December 28, 2022 - 206 lbs.
Over the past decade, my weight has been on a roller coaster, dancing between 195 and 205 pounds. Recently, it reached a new peak at 206. The last two years, marked by the pandemic, unemployment, remote work, and a surge in food deliveries, have left their marks. Toss in a family health scare, and you've got a recipe for a much-needed change. It was time.
On that fateful morning of December 28, 2022, I dragged myself out of bed and faced the mirror with newfound clarity. The reflection staring back at me was not one I was proud of.
In my past journeys to shed extra pounds, I've dabbled in various weight loss strategies, each with its own fleeting success. The pounds would vanish only to return, and my motivation would wane after a mere 30 to 60 days. It became almost comical that every weight loss triumph was celebrated with a slice of pizza.
Exercise, though a constant in my life, hasn't been a magic wand. Growing up in the Midwest, my dad introduced me to weightlifting, but my teenage arrogance dismissed it. In college, I succumbed to the allure of the treadmill, and post-college, I embraced diverse workout routines, even packing on muscle and hitting 215 pounds with a lean 14% body fat at the age of 25.
Ah, the folly of youth
At 25, I believed I could eat anything as long as I lifted weights. Ignorant of the importance of a balanced diet, I neglected healthy food. Fast forward to my 30s, with a spouse, kids, work stress, and erratic workouts, the pounds crept back in. Muscle surrendered to fat, and the scale now read 215 pounds with a disheartening 25% body fat at 40.
In pursuit of a solution, I joined the gym, following the fitness industry's mantra of getting a trainer and sweating it out. But, as the TV ads for miracle weight loss gadgets suggest, there's more to losing weight than mere exercise. The missing piece was diet and nutrition.
Approaching my 40s, I enlisted a trainer, embracing a nutrition plan with fruits, veggies, protein, and carbs. The pounds obediently slid away, but the cost and time demands made the plan unsustainable. As expected, the weight returned, each pound stealthily accumulating over the years until I found myself back at 206.
Enter the Pandemic Pause
During the pandemic, I hit pause on my gym membership, opting for Apple Fitness workouts. Home workouts, however, proved ineffective. Realizing the insufficiency, I reactivated my gym membership and committed to three days a week at the gym.
In the realm of physical activity, the key is to choose what you enjoy. For me, it's fitness classes and lifting weights. But, the advice is to find what suits you and your family. Starting a weight loss journey is not the time for radical changes; it's about starting small.
Discovering the Bag
In December, as I recommitted to my fitness journey, I found myself in need of a gym bag. In the corner of my room lay an extra backpack from a recent vacation, holding the answer.
As I unpacked, relics of my unhealthy past emerged—Coca-Cola bottles, candy wrappers, an iPad loaded with movies, wired earphones, and fast food receipts. The reasons for my weight hitting 206 were glaring—it wasn't just about exercise; it was about my diet and habits, especially dietary ones.
The bag, weathered and beaten, mirrored me—an old pack filled with regrettable decisions. Despite its lack of glamor, it didn't smell like disappointment.
Instead of tossing everything out, I chose to keep some items—a cleaned Coke bottle, a fast-food receipt, and an empty candy wrapper. These artifacts serve as a visual timeline of my journey, a tangible acknowledgment of my past, and a declaration of ownership over my future. Packed for the gym, I carried this symbolic bag out the door.
What's Your Bag?
Fast forward to today. You're here to learn the secrets, but I want to take you further. We're not just going to build a bag; we're going to explore its contents, deciding what stays and what goes. It's time to delve into your unique journey. But first let’s start with your bag.
Embarking on a health journey isn't just about personal well-being; it's a chance to align our choices with a broader vision of sustainability. Beyond workout routines and dietary changes, even the accessories we choose can make a significant impact. In this guide, we dive into the practical aspects of health journey bags and explore sustainable and eco-friendly options, offering a holistic approach to personal and environmental well-being.
Streamlining the Chaos of Mornings
Mornings, often a battlefield of willpower, pose a unique challenge in jumpstarting health routines. The right bag, thoughtfully packed the night before, becomes a game-changer. With all essentials in one place, excuses vanish, and the transition from waking to stepping out becomes seamless.
A Symbolic Reminder
Your health journey bag is more than a practical tool; it's a powerful symbol. Positioned strategically in your daily line of sight, it becomes a visual cue, a reminder of your commitment to a healthier lifestyle. It's the nudge you need to get out of bed and take the first steps toward your fitness goals.
Battling Decision Fatigue
The fatigue from making too many decisions can be a significant obstacle to maintaining a healthy routine. By prepping your bag with essentials, you minimize morning decision-making. This reduction in decision fatigue increases the likelihood of sticking to your health plan.
Choosing the Right Bag
Size and Capacity:
The bag should be spacious enough to hold your essentials but not so large that it becomes cumbersome. Think about what you'll need, such as gym shoes, a water bottle, and a jacket, and choose a bag with sufficient space. If it helps, Limit the total bag to weigh no more than Ten Pounds fully loaded. (Ah, the Ten Pound Bag)
Durability:
Given the daily wear and tear, durability is crucial. Look for a bag made from high-quality materials with sturdy zippers and reinforced stitching.
Comfort:
If you're carrying the bag for an extended period, comfort is key. Opt for a bag with padded straps and a design that distributes weight evenly.
Separate Compartments:
Organizing your essentials is made easier with separate compartments. Choose a bag with pockets for items like your phone, keys, and gym card. (We will discuss the phone later)
Style:
While not the primary focus, the bag's style can play a role in your motivation. Pick a bag that reflects your personality and makes you feel good about carrying it. Pick a style based on who you want to be. Not who you were.
The following are a few options available on Amazon. Follow the links to see the items on Amazon.
(Disclosure: Joja Nutrition is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)
My list of top backpacks on Amazon
The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is a versatile option with a spacious main compartment, multiple pockets, and a built-in USB charging port. Designed for comfort with padded shoulder straps and an airflow back design, it not only carries your essentials but also offers a sleek and professional look.
Pros: Spacious, USB charging port, professional design.
Cons: Limited color options.
Under Armour's Hustle 5.0 Backpack is renowned for its durability and water-resistant finish, making it suitable for various weather conditions. Featuring a large, gusseted front laundry/shoe pocket and a water-repellent front valuables pocket, this backpack combines both comfort and style with adjustable HeatGear shoulder straps.
Pros: Durable, water-resistant, spacious.
Cons: Limited interior organization.
The AmazonBasics Laptop Computer Backpack is a practical choice with a large multi-compartment design. It includes a dedicated laptop sleeve, organizational compartments, and a front pocket with multiple pockets. This backpack suits those who need to carry both work and workout essentials.
Pros: Affordable, multi-compartment design, laptop sleeve.
Cons: Basic design.
The High Sierra Loop Backpack is celebrated for its sturdy construction and multiple compartments. With a dedicated TechSpot sleeve, a mesh beverage pocket, and adjustable side compression straps, this backpack offers vibrant color options for a touch of personal style.
Pros: Sturdy construction, multiple compartments, vibrant colors.
Cons: Bulky design
JanSport's SuperBreak Backpack is a classic and timeless choice. With a single main compartment and a front utility pocket, it offers simplicity and ease of use. Padded shoulder straps ensure comfort during extended wear, making it ideal for those who prefer a minimalist design.
Pros: Classic design, durable, affordable.
Cons: Limited features.
The Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack is a versatile option with a large main compartment and additional pockets for organization. Featuring a padded laptop and tablet sleeve, it caters to both work and play. The mesh-covered back panel ensures ventilation during prolonged wear.
Pros: Versatile, laptop sleeve, ventilation.
Cons: Higher price point.
The PUMA Evercat Contender 3.0 Backpack blends style and functionality with its sleek design and practical features. Including a laptop sleeve, front zipper pocket, and padded shoulder straps, this backpack is suitable for those looking to make a fashion statement while staying organized.
Pros: Stylish design, laptop sleeve, affordable.
Cons: Limited size.
The North Face Borealis Backpack is a popular choice for its durability and thoughtful design. Featuring a FlexVent suspension system, a padded laptop sleeve, and reflective details for enhanced visibility, this backpack is suitable for both outdoor adventures and daily commuting.
Pros: Durable, ergonomic design, laptop sleeve.
Cons: Higher price point.
The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe is a premium option focusing on organization and durability. Including a dedicated laptop compartment, multiple organizational pockets, and a water-resistant front pocket, this backpack caters to professionals and frequent travelers.
Pros: Premium quality, extensive organization, laptop compartment.
Cons: Higher price point.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Backpack Options
You always have the option to use a pack you already have. However, If you do choose to buy one, it doesn’t hurt to consider sustainability.
Addressing the Shift Toward Sustainability.
As society grows increasingly conscious of its environmental impact, the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly choices continues to surge. This shift towards conscious consumerism extends to backpacks, with individuals seeking options that align with their commitment to environmental well-being.
Materials Matter.
When exploring sustainable backpack options, the materials used in their construction are crucial. Look for backpacks made from eco-friendly materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, or innovative options like hemp. These choices contribute to reducing resource consumption and minimizing the ecological footprint associated with traditional manufacturing processes.
Manufacturing Processes.
Beyond materials, the manufacturing processes employed in creating the backpack play a pivotal role in determining its overall eco-friendliness. Opt for brands prioritizing sustainable practices throughout their production chain, including energy-efficient manufacturing, waste reduction initiatives, and ethical labor practices. By choosing a backpack crafted with environmentally conscious methods, you actively contribute to fostering a more sustainable industry.
Brands Leading the Way.
Several brands have embraced the challenge of creating backpacks that meet users' functional needs while adhering to high sustainability standards. Brands like Patagonia, known for their commitment to environmental activism, offer backpacks made from recycled materials and adhere to strict environmental standards. Similarly, Fjällräven emphasizes sustainability in both material selection and manufacturing, promoting durable and eco-friendly options.
Eco-Friendly Features.
Look for backpacks that incorporate additional eco-friendly features. Some brands integrate water-resistant coatings that are free from harmful chemicals like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), reducing potential environmental impact. Additionally, backpacks with a modular design allowing for easy repairs or replacement of specific components contribute to longevity and reduce overall waste.
Packing Your Health Journey Bag
Once you decide on a bag, it’s time to pack. Now I would start with only a few items. Leave room for the items we will talk about in the next several weeks. However, depending on the physical activity you choose you may want to start with a few starter items. Some suggestions would be:
Gym Shoes:
Select comfortable and supportive shoes suitable for your preferred exercise activities.
Water Bottle:
Staying hydrated is crucial. Opt for a reusable water bottle that fits easily into your bag.
Jacket or Outer Layer:
If your morning routine involves outdoor activities, pack a lightweight jacket to stay warm during cool temperatures.
Workout Clothes:
If you plan to exercise in the morning, pack a set of workout clothes to change into.
Personal Items:
Include essentials like your phone, keys, gym card, and any other personal items you may need throughout the day. (Again, We will talk about technology later)
Resistance Bands:
For a portable and effective workout option.
Yoga Mat:
If your routine involves stretching or yoga exercises.
Fitness Tracker:
To monitor your daily activity and progress.
Conclusion: Your Bag, Your Commitment
In conclusion, selecting the right bag for your health journey is more than just choosing a practical accessory. It's about creating a tangible representation of your commitment to a healthier lifestyle. The top ten best-selling backpacks on Amazon offer a range of options to suit different preferences and needs. As you pack your bag each night, envision the positive choices it represents. Your health journey starts with the simple act of showing up, and the right bag can be the catalyst for transformative change. Embrace the journey, celebrate your successes, and let your bag be a constant reminder of the healthier, happier version of yourself that you're striving to become. Until next time, just show up. I don’t care if you go to the gym and sit in the lobby for 45 minutes. Just go.
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