Dispatch #33
How to lie your way through a workout, the ultimate “I’m Too Busy to Exercise” exercise plan, embracing body neutrality, the rise of the fake six-pack, and more…so much more.
This dispatch has been sitting in my Drafts bin for two weeks. For some reason I haven’t been able to focus lately; my thoughts are scattered all over the place making it difficult to accomplish anything productive. I made a promise this morning that I would get this thing finished TODAY…and here it is.
I’m not going to spoil this moment by boring you all with any preamble. Today we’re getting right down to business.
Enjoy.
Brain & Body
Every now and then you come across an article that speaks directly to your soul. This here piece shares my central strategy for staying consistent with my workouts: lying to myself constantly. See, our brains are easily duped. You may want to throw in the towel after a hard set of squats, but often all it takes to rekindle that fire is a aspirational mantra or two. Remember, as George Constanta taught us all, it’s not a lie if you believe it.
The Busy Person’s Training Plan
One of the most common questions I get is “how many days a week should I exercise?”. My answer to this is always the same: “As often as you possibly can, but aim for at least two days per week, for at least 20 minutes each session”. Not the tallest order, but still, some folks are genuinely too busy for even that. If this sounds like you, worry not, for powerlifting guru Jim Wendler has created a near-perfect Busy Person’s Training Plan.
57 Ways to Get More Physical Activity Every Day
Another strategy for maintaining a lifelong fitness plan is to sneak-in movement snacks throughout the day. For some reason people tend to think that it’s only the stuff that happens inside the gym that counts towards our training goals. This, of course, is nonsense. All manners of movement and physical activity can be beneficial when performed with the right intent and intensity.
Heart & Soul
This is one of the most powerful pieces I’ve read in a long time. Embracing a “body-neutral” mindset demands honesty and vulnerability—qualities that aren’t exactly second-nature to human beings. I strongly encourage everyone to make time for this one.
Welcome to The Era of The Fake Six-Pack
…and standing in exact opposition to the body neutrality movement, we have this example of human lunacy. May God have mercy on our souls.
3 Rules to Express Yourself More Clearly
Did you know that Hawkeye from MASH is an acclaimed communications expert? It’s true! Here Mr. Alan Alda shares three tips for expressing yourself more clearly, especially when discussing complicated points.
Social Spotlight
This guy has quickly become my number one social media hero. Every day Dr. Idz (full name: Idrees Mughal…and yes, he is a real doctor) takes down quacks who spread health misinformation. His videos are sharp and cutting without being excessive or cruel. In a world flooded with bullshit, Dr. Idz provides a much needed breath of fresh air.
That’s all for this week. Thank you, as always, for lending me some of your attention. If you found value in any of these articles, please considering sharing this newsletter with your family, friends, and social networks.
Until next time!
- P