(If I Were Starting My Fitness Journey Today… or Needed a Fresh Start)
We talk a lot at Nerve about having fun and getting fit—but let’s be real: success doesn’t happen on accident. It’s built, one intentional step at a time. So if I had to boil it down and start fresh, here are the Top 10 Things I’d Do to be successful in my health & fitness journey:
Sleep is the most underrated recovery tool out there. No supplement, stretch, or smoothie can replace a solid 7–8 hours of good sleep. Set a bedtime and protect it like it’s a workout on the schedule.
I’d treat my workouts like non-negotiable appointments. Sunday night? I’m locking in my class times for the week so I don’t leave it up to chance—or mood.
It’s hard to eat well when you’re winging it. I’d take 30–45 minutes on Sunday and again on Thursday to prep some go-to meals and snacks. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just ready and reachable.
Not every workout is going to feel amazing. But I’d show up anyway. Because consistency beats motivation every time.
This one’s big. I’d drop the pride and raise my hand when I have a question—whether it’s about a movement, nutrition, or how to stay on track. The people who get the best results? They ask.
I wouldn’t just “go hard.” I’d learn to train smart. Some days are red-line, others are recovery. I’d use the RPE (Rate of Perceived Effort) scale to guide my effort and make sure I’m progressing, not burning out.
Five minutes a day adds up. I’d take care of my body before it starts yelling at me. Especially if I want to keep doing this for the long haul.
The scale doesn’t tell the full story. I’d use the InBody Scan to track progress in muscle, fat, and hydration—because what gets measured gets improved.
I didn’t get fit to just PR my front squat. I’d sign up for the hike, chase my kids at the park, play in that pick-up game, or join a fun local competition. My fitness should mean something outside the gym walls.
If I want to be healthy, fit, and consistent… I’d spend more time around people who already are. Whether it’s chatting after class, jumping into a team challenge, or setting up a workout date—I’d build community on purpose.
You don’t need to be perfect to be successful. You just need a plan, a community, and a little grit. At Nerve, we’re here to walk alongside you, whether you’re on Day 1 or Year 10.
Start with 1 or 2 of these things. Then stack the rest.
Let’s go win the week.
– Cody