A Deep Dive into Fitness with Nsikan

Tjani Gomez
May 8
4 min read

Updated: Jul 11

Archie: Thanks for joining me today, bro. Let’s dive right in. You’ve been on a fitness journey for some time now. What’s one of the first lessons you learned that might surprise beginners?

Nsikan: Glad to be here, bro. One thing I’ve learned is that your scale doesn’t always reflect the changes going on in your body resulting from your training. It’s a static measurement of your body mass as a collective instead of ratios and percentages. As you progress into your fitness journey, you may hear more fitness diction of terms and phrases such as “water weight” or “body fat percentage.” Unless you have a more sophisticated scale, your typical bathroom scale will not delineate and display that.

Understanding Water Weight

Archie: That’s a great point. People talk a lot about "water weight" and its effects on the body in making you appear heavier than you actually are. Can you elaborate on that?

Nsikan: Sure. Water weight refers to temporary fluctuations in your body’s water retention. It can change based on your diet, activity level, or even the time of day. Speaking of timing, when you weigh yourself is important too. I always recommend weighing in first thing in the morning, after you’ve emptied your bladder and bowels. Weighing yourself after meals or later in the day can give a skewed number because of the food and water you’ve consumed.

Overcoming Challenges in Fitness

Archie: Makes sense. Let’s switch it up a bit. What’s been your biggest challenge in your fitness journey?

Nsikan: My personal struggle has been diet. It requires a different kind of discipline. You have to fight against your mental cravings. Some weeks, I’ll be good, but then some days, I’ll give in. Unfortunately, I may fall down the rabbit hole. I think the answer for me is just more discipline and sticking to it.

Managing Cravings

Archie: How do you manage those cravings?

Nsikan: It’s a work in progress. I eliminated juice and soda from my diet and drink only water and milk. I decreased the fatty foods and substituted them with more protein. I eat a lot more fruit. So far, it’s been going well. Your mind may crave something specific, but your stomach just wants nourishment.

The Power of Simple Workouts

Archie: Let’s talk about exercise. What’s your go-to workout?

Nsikan: I keep it simple—cardio. I personally like jogging. It’s straightforward, no fancy equipment needed, and it gets the job done.

Archie: And for someone who’s just starting their fitness journey, what advice would you give?

Nsikan: Actually start. That’s it. You can watch all the motivational videos, make plans, and buy fancy workout gear—but none of that matters if you don’t actually begin. Build a routine, no matter how small. Starting is the hardest part, but once you do, it gets easier to keep going.

The Myth of Fitness Hacks

Archie: Do you believe in fitness hacks or shortcuts?

Nsikan: I don’t believe in tricks or hacks when it comes to fitness. This is one of the very few areas in life where what you put in is what you get out. You have the control. You can study for months for an exam and still fail. You can meet all of the qualifications for a job and still not get hired. You can go out of your way for people and still get betrayed. It’s either you want it or you don’t. Get in the mental lab and get to work.

Motivational Thoughts

Archie: That’s powerful. Any final thoughts for readers who might be struggling to find their motivation?

Nsikan: Just remember, the hardest thing to do is often the easiest: taking that first step. Get in the mental lab and commit. It’s not about being perfect every day—it’s about showing up and putting in the effort.

Archie: Wise words. Thanks for sharing your journey, Nsikan. I believe a lot of people will find inspiration in your honesty and practicality.

Nsikan: Thank you, Archie. I hope it helps someone out there.

Takeaways and Tips from Nsikan’s Fitness Journey

Your Scale Isn’t Everything: Focus on metrics like body fat percentage and muscle mass rather than just the number on the scale. Use a smart scale or consult a professional for a deeper understanding.
Timing Matters: Weigh yourself at consistent times—preferably in the morning after using the bathroom—for the most accurate readings.
Diet is Key: Fitness isn’t just about exercise. A healthy diet requires mental discipline. Start small: eliminate sugary drinks, incorporate lean proteins, and prioritize natural, whole foods.
Consistency is King: Build a sustainable routine. Start with simple activities like jogging or walking, and gradually increase intensity as you grow stronger.
No Hacks, Just Work: Fitness is a straightforward equation: the effort you put in determines the results you get. Skip the shortcuts and commit to doing the work.
Overcome Analysis Paralysis: Don’t get stuck planning forever. Buy the gear, watch the videos, and then just start. Consistency will follow once you begin.
Mind Over Matter: Learn to differentiate between mental cravings and genuine hunger. Your body needs nourishment, not necessarily the specific indulgences your mind craves.
Progress, Not Perfection: Fitness is a journey. Don’t let bad days derail you—just get back on track and keep moving forward.

Commitment to fitness is a commitment to yourself. As Nsikan said, “Get in the mental lab and get to work.” The results will come, but only if you show up for yourself every day.

Follow him for more tips on Instagram @N_Self_Made