. Steaks are on sale? Buy some of them too. Check the weekly ads and consider using that to dictate what to buy and prep. When your favorites are on sale, buy extra.
Get to know the guys and girls at the meat department. When meat gets close to the "sell by" date, they mark it down. Usually at least 50%! They may have all the markdowns in one particular section, or they may be mixed in with the other meats. Look for red or orange "markdown" or "manager special" tags. It's a great way to save - no more excuses to not get your protein in!
Step Goals
In the quest for good health, let's not forget the simplest, yet most effective tool in our arsenal: staying active with a daily step goal. It’s the nudge we all need to weave more movement into our jam-packed days.
Setting a step goal transforms this basic activity into a powerful habit.
Tracking your progress with a phone or fitness tracker is also another layer of accountability on you. Starting with a manageable target, like 5,000 steps, and gradually increasing it will pay dividends for your overall health. Combine this with resistance training and high-protein nutrition and you’ve got a solid foundation for a healthy, fit lifestyle.
Make it a great day :)
-Jesse Calus
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