Good Sh*t

Mind Over Body Fitness

Want to get fit? Start with your head. In this original series, we look at how mindfulness can improve physical performance.

Each year, one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to get fit. And our first thoughts are usually about what gear we need to purchase to make that dream happen — whether that means watches, responsive clothing or fancy home equipment (we’re looking at you, Peloton).

But here’s the thing: All you really need is yourself (and, of course, a good pair of shoes) and a tuned-in mindset. Practicing mindfulness is a way to get ahead of the game and in some instances dramatically improve your performance.

So what does mindful fitness mean? Everything from really thinking about what you’re eating to pushing your limits with meditation to practicing “green exercise” and eco-therapy in the great outdoors.

Good Sh*t

Could the Secret to Arms Like Arnold Be Plants?

Want to be better, faster, tougher, stronger? This celeb-studded doc says it comes down to being mindful of what you put in your mouth.

If you want to perform athletically at a high level, you’ve got to treat your body like a Ferrari, explains Winnipeg Blue Bombers running back Brady Oliveira, and that means pumping in premium fuel. According to a recent sports documentary, that fuel isn’t a steak at every meal; it’s plants.

Eating plants instead of animals is the best way to optimize athletic performance, claims the controversial and celeb-studded documentary The Game Changers, which has found a quiet but fervent following since its release a few months ago. The premise: A plant-based diet — and being mindful of not just how we’re eating, but what we’re eating — leads to a stronger athlete. Muscles work better, recovery is quicker and overall health improves.