The Journey to Healthier Eating

For much of my life, I was drawn to indulgent foods, often craving them while dismissing everything else. Fast food was my go-to, with McDonald's topping the list, closely followed by Wendy's, thanks to their irresistible fries dipped in Frosty. In a hurry, I'd settle for Subway. Unfortunately, my dietary choices didn't improve much beyond dinner.

When I think back, my favorite food groups included a mix of miniature Snickers, Bagel Bites, Mountain Dew, and mint chocolate chip ice cream—this was my menu until I turned twenty. I'd love to claim that I embraced bodybuilding and immediately reformed my eating habits, but the reality was different. It was a struggle, and I still face challenges today.

Avoiding excess calories and the allure of flavor and texture in ultra-processed foods has been a significant hurdle, especially after spending two decades believing that happiness came from a greasy bag and that pizza was an acceptable breakfast and dinner option. However, I realized that this lifestyle wasn't sustainable for achieving the physique and performance I desired.

After numerous experiments, I finally began to see progress. I hired a coach, became stubborn about my goals, educated myself, and tried various approaches. Now, I stick to a handful of foods daily, and I've done so for several years. I discovered a simple yet powerful principle: bland is better.

Over time, as I distanced myself from intense flavors, I found that vegetables began to taste enjoyable, fruits became a delightful treat, and I could leave the table feeling satisfied without overindulging. While I believe my meals taste great, they don't need to be bursting with flavor. I aim for a palatable taste and then stop there.

Spices and Seasonings I Use:

• Dill
• Ginger
• Salt
• Mustard

My simplified menu consists of:

• Chicken breast
• Ground beef
• Eggs
• Cauliflower
• Broccoli
• Sauerkraut
• Blueberries
• Apples

I recognize that many people are stronger than I am when it comes to culinary delights. They can whip up a gourmet meal and still put down the fork. That's not me—I'm the type who can't resist, the one who eats a donut and finds sprinkles on the steering wheel shortly thereafter.

That said, I occasionally miss the allure of McDonald's, but I finally feel in control of my choices. Ultimately, this journey is about control. I want to steer my own path, uninfluenced by celebrities, social media, or my cravings.

The Importance of Band-Assisted Cossack Squats

It’s hard to overemphasize the benefits of a well-executed cossack squat. This exercise checks numerous boxes for strength and flexibility, but it can be quite challenging for many. Fortunately, incorporating a resistance band can make it easier and more effective.

Watch the following video to see how to perform a band-assisted cossack squat: