I am over 60 and regularly exercising since I was about 25. I am a horrible athlete (no talent) but love the way I feel when I spin, walk, do pilates, yoga, etc. Definitely a big part of my life. Just moving makes me feel great!
absolutely. definitely. 100%. but also, great example of great genetics. most people will not build a physique like this without progressive overload strength training and proper diet. And even then, some won’t achieve it if they aren’t predisposed for it genetically.
@@AccidentalHorcrux Most people WILL build a physique like that with basic calisthenics which is done in a muscle building manner (training to close to failure, proper recovery and nutrition). The average person who is not disabled or has a serious health condition can build a muscular if they live a lifestyle which stimulates it. The some that aren't predisposed to it genetically, is a very very small amount of the population.
@@hungrygator4716 Just want to concur. As someone who has studied this stuff anthropologically, you look at any community where people don't have the technology to replace human labour, basically everyone below 50 is in fantastic shape. There's nothing special about muscular people, if you do enough consistent exercise and don't eat artificial garbage, as long as you don't have some rare disability, you will get fit.
OMG THIS IS INCREDIBLE FITNESS CONTENT!! seriously I’ve never seen this high quality content, and intentional script writing in a fitness channel. i love everything you said in this video!! fitness is a such a spiritual journey, and foundational to our existence. keep up the goodwork. love this.
Couldn't agree more with your philosophy of fitness. I think many oversimplify the practice and wonder why they can't stay with it, but it is at its core a spiritual practice, and finding your 'why' for doing it that doesn't feel like an obligation or regret you constantly hold over yourself allows it to be a liberating practice.
The number one goal *has* to be consistency. If fun is what gets you consistency, get as much fun as you need, no matter what else you have to compromise to get that. Same for anything else that helps you stay consistent. If you can do 5 minutes every day week after week, that's still better than 1 hour gym sessions if they make you stop doing it at all. And one final very important message while you're working on your consistency: Don't count streaks. Count total time spent. If you've done 4 exercise sessions per week for three weeks, and then you've stopped for two weeks, don't look at it as having to go back to square one. Look at it as going back to your 4th week, the 13th day, and then do that as soon as possible. If you realise that each next exercise builds on top of the total amount of all the sessions you put in in the past, it'll be far less demotivating when you get distracted, because it won't ever feel like that sort of pointless routine that will only ever end in failure; in fact failure won't be a big deal at all; it'll just be a break between successes that you can come back to the next success from whenever you choose.
Funny you mention consistency! I noticed that I started working out more when I incorporated different modems of working out into my routine such as running as an example with lifting. If I would just lift weights all the time, I would start to get bored and not do as much.
I’ve been following the same philosophy for the last 3 years and I am feeling great. Even during Covid lockdowns, I managed to move my body as much as possible.
I’m getting back on the horse this year after 2 years of going through some difficult but necessary life transitions. I used to be active everyday, it was just a life norm I’ve been accustomed too since child hood. After 2 years of what I like to metaphorically call rotting, I haven’t been able to figure out where to start. I realize now that’s because I’ve been over complicating everything. The reality is: I’m blessed. I have two working legs, running shoes, and access to pull up bars. Thanks for the video Nate, I genuinely mean it. I’ll be applying some of your philosophies in my life. Cheers.
I 100% agree with this philosophy! I think similar to learning a language, or really anything in life, consistency is always the most important. There is way too much "advice" out there about what the right and wrong way is to do anything, when really, just doing anything is better than doing nothing.
Fam ur perspective on working out and staying active resonates so deeply. Its not like the usual oh push urself for ur goal. Its more lkke no i push myself for myself, cos i enjoy it, cos i enjoy movement and how it feels to move and go beyond our limits. Its really brought me back to that drive i would have when working out, its just gone recently but its refreshing to hear a resonant take on this all, and now its driven me in this direction again too. Thanks Nathaniel!
Hey Nathaniel. I am one of the 1.7 ish M people who enjoy your videos. We just met on the streets of Bucharest. It’s amazing that I got to met you in person. Enjoy your time in România.
Initially I had trouble maintaining my workout routines when traveling, finding it hard to motivate myself when I had not yoga mat or weights to work with- but this video really made me realize that I could make the most of any environment. Really internalizing the concept of being flexible with my routines is a major goal of mine this year. Great video as always man.
nath, this is my fav video of yours by far. i've completed 3 marathons in the last couple years but stopped running on a regular basis some time ago. it's night now where i live but tomorrow after my morning prayers i will hopefully start running again. thank you - you've been a great inspiration friend!
I agree so much with this. I work out every day for 30 mins in the morning and I feel so much better, so less stressed and clear minded. It’s more so the mental and feel good benefits it’s given me that I want to this every day because I look forward to testing myself
Thanks for another great video Nathaniel! It reminds of the Seneca quote, “The body should be treated more rigorously, that it may not be disobedient to the mind.”
Just love the idea of not counting reps! So true!! Reps is what I've learned at any workout place (gym, crossfit, swim, laps etc) and I just took it for granted. But really why, if you're not going for the Olympics??? Reps take all the fun out of it.
if I had to guess, for a lot of people it is just an easier way of keeping track of how much you're doing, not waste time, and most importantly pushing themselves a little bit further every time, by doing one or two more reps. personally, I am like Nathaniel in that reps are detrimental for me, but I see how they could be helpful to someone.
@@BrigisterI find reps useful and actually fun and motivating. Trying to beat my previous rep count for a certain weight turns the workout into a competition with myself, which I generally like.
It's great that you have discovered that while you're still young. Take advantage of having a functioning body because it doesn't stay that way forever for anyone. Enjoy every minute of it and live in that gratitude!
But this is exactly what helps staying fit while getting older: regular exercise and an healthy diet (not diet diet, but balanced eating). It helped me getting fit after my pregnancies, my broken leg, and who knows what else to come. No special attention for getting back fit or ‘in shape’, just back to my old habits.
Bro, fuck you, youre everything that I look into a fantastic content creator and filmmaker. Follow you for years, lost your channel and found it again when I needed the most. Much love man
A few weeks ago I started working out at the gym twice a week. And I'm not a pro by any means, but I wanted to become more healthier and stronger as a person (in many ways and areas). And last year I did the biggest achievement of my life: Hiking and completing a trail in the far north of Sweden (a 450 km trail through one of the last wildernesses of Europe). And I want to continue doing that, but I wanted to get in shape more along the way. And again, I'm not a pro and that's not my goal either, but I just want to become stronger and healthier just to be able to do those long distance hikes (with everything I have on my back). So I just try some simple cardio and strength trainings. And well, it's a good habit as well. I wish you all the best in this new year Nathaniel! I hope new things will unfold along the way! Best regards!
Dear Nathaniel, I love your videos so much! I have been on your channel for so long but I want to take the time to thank you because I am very curious, I think a lot and I believe that you transcend topics so well and it resonates with me a lot. Beautiful analysis on physical health that makes it wholesome and not biased with the fit content that we see everywhere. Thanks for the content!
I am 53 years old and have been living this life of consistent exercise since I was a child. I do have an autoimmune disease, so I have to keep it moderate with a mix of strength training with smaller weights, yoga, walking and hiking. The key is consistency. I try for at least 20 mins a day but often go more. I also eat a clean diet with lots of plants. I agree 100% with you, it’s not so much what you do but that you keep moving. I focus on the process and I get the progress. 😊
Right now I've pretty much hit rock bittom mentally and especially physically. It is my time to exit the comfort zone bubble that ive been living in for many years
This is exactly what I needed to start the year fresh, I’ve felt the effects of the endless information coming from the health industry and it has put me at a standstill, this video is my philosophy too and I’m going to get back out there ! Thank you!!
I love this video, because it's not an apology of fitness for aesthetic alone, but fitness as a philosophy, as a journey, as something that helps us be us. Well done! ❤ (that said I must add you are looking very good too!)
I hope you know how great of a communicator and a great and genuine human being you are. Love watching your videos, they are encouraging. Keep it up bro, cheers!
You gave the key to this: habits. For the vast majority of people, just a regular walk through the park, a nicer diet and some exercises for the arms and back should be enough just to be in a decent shape. Then, we can build over that.
Thank you so much. I felt kinda lost with all of the content online and all the contradictions. Your content is real and honest. I'm feeling a motivation I haven't felt in a while. Thank you!!
At its core, fitness is about consistency as well as longevity. I'm 28 and I can definitely tell you that over the years my fitness goals have changed dramatically from powerlifting all the way to becoming more of a hybrid athlete. Truth is that you get bored with one facet of fitness if you are not competitively competing in it or at least I did. Now, I'm incorporating HIT training, running, stretching, and also lifting. I am training for life, not to be the World's Strongest Man.
Eating with your heart - with no distraction - is such a beautiful way to self care. It matches perfectly with a work-out session. I found self love in this.
I loved when you said: "Cuando sometes tu cuerpo y mente a desafíos, otros desafíos que surgen se sienten más manejables", that is an amazing prhase, I agree with you and really made me feel better :)
In one of your videos you mentioned the not counting the reps and sets and I started doing the same and honestly I've been feeling much better so honestly, Thank you!
Bro - you always take me deeper than I was expecting to go. Strength is not a destination but it is the process to revisit the unknown and be comfortable there. The result is achieved serenity within and both natural and physical growth to help further expansion. ✌🏾🌲
Thanks for the motivation. This is a pure and heartfelt sharing of yours to share knowledge and passion not just annoying north american kid fitness channel information. I did go to gym for multiple in my early 20s and I'm 27 now and never have a willing to go back to gym but home and outdoor exercises.
i really like that we share the same sentiments. its on simplicity, enjoyability, and affordability. I refuse to go to gyms or spend thousands on fitness. Just focus on research and proper form.
I only ever cycle. I have a hard time motivating myself long term for other exercise. I'll definitely try again this year though. Set myself a 30 day challange and see how much I improve. Because I think that's all that will eventually get me there, progress.
Really happy I watched this. You might not know exactly the weight behind this compliment for me but you might be the only UA-camr in the past 4 years that I have consistently watched their videos at regular, 1x speed. No matter the topic, there’s always something that stands out to me so strongly about the intention (or at the very least care taken) behind each moment you craft throughout your films. I just have to sit with it and absorb it, enjoy it.
Sometimes it's better to keep it simple, not everyone is a bodybuilder. I was also always skinny, like an unhealthy level... When I was about 18-19 years old, I was 184cm and weighed 58kg. It had been a while since I had first tried to grow muscle but I didn't know anything about, I spammed bodyweight exercises and eventually I injured my back. I was doing hundreds of situps a day, thinking that was the way to get abs or something... I was a kid, I don't know anymore. Regardless that greatly discouraged me from pursuing that goal anymore, because to this day my back still hurts. at the age of 20, with going to college and all I began eating more junk food, suddenly I was at 65kg, sure maybe I was skinny fat, but I was happy... Those few kilos made a huge difference in how I looked... Regardless, eventually I began having regular panic attacks. They were severe, my doctors literally thought that it was epilepsy for a while. It hit me that it had been years since I quit football, that even though I look healthy when wearing a hoodie, like all skinny people do... I was nowhere near healthy... I began obsessing about it, eating more and more... Soon I was closing in on 70kg, and it finally hit me that I needed to workout... but properly... I learned everything about it, hours and hours of youtube videos. But after months of being in the gym, I was 74kg, looked better than ever, but felt awful... There was too much info, I was overwhelmed, never sure if my workout were optimized, if I was working out hard enough... I gave up... A year went by and though I managed to keep the weight, I watched as I became "skinny fat" again, never too bad, I always kept fairly active, but I'm a huge perfectionist and I needed more... but I also couldn't let the gym become another source of stress... I bought two paralel bars and a pull up bar, stopped counting calories, stopped worrying so much. I realized that anything worth doing, is worth doing half way... Those words changed my life in a lot other ways, but they helped immensely with my "gym progression". If I have 20 minutes, I work out for 20 minutes, if I have 40, then maybe 40... If I don't have time, it's fine too. And removing the hassle of driving to the gym, helped immensely. It's been years since I've been to a gym... I'm now 83kg, still pretty lean, because after all I'm not "bulking" and look better than ever, miles ahead of anything I'd managed before. That's almost 30kg difference, I can't believe it... Sometimes it's better to keep it simple, not everyone is a bodybuilder.
Please never stop making videos, haha. I love to watch your new uploads and try to find time to fit them into my daily life. The way you deliver your message, thoughts, etc. is so nice and simple,, yet so full of information and to the point. Anyway, this video just goes to show that exercise can be done almost anywhere at anytime and the only excuse we have (outside of possible health reasons and such) are not good ones. Even the little things can add up when it comes to exercise and I love how easily it was explained here. (I am preaching to the choir here, lol, because I really need to get myself back into better shape but *insert excuse*) I went to the doctor today for a condition I am dealing with and when I set foot on the scale I just seen how much weight I have gained, how my body has been telling me that I need to do better, and it sort of clicked that now is the right time because like you said, "We won't always have our bodies." I always look in the mirror and tell myself "I want to live now, I want to experience life now, I want to better myself now, be proud of myself now" and each year that I let slip by not changing, I begin to question those statements I tell myself and I am tired of doing that. So yeah, I said all of that to say thank you for this video and thank you for bringing the simplicity of this to the forefront.
I've always had difficulty being disciplined enough to work out for a long time, I tend to overwork myself, which becomes stressful. This year I want to focus exactly on those things, enjoying them and looking at them long-term. It's like this video was sent to me, great video.
Same. The longest i have been able to workout is 3 months. I like it for a month and half but after tha. I have to make myself do the same routine. I leave for 2 months and then come back. But i am never consistent.
amazing video man! You have no idea how much i related to this, i've always struggled a lot with working out and this really gave me another perspective around it, love your content
Hi!! Love that you give the importance to physical activitie in your channel!! I am a coach and I agree with the principle of sticking to time under tension instead of reps. Just as a complementary option to add a small thing to your workouts is that some days you could do the same excersices but in an explosive way of movement just to make sure to recruit the fast/explosive muscle fibers. The last thing that could do to make core excercies more fun is to explore new forms of the movement, for example not just making flex-extension but also incorporate some spine rotations and more complex movements emphasizing the posterior and anterior chains of your body. The ketlebells are really good for that kind of movement!! Keep doing what you do man!! Thanks for the video!!!
i think you would enjoy jivamukti yoga or any yoga because of how intentional you are with the work out and how you prioritize how you pay attention to form over repetition
Love your approach to this subject! Most videos either click bait you to buy something, or lose you in ridiculous rambling. Your video cuts the fat out and gives it to us straight from an honest man. Cheers!
I do the exact same thing and have the same philosophy, and I've never reached the same level of consistency before nor been in better shape and felt this good - and I am 38 and have done exercise all my life. I do home workouts for 30 minutes one day, run the next, or I might switch it up with a yoga session or jump rope. Whatever I feel like, but real exercise and for 30 minutes.
Just a heads up, better help has been found to sell user information to ad companies. They’re paying our 7.8 million out to customers after they were taken to court for this by the FTC
Split squats for Legs 🎉. Can do them at home or on stairs. They're harder than regular squats, often less in less knee pain (due to the shin being more vertical) and bias the glutes a bit more 😋
I really like your philosophy, when you said you work out because you're curious...that basically changed my view on working out completely so thank you for that
So Interesting the point you are making that working out physically makes you strong mentally and prepares you to face any challenges in life. In a way working out your muscles expands your awareness with your muscles also “expanding”. And often it’s just about doing it like you said, not about the number. This year some challenges made me realise that even if you don’t get the “YES” or the “number” right, it is often not about that, but facing that challenge in the first place, giving it a try, appreciating the journey of growing, mentally or physically. And at the end, it’s that what makes you proud of pushing beyond :)
I would love to see more exercise and fitness videos with your down to Earth personality and using it for mental clarity ! I wish more people spoke mostly about the mental benefits of getting out rather than just #gains
I can relate to " how well I can do them" and "gym is boring". Only years later since I started doing yoga I figured out that I wasn't even doing a tabletop pose properly. When I heard "push the floor away" I realized that I was leisurely standing on all fours waiting for the next exercise to test my strength. But it's oftentimes those simple fundamental things that if done with awareness and certain "correctness" could be enough to discover where your limit is and build strength. Whether it's yoga or weight lifting it is always about finding your way to do it well. As for gyms, don't want to hurt anybody, but it's still hard to grasp how one can find that cold steel, dark, sticky place to be motivating, ha-ha:) Thank you for another amazing video!
I’ve been getting into photography lately, and there is a clear distinction between the camera gear heads and the artists. Most of what you find on UA-cam panders to the gear head. True artists use photography as their vehicle and don’t give a fuck about the gear unless it enables them to create in a more creative way. Working out can be the same. All the UA-cam videos and information about working out is the exercise equivalent of a gear head. I need to stop worrying about the gear and just do. On the way, I will learn what works and what doesn’t.
Favorite takeaways: - The body being an ongoing project that's never really done. - Not counting reps or sets but simply doing them with good form to "failure" (form beginning to waiver). And yes, those outdoor calisthenics gyms are great. I've never been to a crowded one. I enjoy just doing a dead-hang while looking at the river and the trees. I think the one I go to has remained largely untouched since the '90s.
I'm really glad you enjoy running. I've been a runner for most of my life. It is great for stress relief and I believe it does have cognitive benefits, especially as you age. What I've discovered more recently is how important and what a difference proper nutrition can make. I lost 20 pounds in 2.5 months doing the same exercise I've been doing for quite a while but changing diet to low carb (and lower calories - 1800 to 2000 per day). I've been blown away by this. I haven't experienced anything this life changing since I trained and ran a marathon in 2002. I also want to say that I really like your way of de-emphasizing metrics when it comes to your workout. Once you are experienced enough, you don't need metrics to know when you're getting a great workout. I've been taking the same approach to the dieting part of the equation. I don't worry about weighing myself, I just go by how my body looks and feels and staying disciplined with the food I actually put in my mouth. Having a fasting mindset has also been helpful. I'd always advise to see a doctor and nutritionist for advice before doing this.
man I really appreciate you and the message you spread! I see you as an older brother/mentor and I really resonate with “Amor Fati” and what it means, even got it tattooed 💪🏽
i was hesitating whether or not to watch this video because its not a typical Nathaniel drew video topic, but after watching I realised I have a similar attitude and approach to working out as nate. i dislike the whole counting reps, and going to a gym. i prefer to be out in nature and focus on the quality of the motion I am doing that will strengthen my muscles. The whole gym culture sadly has got many people focused on the wrongs things and reasons. exercise needs to be enjoyable and really just kept simple. great vid again nate.
Dr. Peter Attia has really good data on what happens when you age. He has Vo2 Max charts, which is a rough estimate of your fitness, and it shows the decrease over the lifespan, which naturally happens. But he advocates for everyone to be in that top 25% of that chart in your early decades, because the reality is, if you're in your 20-30's and are only able to run a 10 minute mile (or equivalent vo2max for any sport), you will have significant issues mid to late life to the point you won't even be able to walk up stairs at a brisk pace. Fitness is absolutely critical to long term health.
I’m 9 months late, but this is exactly the video I needed and from the person I needed it from HAHAH. Everything has to be explained to me in aesthetics nowadays and that’s ok 😂❤ tysmmmmm
wow!! this was way better than any motivation video here on youtube made by huge guys that are clearly on steroids and think that "excuses are for losers". thank you nathaniel, this motivated me a lot! happy 2024 for you ❤
Absolutely fantastic video. Please, if you are able, move more and exercise. I am 60 years old and all my adult life was grossly overweight. 6 years ago I lost 110 lbs and fell in love with moving more, especially walking. Since then, I have started working in the gym a little, swimming, cycling and even a 5k park run, which I walked. A few months ago I started running on a treadmill, just in small stages and I have set a goal of doing a 5k park run where I run the whole race and do not stop and do not walk. In the gym and on the treadmill I have now managed to run 5k without stopping. I now need to move this outside which I know will be more difficult. But I can do it. As a 60 year old, my only regret was I waited so long to exercise and enjoy it.
One thing is getting in shape physically but mental and spiritual preparation is as important, if not even more. I've been doing Steps to Knowledge for 6 years now and it's the best self-development decision I've ever made. It's a free online self-study book of practices. It has 365 Steps, one for each day. Perfect to begin in the New Year!
C U L T. Steps to Knowledge is cult doctrine disguised as meditation. Do you believe that aliens control everything? Because the author does and that's what he's really trying to push. Perfect way to begin the New Year eh?
amazing video! My favorite part about sport is flexibility. I am 16 and for over 5 years I have been training at home by myself, but it was inconsistent. A week ago I decided to attend aerial acrobatics classes and after two sessions it literally changed my life. Now I feel as motivated as never and I will not only continue going in for acrobatics but also training every day at home. I found that my weaknesses are arms (not strong enough) and legs (wanna do splits), that's why I am focused on these muscles daily ;)
Doing something is soooo much better than doing nothing. Sometimes I even just play ONE song, and go hard with the kettlebell until the song is over. Just that, and the whole day feels better.
❤❤❤👏🏆 *THANK YOU for this inspiring video!!!!!* 🏆👏❤❤❤ I used to feel effortlessly pulled to go for long daily walks when the sun started to set (beautiful!) & loved the feeling in my body of doing calisthenics and lifting weights. 🏋♂💪😄But I lost my joy in movement when health issues & injuries made it literally hurt. Exercise became a should instead of get to, and that soured things for *years.* Having to go slow and listen so hard for stop signs because I get re-injured so easily has felt like a resented concession to what's been taken from me, like getting nothing but red lights every time you try to cross town, or being stuck in eternal traffic watching others zip by in the commuter lane. Painful *psychologically* as well as physically. *THANK YOU for reminding me that going slow & listening to what my body feels instead of some pre-determined idea of what I "should" be doing is what I used to do NATURALLY when I was fit!* 🤩 I've been trying so hard to find motivation for what feels like an endless, unrewarding slog, especially when physical therapists have unknowingly kept psyching me out by giving me specific reps and sets that led to re-injury over and over again *(eff reps & sets!!!).* 😈🧐😄 This video reminded me that if I truly turn my expectations to zero and listen to my *body's* wisdom about what I CAN do (even if it's *half* a push up done with good form or literally just ten steps walking some days) movement IS sometimes possible for me without pain, and progress WILL come if I just keep showing up! 😃 And showing up is SO much more fun when you're really present and listening for what feels GOOD instead of bad. Huzzah! 🤩 *A THOUSAND THANK YOUs, Nathaniel, for this important reminder!!!* 🌈🌱🌿💐🍀💖👏
I try to do simple home workouts and go on regular walks. Besides that my main source of exercise is martial arts. Not the heavy sparring kind like (kick)boxing or MMA, but pencak silat. I find that the technicality of it, moving your body in somewhat unusual ways helps me stay in shape.
I am over 60 and regularly exercising since I was about 25. I am a horrible athlete (no talent) but love the way I feel when I spin, walk, do pilates, yoga, etc. Definitely a big part of my life. Just moving makes me feel great!
Man, You are doing a lot more than 90% of people, you are awesome
That is wonderful! Key to a long life :)
Are you sure that you're an horrible athlete, mate? Hardwork often beats talent
Without movement, there is no life. Have your fitness goals changed over the years?
No one expects a 60yr old to be an athlete. Just to keep moving
A great example of how simple, bodyweight exercises can build a sick physique. Looking cut, my dude
Thank you!!
Woohoo
absolutely. definitely. 100%. but also, great example of great genetics. most people will not build a physique like this without progressive overload strength training and proper diet. And even then, some won’t achieve it if they aren’t predisposed for it genetically.
@@AccidentalHorcrux Most people WILL build a physique like that with basic calisthenics which is done in a muscle building manner (training to close to failure, proper recovery and nutrition). The average person who is not disabled or has a serious health condition can build a muscular if they live a lifestyle which stimulates it. The some that aren't predisposed to it genetically, is a very very small amount of the population.
@@hungrygator4716 Just want to concur. As someone who has studied this stuff anthropologically, you look at any community where people don't have the technology to replace human labour, basically everyone below 50 is in fantastic shape. There's nothing special about muscular people, if you do enough consistent exercise and don't eat artificial garbage, as long as you don't have some rare disability, you will get fit.
2:51 "STRENGTH IS FOUND IN THE MIND."
A quote to remember by. Thank you.
OMG THIS IS INCREDIBLE FITNESS CONTENT!! seriously I’ve never seen this high quality content, and intentional script writing in a fitness channel. i love everything you said in this video!! fitness is a such a spiritual journey, and foundational to our existence. keep up the goodwork. love this.
Couldn't agree more with your philosophy of fitness. I think many oversimplify the practice and wonder why they can't stay with it, but it is at its core a spiritual practice, and finding your 'why' for doing it that doesn't feel like an obligation or regret you constantly hold over yourself allows it to be a liberating practice.
The number one goal *has* to be consistency. If fun is what gets you consistency, get as much fun as you need, no matter what else you have to compromise to get that. Same for anything else that helps you stay consistent. If you can do 5 minutes every day week after week, that's still better than 1 hour gym sessions if they make you stop doing it at all.
And one final very important message while you're working on your consistency: Don't count streaks. Count total time spent. If you've done 4 exercise sessions per week for three weeks, and then you've stopped for two weeks, don't look at it as having to go back to square one.
Look at it as going back to your 4th week, the 13th day, and then do that as soon as possible. If you realise that each next exercise builds on top of the total amount of all the sessions you put in in the past, it'll be far less demotivating when you get distracted, because it won't ever feel like that sort of pointless routine that will only ever end in failure; in fact failure won't be a big deal at all; it'll just be a break between successes that you can come back to the next success from whenever you choose.
Funny you mention consistency! I noticed that I started working out more when I incorporated different modems of working out into my routine such as running as an example with lifting. If I would just lift weights all the time, I would start to get bored and not do as much.
I’ve been following the same philosophy for the last 3 years and I am feeling great. Even during Covid lockdowns, I managed to move my body as much as possible.
Just think working out is good for my health it's my motivation.
THANK YOU FOR THIS!
This year I'm going to keep my goal simple. Just get back in shape and my year would be successful.
I’m getting back on the horse this year after 2 years of going through some difficult but necessary life transitions.
I used to be active everyday, it was just a life norm I’ve been accustomed too since child hood.
After 2 years of what I like to metaphorically call rotting, I haven’t been able to figure out where to start.
I realize now that’s because I’ve been over complicating everything.
The reality is: I’m blessed. I have two working legs, running shoes, and access to pull up bars.
Thanks for the video Nate, I genuinely mean it. I’ll be applying some of your philosophies in my life.
Cheers.
I 100% agree with this philosophy! I think similar to learning a language, or really anything in life, consistency is always the most important. There is way too much "advice" out there about what the right and wrong way is to do anything, when really, just doing anything is better than doing nothing.
Fam ur perspective on working out and staying active resonates so deeply. Its not like the usual oh push urself for ur goal. Its more lkke no i push myself for myself, cos i enjoy it, cos i enjoy movement and how it feels to move and go beyond our limits. Its really brought me back to that drive i would have when working out, its just gone recently but its refreshing to hear a resonant take on this all, and now its driven me in this direction again too. Thanks Nathaniel!
Hey Nathaniel. I am one of the 1.7 ish M people who enjoy your videos. We just met on the streets of Bucharest. It’s amazing that I got to met you in person. Enjoy your time in România.
Initially I had trouble maintaining my workout routines when traveling, finding it hard to motivate myself when I had not yoga mat or weights to work with- but this video really made me realize that I could make the most of any environment.
Really internalizing the concept of being flexible with my routines is a major goal of mine this year.
Great video as always man.
When in doubt, go back to the basics! Running and bodyweight exercises will always serve a purpose if there are no gyms nearby.
nath, this is my fav video of yours by far. i've completed 3 marathons in the last couple years but stopped running on a regular basis some time ago. it's night now where i live but tomorrow after my morning prayers i will hopefully start running again. thank you - you've been a great inspiration friend!
I agree so much with this. I work out every day for 30 mins in the morning and I feel so much better, so less stressed and clear minded. It’s more so the mental and feel good benefits it’s given me that I want to this every day because I look forward to testing myself
Thanks for another great video Nathaniel! It reminds of the Seneca quote, “The body should be treated more rigorously, that it may not be disobedient to the mind.”
Just love the idea of not counting reps! So true!! Reps is what I've learned at any workout place (gym, crossfit, swim, laps etc) and I just took it for granted. But really why, if you're not going for the Olympics??? Reps take all the fun out of it.
if I had to guess, for a lot of people it is just an easier way of keeping track of how much you're doing, not waste time, and most importantly pushing themselves a little bit further every time, by doing one or two more reps. personally, I am like Nathaniel in that reps are detrimental for me, but I see how they could be helpful to someone.
@@BrigisterI find reps useful and actually fun and motivating. Trying to beat my previous rep count for a certain weight turns the workout into a competition with myself, which I generally like.
It's great that you have discovered that while you're still young. Take advantage of having a functioning body because it doesn't stay that way forever for anyone.
Enjoy every minute of it and live in that gratitude!
But this is exactly what helps staying fit while getting older: regular exercise and an healthy diet (not diet diet, but balanced eating). It helped me getting fit after my pregnancies, my broken leg, and who knows what else to come. No special attention for getting back fit or ‘in shape’, just back to my old habits.
Bro, fuck you, youre everything that I look into a fantastic content creator and filmmaker. Follow you for years, lost your channel and found it again when I needed the most. Much love man
A few weeks ago I started working out at the gym twice a week. And I'm not a pro by any means, but I wanted to become more healthier and stronger as a person (in many ways and areas). And last year I did the biggest achievement of my life: Hiking and completing a trail in the far north of Sweden (a 450 km trail through one of the last wildernesses of Europe). And I want to continue doing that, but I wanted to get in shape more along the way. And again, I'm not a pro and that's not my goal either, but I just want to become stronger and healthier just to be able to do those long distance hikes (with everything I have on my back). So I just try some simple cardio and strength trainings. And well, it's a good habit as well. I wish you all the best in this new year Nathaniel! I hope new things will unfold along the way! Best regards!
Dear Nathaniel,
I love your videos so much! I have been on your channel for so long but I want to take the time to thank you because I am very curious, I think a lot and I believe that you transcend topics so well and it resonates with me a lot. Beautiful analysis on physical health that makes it wholesome and not biased with the fit content that we see everywhere.
Thanks for the content!
I am 53 years old and have been living this life of consistent exercise since I was a child. I do have an autoimmune disease, so I have to keep it moderate with a mix of strength training with smaller weights, yoga, walking and hiking. The key is consistency. I try for at least 20 mins a day but often go more. I also eat a clean diet with lots of plants. I agree 100% with you, it’s not so much what you do but that you keep moving. I focus on the process and I get the progress. 😊
Right now I've pretty much hit rock bittom mentally and especially physically. It is my time to exit the comfort zone bubble that ive been living in for many years
This is exactly what I needed to start the year fresh, I’ve felt the effects of the endless information coming from the health industry and it has put me at a standstill, this video is my philosophy too and I’m going to get back out there ! Thank you!!
I love this video, because it's not an apology of fitness for aesthetic alone, but fitness as a philosophy, as a journey, as something that helps us be us. Well done! ❤
(that said I must add you are looking very good too!)
I hope you know how great of a communicator and a great and genuine human being you are. Love watching your videos, they are encouraging. Keep it up bro, cheers!
You gave the key to this: habits. For the vast majority of people, just a regular walk through the park, a nicer diet and some exercises for the arms and back should be enough just to be in a decent shape. Then, we can build over that.
Thank you so much. I felt kinda lost with all of the content online and all the contradictions. Your content is real and honest. I'm feeling a motivation I haven't felt in a while. Thank you!!
Beautifully made video!
At its core, fitness is about consistency as well as longevity. I'm 28 and I can definitely tell you that over the years my fitness goals have changed dramatically from powerlifting all the way to becoming more of a hybrid athlete. Truth is that you get bored with one facet of fitness if you are not competitively competing in it or at least I did. Now, I'm incorporating HIT training, running, stretching, and also lifting. I am training for life, not to be the World's Strongest Man.
Eating with your heart - with no distraction - is such a beautiful way to self care. It matches perfectly with a work-out session. I found self love in this.
I loved when you said: "Cuando sometes tu cuerpo y mente a desafíos, otros desafíos que surgen se sienten más manejables", that is an amazing prhase, I agree with you and really made me feel better :)
In one of your videos you mentioned the not counting the reps and sets and I started doing the same and honestly I've been feeling much better so honestly, Thank you!
Nathaniel buffed -
great content as usual!
Bro - you always take me deeper than I was expecting to go. Strength is not a destination but it is the process to revisit the unknown and be comfortable there. The result is achieved serenity within and both natural and physical growth to help further expansion. ✌🏾🌲
Thanks for the motivation. This is a pure and heartfelt sharing of yours to share knowledge and passion not just annoying north american kid fitness channel information. I did go to gym for multiple in my early 20s and I'm 27 now and never have a willing to go back to gym but home and outdoor exercises.
This hit so close to home! Thank you for sharing this, Nathaniel!
i really like that we share the same sentiments. its on simplicity, enjoyability, and affordability. I refuse to go to gyms or spend thousands on fitness. Just focus on research and proper form.
I only ever cycle. I have a hard time motivating myself long term for other exercise. I'll definitely try again this year though. Set myself a 30 day challange and see how much I improve. Because I think that's all that will eventually get me there, progress.
Don’t know about your fitness goals or coaching but your video making most specifically storytelling way or method is awesome and very engaging
Really happy I watched this. You might not know exactly the weight behind this compliment for me but you might be the only UA-camr in the past 4 years that I have consistently watched their videos at regular, 1x speed. No matter the topic, there’s always something that stands out to me so strongly about the intention (or at the very least care taken) behind each moment you craft throughout your films. I just have to sit with it and absorb it, enjoy it.
One of my goals this year is becoming an active person. Your video gave me so much inspiration! Thank you
I’m gonna watch this video so many times throughout this year
Sometimes it's better to keep it simple, not everyone is a bodybuilder.
I was also always skinny, like an unhealthy level... When I was about 18-19 years old, I was 184cm and weighed 58kg. It had been a while since I had first tried to grow muscle but I didn't know anything about, I spammed bodyweight exercises and eventually I injured my back. I was doing hundreds of situps a day, thinking that was the way to get abs or something... I was a kid, I don't know anymore. Regardless that greatly discouraged me from pursuing that goal anymore, because to this day my back still hurts. at the age of 20, with going to college and all I began eating more junk food, suddenly I was at 65kg, sure maybe I was skinny fat, but I was happy... Those few kilos made a huge difference in how I looked... Regardless, eventually I began having regular panic attacks. They were severe, my doctors literally thought that it was epilepsy for a while.
It hit me that it had been years since I quit football, that even though I look healthy when wearing a hoodie, like all skinny people do... I was nowhere near healthy... I began obsessing about it, eating more and more... Soon I was closing in on 70kg, and it finally hit me that I needed to workout... but properly... I learned everything about it, hours and hours of youtube videos. But after months of being in the gym, I was 74kg, looked better than ever, but felt awful... There was too much info, I was overwhelmed, never sure if my workout were optimized, if I was working out hard enough... I gave up...
A year went by and though I managed to keep the weight, I watched as I became "skinny fat" again, never too bad, I always kept fairly active, but I'm a huge perfectionist and I needed more... but I also couldn't let the gym become another source of stress...
I bought two paralel bars and a pull up bar, stopped counting calories, stopped worrying so much. I realized that anything worth doing, is worth doing half way... Those words changed my life in a lot other ways, but they helped immensely with my "gym progression". If I have 20 minutes, I work out for 20 minutes, if I have 40, then maybe 40... If I don't have time, it's fine too. And removing the hassle of driving to the gym, helped immensely.
It's been years since I've been to a gym...
I'm now 83kg, still pretty lean, because after all I'm not "bulking" and look better than ever, miles ahead of anything I'd managed before.
That's almost 30kg difference, I can't believe it...
Sometimes it's better to keep it simple, not everyone is a bodybuilder.
Please never stop making videos, haha. I love to watch your new uploads and try to find time to fit them into my daily life. The way you deliver your message, thoughts, etc. is so nice and simple,, yet so full of information and to the point.
Anyway, this video just goes to show that exercise can be done almost anywhere at anytime and the only excuse we have (outside of possible health reasons and such) are not good ones. Even the little things can add up when it comes to exercise and I love how easily it was explained here. (I am preaching to the choir here, lol, because I really need to get myself back into better shape but *insert excuse*) I went to the doctor today for a condition I am dealing with and when I set foot on the scale I just seen how much weight I have gained, how my body has been telling me that I need to do better, and it sort of clicked that now is the right time because like you said, "We won't always have our bodies." I always look in the mirror and tell myself "I want to live now, I want to experience life now, I want to better myself now, be proud of myself now" and each year that I let slip by not changing, I begin to question those statements I tell myself and I am tired of doing that.
So yeah, I said all of that to say thank you for this video and thank you for bringing the simplicity of this to the forefront.
I've always had difficulty being disciplined enough to work out for a long time, I tend to overwork myself, which becomes stressful. This year I want to focus exactly on those things, enjoying them and looking at them long-term. It's like this video was sent to me, great video.
Same. The longest i have been able to workout is 3 months. I like it for a month and half but after tha. I have to make myself do the same routine. I leave for 2 months and then come back. But i am never consistent.
Your Sound Design is next level. Amazing! Perfectly suited
amazing video man! You have no idea how much i related to this, i've always struggled a lot with working out and this really gave me another perspective around it, love your content
Hi!! Love that you give the importance to physical activitie in your channel!! I am a coach and I agree with the principle of sticking to time under tension instead of reps. Just as a complementary option to add a small thing to your workouts is that some days you could do the same excersices but in an explosive way of movement just to make sure to recruit the fast/explosive muscle fibers. The last thing that could do to make core excercies more fun is to explore new forms of the movement, for example not just making flex-extension but also incorporate some spine rotations and more complex movements emphasizing the posterior and anterior chains of your body. The ketlebells are really good for that kind of movement!! Keep doing what you do man!! Thanks for the video!!!
DAMN!!! These videos are getting so good! Especially at (3:45). I feel so inspired by you, your writing and your filmmaking!
i think you would enjoy jivamukti yoga or any yoga because of how intentional you are with the work out and how you prioritize how you pay attention to form over repetition
Looking great man! Happy 2024!
Great motivation! 💙Tips/info start at 6:42
Love your approach to this subject! Most videos either click bait you to buy something, or lose you in ridiculous rambling. Your video cuts the fat out and gives it to us straight from an honest man. Cheers!
The sheer quality of this video and story telling is beyond amazing. Thank you for this wonderful video
yasssss let's go Nathan, you are amazing !
I do the exact same thing and have the same philosophy, and I've never reached the same level of consistency before nor been in better shape and felt this good - and I am 38 and have done exercise all my life. I do home workouts for 30 minutes one day, run the next, or I might switch it up with a yoga session or jump rope. Whatever I feel like, but real exercise and for 30 minutes.
This channel is getting better by the day! Love it
Your intentions and courage to explore the new style are well received. Thanks for making great works of art man!
Masterfully put together. Nice work on the journey and consistency. Even just the mental benefits make it all worth it.
Just a heads up, better help has been found to sell user information to ad companies. They’re paying our 7.8 million out to customers after they were taken to court for this by the FTC
If you decide you want to lift weights, starting strength is the answer. Minimal time and complexity, maximum results
That was incredibly on time. I went out to run 3 times in the last week and its been interesting. I want to keep going. Thank you
Split squats for Legs 🎉. Can do them at home or on stairs. They're harder than regular squats, often less in less knee pain (due to the shin being more vertical) and bias the glutes a bit more 😋
Beautiful 🥹
I really like your philosophy, when you said you work out because you're curious...that basically changed my view on working out completely so thank you for that
So Interesting the point you are making that working out physically makes you strong mentally and prepares you to face any challenges in life. In a way working out your muscles expands your awareness with your muscles also “expanding”. And often it’s just about doing it like you said, not about the number. This year some challenges made me realise that even if you don’t get the “YES” or the “number” right, it is often not about that, but facing that challenge in the first place, giving it a try, appreciating the journey of growing, mentally or physically. And at the end, it’s that what makes you proud of pushing beyond :)
I don’t like this guys videos but I keep watching them…
My shock when I opened my youtube app today:
Proud of you Nathaniel!
I would love to see more exercise and fitness videos with your down to Earth personality and using it for mental clarity ! I wish more people spoke mostly about the mental benefits of getting out rather than just #gains
I can relate to " how well I can do them" and "gym is boring". Only years later since I started doing yoga I figured out that I wasn't even doing a tabletop pose properly. When I heard "push the floor away" I realized that I was leisurely standing on all fours waiting for the next exercise to test my strength. But it's oftentimes those simple fundamental things that if done with awareness and certain "correctness" could be enough to discover where your limit is and build strength. Whether it's yoga or weight lifting it is always about finding your way to do it well.
As for gyms, don't want to hurt anybody, but it's still hard to grasp how one can find that cold steel, dark, sticky place to be motivating, ha-ha:)
Thank you for another amazing video!
I’ve been getting into photography lately, and there is a clear distinction between the camera gear heads and the artists. Most of what you find on UA-cam panders to the gear head. True artists use photography as their vehicle and don’t give a fuck about the gear unless it enables them to create in a more creative way. Working out can be the same. All the UA-cam videos and information about working out is the exercise equivalent of a gear head. I need to stop worrying about the gear and just do. On the way, I will learn what works and what doesn’t.
Favorite takeaways:
- The body being an ongoing project that's never really done.
- Not counting reps or sets but simply doing them with good form to "failure" (form beginning to waiver).
And yes, those outdoor calisthenics gyms are great. I've never been to a crowded one. I enjoy just doing a dead-hang while looking at the river and the trees. I think the one I go to has remained largely untouched since the '90s.
I'm really glad you enjoy running. I've been a runner for most of my life. It is great for stress relief and I believe it does have cognitive benefits, especially as you age. What I've discovered more recently is how important and what a difference proper nutrition can make. I lost 20 pounds in 2.5 months doing the same exercise I've been doing for quite a while but changing diet to low carb (and lower calories - 1800 to 2000 per day). I've been blown away by this. I haven't experienced anything this life changing since I trained and ran a marathon in 2002.
I also want to say that I really like your way of de-emphasizing metrics when it comes to your workout. Once you are experienced enough, you don't need metrics to know when you're getting a great workout. I've been taking the same approach to the dieting part of the equation. I don't worry about weighing myself, I just go by how my body looks and feels and staying disciplined with the food I actually put in my mouth. Having a fasting mindset has also been helpful. I'd always advise to see a doctor and nutritionist for advice before doing this.
Fantastic video! As a trainer I wish more people approached their health and fitness in this way.
Our Bodies are a long term project!
Seriously this must be the most convicing , beautiful and unique video I've ever seen about this topic . 👏👏
Got the motivation I needed
man I really appreciate you and the message you spread! I see you as an older brother/mentor and I really resonate with “Amor Fati” and what it means, even got it tattooed 💪🏽
i was hesitating whether or not to watch this video because its not a typical Nathaniel drew video topic, but after watching I realised I have a similar attitude and approach to working out as nate. i dislike the whole counting reps, and going to a gym. i prefer to be out in nature and focus on the quality of the motion I am doing that will strengthen my muscles. The whole gym culture sadly has got many people focused on the wrongs things and reasons. exercise needs to be enjoyable and really just kept simple. great vid again nate.
I think you're a genuine kind soul brother
Great video and Thanks ❤
Nice! Loved to see my hometown Salzburg in your video.
Such a nice workout spot!
thank you for this. i relate so much to this, especially hating gyms.
Dude, seriously. This video helps me to find motivation!
Dr. Peter Attia has really good data on what happens when you age. He has Vo2 Max charts, which is a rough estimate of your fitness, and it shows the decrease over the lifespan, which naturally happens. But he advocates for everyone to be in that top 25% of that chart in your early decades, because the reality is, if you're in your 20-30's and are only able to run a 10 minute mile (or equivalent vo2max for any sport), you will have significant issues mid to late life to the point you won't even be able to walk up stairs at a brisk pace. Fitness is absolutely critical to long term health.
I’m 9 months late, but this is exactly the video I needed and from the person I needed it from HAHAH. Everything has to be explained to me in aesthetics nowadays and that’s ok 😂❤ tysmmmmm
wow!! this was way better than any motivation video here on youtube made by huge guys that are clearly on steroids and think that "excuses are for losers". thank you nathaniel, this motivated me a lot! happy 2024 for you ❤
Absolutely fantastic video. Please, if you are able, move more and exercise. I am 60 years old and all my adult life was grossly overweight. 6 years ago I lost 110 lbs and fell in love with moving more, especially walking. Since then, I have started working in the gym a little, swimming, cycling and even a 5k park run, which I walked. A few months ago I started running on a treadmill, just in small stages and I have set a goal of doing a 5k park run where I run the whole race and do not stop and do not walk. In the gym and on the treadmill I have now managed to run 5k without stopping. I now need to move this outside which I know will be more difficult. But I can do it. As a 60 year old, my only regret was I waited so long to exercise and enjoy it.
thank you Nataniel for a great film and an important topic you bring to this world!
One thing is getting in shape physically but mental and spiritual preparation is as important, if not even more. I've been doing Steps to Knowledge for 6 years now and it's the best self-development decision I've ever made. It's a free online self-study book of practices. It has 365 Steps, one for each day. Perfect to begin in the New Year!
C U L T.
Steps to Knowledge is cult doctrine disguised as meditation. Do you believe that aliens control everything? Because the author does and that's what he's really trying to push.
Perfect way to begin the New Year eh?
Just an absolutely exceptional video. Spot on. Thank you for posting and sharing with us.
amazing video! My favorite part about sport is flexibility. I am 16 and for over 5 years I have been training at home by myself, but it was inconsistent. A week ago I decided to attend aerial acrobatics classes and after two sessions it literally changed my life. Now I feel as motivated as never and I will not only continue going in for acrobatics but also training every day at home. I found that my weaknesses are arms (not strong enough) and legs (wanna do splits), that's why I am focused on these muscles daily ;)
The video I needed to engage in an active lifestyle this 2024. Amazing first motivational part.
This is the kind of video you need to watch every new year. This video motivates, inspires and gives hope. Happy 2024, Nathaniel!
Doing something is soooo much better than doing nothing. Sometimes I even just play ONE song, and go hard with the kettlebell until the song is over. Just that, and the whole day feels better.
Absolutely agree. It is very important listening to your body, this requires a huge self knowledgement which it seems you got 👏🏽
❤❤❤👏🏆 *THANK YOU for this inspiring video!!!!!* 🏆👏❤❤❤
I used to feel effortlessly pulled to go for long daily walks when the sun started to set (beautiful!) & loved the feeling in my body of doing calisthenics and lifting weights. 🏋♂💪😄But I lost my joy in movement when health issues & injuries made it literally hurt. Exercise became a should instead of get to, and that soured things for *years.*
Having to go slow and listen so hard for stop signs because I get re-injured so easily has felt like a resented concession to what's been taken from me, like getting nothing but red lights every time you try to cross town, or being stuck in eternal traffic watching others zip by in the commuter lane. Painful *psychologically* as well as physically.
*THANK YOU for reminding me that going slow & listening to what my body feels instead of some pre-determined idea of what I "should" be doing is what I used to do NATURALLY when I was fit!* 🤩
I've been trying so hard to find motivation for what feels like an endless, unrewarding slog, especially when physical therapists have unknowingly kept psyching me out by giving me specific reps and sets that led to re-injury over and over again *(eff reps & sets!!!).* 😈🧐😄
This video reminded me that if I truly turn my expectations to zero and listen to my *body's* wisdom about what I CAN do (even if it's *half* a push up done with good form or literally just ten steps walking some days) movement IS sometimes possible for me without pain, and progress WILL come if I just keep showing up! 😃
And showing up is SO much more fun when you're really present and listening for what feels GOOD instead of bad. Huzzah! 🤩
*A THOUSAND THANK YOUs, Nathaniel, for this important reminder!!!*
🌈🌱🌿💐🍀💖👏
The cinematography of Part.1 is amazing
I try to do simple home workouts and go on regular walks. Besides that my main source of exercise is martial arts. Not the heavy sparring kind like (kick)boxing or MMA, but pencak silat. I find that the technicality of it, moving your body in somewhat unusual ways helps me stay in shape.
The cinematography in this video was top notch