Exercise Spotlight: Rucking

If you’ve been hearing about “rucking” lately, you’re not alone. This simple practice—walking while carrying extra weight—has been gaining popularity, and for good reason. Originally inspired by military training (where soldiers carry loaded packs over long distances), rucking is now making its way into mainstream fitness. It’s a surprisingly accessible way to build strength, improve endurance, and burn more calories—without complicated equipment or high-impact moves.

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Ford Stevens
Get Back on Track After a Summer Slump

Let’s face it—summer can throw us off our game. Vacations, heatwaves, backyard cookouts, and a general shift in routine can make it easy to skip workouts, reach for convenience foods, or just slow down. If your motivation took a backseat in July, you’re not alone. And here’s a better way to look at it: August and September offer a built-in reset!

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Ford Stevens
Summer Meal Prep Made Easy: Light, High-Protein Recipes

Fresh, seasonal meal prep ideas to beat the heat and support your fitness goals!

When the temperature rises, heavy meals and hot ovens lose their appeal. But your fitness goals don’t take a summer vacation—and neither should your nutrition. Summer is the perfect time to shift toward meals that are simple, refreshing, and packed with protein. With a little planning, you can prep light, satisfying dishes that support your workouts and help you stay on track—even when it’s too hot to cook.

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Ford Stevens
Why Strength Training is Still Essential in the Summer

Strength training isn’t seasonal. It’s foundational.

Summer in New Orleans doesn’t just bring sunshine—it brings heat, humidity, and plenty of reasons to slow things down. When stepping outside feels like walking into a sauna, it's tempting to cut back on workouts altogether or settle into a lighter routine: maybe more walks, casual bike rides, or just skipping the gym until things cool off.

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Ford Stevens
Spring Training for a Stronger You: How to Refresh Your Workout Routine

As the days get longer and the weather warms up, spring brings with it a natural burst of energy and motivation. It's the perfect time to shed winter sluggishness and breathe new life into your fitness routine. Whether you're just getting started or looking to level up, spring offers a powerful opportunity to reset your focus and commit to a stronger, healthier you.

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Ford Stevens
How to Shake Off Winter Habits and Revamp Your Fitness Routine

As winter fades and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to hit the reset button on your fitness and nutrition habits. If you’ve been working out less and indulging in heavier meals during the colder months, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Instead of feeling guilty, use this opportunity to ease back into a sustainable, energizing routine. Here’s how to transition out of winter mode and set yourself up for success.

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Ford Stevens
Beyond the Scale: Non-Scale Victories and Other Ways to Measure Fitness Progress

When it comes to fitness, the scale is often the go-to measure of progress. But relying solely on that number can be frustrating and misleading. Weight fluctuates due to factors like water retention, muscle gain, and even the time of day. The good news? There are plenty of other ways to measure your fitness progress that have nothing to do with the scale. These "non-scale victories" can be just as—if not more—motivating and meaningful.

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Ford Stevens
The Truth About Spot-Reducing Fat: What Works and What Doesn’t

If you’ve ever wished you could shrink just your belly, slim down your arms, or tone up your thighs without changing much else, you’re not alone. The idea of spot-reducing fat—losing fat in a specific area by targeting it with exercise—is one of the most persistent myths in the fitness world. Let’s set the record straight and dive into what really works when it comes to fat loss and body composition changes.

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Ford Stevens
Supplements 101: What Works and What to Avoid

The world of fitness supplements can be overwhelming. With countless options on the market, it’s easy to feel lost in a sea of promises for bigger muscles, faster recovery, and improved performance. As the founding trainer at Body By Ford, I often get questions about which supplements are worth the investment and which are better left on the shelf. Let’s break it down so you can make informed choices for your fitness journey!

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Ford Stevens
Snacks for Work: Fuel Your Day the Healthy Way!

When you’re busy at work, it’s easy to reach for convenient snacks that offer a quick energy boost but leave you hungry soon after. The key to smarter snacking, especially for those focused on weight loss or maintaining energy throughout the day, is choosing foods that are high in protein and fiber while being low in calories. These snacks keep hunger and cravings at bay, making it easier to stay on track with your goals. Here’s a guide to work-friendly snacks that will help keep hunger at bay and cravings in check…

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Ford Stevens