Today's episode features James Lowery from Rethink The Rat Race

James is a repeat offender back from episode 36.

In that episode, he dug into his background and how he and his wife retired in their 20's after amassing real estate in just two years.

This episode we dive more into his accomplishments in the health and fitness arena.

From lifting, cardio, diet, and more all through the lens of someone on their FI journey.

Listen, learn, and let us know what you think about this awesome episode!

Episode Summary

James' Background

As a refresh, James and Emily saved heavily

Invested that into real estate properties in Huntsville, AL

Then when they retired, they moved to Cyprus

Obviously COVID-19 had other plans and they had to return to the U.S.

Now they're putting a little effort into some of their rentals

And looking for their next adventure

James' Diet

He refers to his diet as "Freegan"

This is because he's 95% Vegan but will make exceptions

These exceptions are for non-vegan meals that avoid food waste

So if the food is already there and it's free, he'll eat it

James' fitness ventures

James has done bodybuilding competitions, lifting, and helped with physical therapy

He takes some time to break down the positives of each of these

Then we start ways to mix it up because cardio doesn't have to be just running on a treadmill

James loves trail runs, HIIT training, weight lifting, and the huge amount of content out there on YouTube

He recommends you recognize your body can do more than you think but also be careful of going to some extreme right off the start

Keep It Simple

James mentions how entire food groups do not have to be eliminated

Extreme style diets are so hard to be successful with long term

He recommends mostly vegetables / not too much mindset

That just means understanding the calories you have coming in but making veggies the prominent part of your plate

Also don't overthink the amount of weight your lifting

Keep it light if your form starts to slip, don't stress about breaking records

Also, don't forget the simple parts like hydration

Hydration can impact your calorie burning, energy, and cognition

Also don't stress about finding the perfect ratio of Fat/Carb/Protein

Don't Get Intimidated 

This journey doesn't have to be expensive

The food costs can be reasonable

James & Emily actually only spend $40/week per person and eat a ton of healthy foods and veggies

Then you don't have to pay a ton for a gym membership

There's plenty you can do at home, outside or for $20/mo at a Planet Fitness

And if you need to earn some extra cash, James actually covers side hustles that are great for your fitness

Also, don't get intimidated with bulking up to fast

Lifting weights doesn't magically make you get bulky

It can be a great way to get toned and burn calories

 

Key Takeaways

Get Creative: I loved the story of James doing this floor exercise to replace a pull-up movement

It doesn't have to be complicated: Too many people sit on the sidelines because they're looking for the perfect diet or workout plan when simple balanced eating and getting active is an amazing start.

Call to Action

Start a fitness or health challenge with someone. Maybe even put a little money on the line to keep up the motivation.

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