Treat Yo Self this New Year: Get into Better Shape
Let’s keep this ball rolling and review some more common, and some uncommon, resolutions and how to properly treat yo self to make sure you accomplish them.
So you’ve stepped on a scale and don’t like what number is staring back at you. Maybe that shirt you really like is fitting just a little too snug. That belt has to be loosened one more notch to best fit. Whatever the reason, I want to first applaud you for making the conscious effort to get into shape.
I had the same harsh reality hit me near the end of 2016. Gained way to much weight after six quick months of being in the “real world.” Took me nearly a year to get back to where I wanted to be. It’s a slow process, but I got to where I wanted.
Alright, let me hop off my soapbox. First things first, getting in shape starts and ends in the kitchen. If you’re not eating right, you might as well not be even trying. I’m no dietician or health expert, but simple steps like bringing in your lunch, eating a simple and filling breakfast and adding some veggies to your dinner can make a world of difference. Your waistline and wallet will thank you.
Before we get to the gear, let’s look at where you’ll work on this resolution.
Gym Membership
Budget
Typically you can find a month when they have a $1 sign up fee and at $10 a month you’re riding pretty. It’s a fantastic starter gym and the “no judgment zone” is pretty legitimate. Typically, no wannabe bodybuilders or Instagram models will be found at a Planet Fitness. They’re everywhere so I’m sure there’s one close to your home or office.
TREAT YO SELF
This is a pretty sweet app that I originally heard about from Style Girlfriend. It’s all the best classes in the majority of cities across the U.S. Search and sign-up all in one App. They currently have a 70% off any of their plans, pretty sweet deal for an App that typically costs you a good amount per month.
Free
Working out from home is possibly the hardest thing you can do. Get yourself a yoga mat or towel, and figure out exactly what you’re going to do. Typically a few pushups and sit-ups don’t do the trick. Try this out…
Or, if you’re so inclined you can run outside if you’d like to brave the cold weather. Make sure you’re prepared so you don’t get frostbite.
Quick Tip: Don’t just immediately sign up for a gym online. Every gym typical gives a tour, so take the trip to explore a few. This is a great chance to ask about high volume times, general benefits and what you can expect after joining.
Now that we’ve made a decision on how and where we’re getting in shape, let’s look at the best gear for you to wear while getting nice and sweaty.
Shoes
My philosophy is that shoes are the only items you can’t skimp on. Plus, it’s extremely tough to find sales for active shoes that are both high in quality and don’t make you look like a fool.
Training/Lifting/Crossfit
First off, these are dope as hell. Nike brought the heat with the Metcon 4 along with high-quality materials and it’s versatility make it the perfect do-it-all workout shoe.
The only downside is they’re not made for any running beside the occasional set of sprints. Try and put a few miles on these bad boys and you’re feet will most likely hate you the next day.
Running
Athletic Propulsion Labs is probably the most underrated running shoe brand out there. I’ve had the Techloom’s for nearly a year now and they’re still in fantastic shape. These are perfect for short to mid-range runs. You’re not running a marathon on these, but they’ll get the job done for the one-to-eight-mile range.
They come in a ton of sweet colorways, but the only problem is the sell out in various sizes pretty quickly.
Quick Tip: Buy your shoes a half size larger than you typically do. You want a little room for your toes. Shoes that fit just perfectly give your toes a harsh beating with any running or jumping exercises.
Shorts
Never go to short. That’s rule number one. Rule number two? Don’t wear the ratty mesh shorts you’ve had for way too long and smell like they’re one wear away from disintegrating. Find a pair that fits comfortably in the waist, hit just above the knee and give you plenty of mobility.
Budget
Are you surprised that Nike is a budget recommendation? Me too, but these are too good to pass up. These Nike Training Shorts are great for any type of workout. Plus they meet all the rules I listed above.
TREAT YO SELF
Tracksmith is a new company that been making waves with the likes of GQ and men’s style experts on Instagram. Lightweight, high quality and simplistic. Come on, Treat yo self to a pair of $58 shorts!
Shirts
Your shirt should be a trim fit, not to tight, loose or short. Not much other guidance than that.
Budget
Under Armour is the OG when it comes to sweat-wicking clothes. They started the trend in the early 2000’s and haven’t stopped since. They’re the best option for the best price.
TREAT YO SELF
The Nike Dri-Fit Knit is the upper echelon of Nike’s training gear. They may not have started the dri-fit trend, but they’ve perfected it. It’s worth the investment every time.
Fitness Watch/Band
Treat Yo Self
Unless you get the simplest version of a Fitbit or Jawbone, you’re never truly going to find a deal on something like this. It’s a premium product and you’ve got to be willing to spend the money on them. I had a simple Fitbit that only tracked steps. Sure, it worked, it was kind of sleek, but at the end of the day, it just didn’t do enough. Whereas the two watches below are both pretty badass.
The Fitbit Ionic Watch is a direct competitor product to the Apple watch. It’s got a ton of features, about as many as the Apple Watch. It’s the best upside is the price (Roughly $100 less than the Apple Watch) and its ability to store tons of music on the device, perfect for leaving your phone in a gym locker. A major downside is a lack of calling and messaging functionality. it’s just not at the same level as the Apple Watch. Perfect for the Android user, I guess?
The Apple Watch is the tried and true classic. I’ve rarely heard anyone complain about it. The sleek look, size options, band options, fully integrated with all Apple products, it’s got everything you’d need.
If you need more online resources look into Men’s Health or Valet Mag’s Fitness section. Tons of articles with truthful and legitimate advice that I’ve found extremely useful.
Remember, having the gear or the clothes is a start, but it’s not enough. You need to commit to a plan and stick to it. I wish you the best of luck on this one.
