Fit People all Have These 5 Things in Common

And they're easier to implement than you think.

2 min

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By Natascha Klemm
February 14, 2023

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Do you have a role model in sports? Take a second to think about that. They could be a soccer player, basketball player, fitness influencer on social media, or your gym buddy. If you want to get fit and sporty yourself, rather than just admiring your role models, then you need to adopt these five habits. That’s because no matter how different your role models are when it comes to their workouts, sports, and goals, they all have these things in common:

#1 They Have Active Lifestyles

It’s almost too obvious, but the main thing fit people all have in common is that regular exercise is part of their everyday lives. And we’re not just talking about the workouts they tick off their to-do lists. We’re talking about when meeting up with friends is combined with a bike ride or when lunch breaks are enjoyed as part of a hearty walk. Once that routine has been established, it (usually) becomes a habit that happens all by itself. If you find it hard to get into this rhythm at first, set yourself some clear goals until it starts to become second nature. The easiest way to do this is to take time at the weekend to organize the week ahead, and to schedule your exercise sessions, just like you do with dentist and hair appointments. For more movement in everyday life, remember the classics: Take the stairs instead of the elevator or cycle instead of taking the train. If this is already old news, that doesn’t matter; it’s effective all the same.

#2 They Have Goals

No matter how fit your role models are, remember they’re only human. Without exception, people do not have the same levels of motivation each day. There are always days when it’s hard to grab your gym clothes and leave the house instead of just staying on the couch. Everyone knows that and that’s okay. This is where firm goals are helpful. For professionals this could be a new personal best; for beginners their first clean push-up or first pull-up. If you know what you are working towards, it’s much easier to motivate yourself. Plus, you’re not alone in this. We help you achieve your goals, no matter what they are.

#3 They Follow the 80/20 Rule

This is worth repeating here: Athletes are only human and they also have cravings for chocolate, pizza, or wine from time to time. The good news is that cutting things out entirely has never achieved anything in the long run, so it has no place here either. It would only end up being counterproductive. Athletes know this too, which is why most of them live by the 80/20 rule. This means that 80% of their lifestyle focuses on sports and eating a healthy diet, while 20% is dedicated to sheer pleasure. This helps make a healthy lifestyle sustainable.

#4 They Prioritize Recovery

Exercising every day is neither effective nor sustainable. That’s why athletes regularly take days off from training to give their muscles time for recovery and growth. You can also actively aid recovery with tools such as massage guns, fascia rollers, mobility training, or yoga. But if you simply need to put your feet up, feel free to indulge yourself with a clear conscience too.

Healthy sleep hygiene is vital too, but we know that’s easier said than done — especially when everyday life is stressful and you can’t turn your brain off.

#5 They eat Enough and Always Have Healthy Snacks Close at Hand

Another (very enjoyable) thing that both athletes and people in general have in common is that we all love food! Getting enough macro- and micronutrients is also important to ensure performance in sports and everyday life. People who are particularly active also need more calories. When it comes to snacks, we are naturally a bit biased and swear by always having a protein bar handy. But homemade snacks are just as good.

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