We All Have the Same 24 Hours: How You Spend Yours Shapes Your Health

Nutrition Tips

Mar 18

Written By Thunder and Lightning Athletic Club

*Meal prep can be a great way to spend time together and set yourself up for success!*

“I Don’t Have Time” – The Biggest Lie We Tell Ourselves

Life is busy. Work deadlines, errands, social commitments, kids, pets, emails, laundry—the list is endless.

But here’s the truth: everyone gets the same 24 hours each day. The difference between being fit, strong, and healthy versus tired, stressed, and out of shape? How you choose to spend that time.

Before you say, "But my schedule is different!"—We hear you. Life isn’t fair, and some people have more flexibility than others. But even with a packed schedule, you can take control of your time in small but powerful ways.

One of the best places to start? Meal prep.

The Hidden Time-Waster in Your Evenings

Think about this:

After a long day, you collapse onto the couch. You’re starving, but there’s nothing ready to eat. The next 30-60 minutes disappear into a black hole of:

Scrolling Uber Eats, trying to decide what won’t make you feel like garbage
Debating whether you have the energy to cook
Grabbing whatever is easiest, which usually isn’t the healthiest
Eating while watching Netflix, because hey, you “deserve” it after today’s chaos

Fast forward to bedtime, and you feel sluggish, guilty, and still behind on everything you needed to do. And then repeat this every day.

Sound familiar?

Meal Prep: The Secret Weapon for Saving Time AND Staying Healthy

Here’s an alternative: Instead of zoning out on the couch one or two nights a week, spend a couple of hours meal prepping with your partner, family member, or friend.

It doesn’t have to be complicated. Chop veggies, cook a big batch of protein, throw together some easy meals, and boom—dinners (or lunches) for the whole week are ready.

What you gain:

No more last-minute stress about what to eat
Zero time wasted debating takeout or cooking
Less money spent on impulse food decisions
More control over what goes into your body
Time freed up during the week for the important things—like training, getting outside, or spending time with people you love
Put a show, movie, audiobook, podcast, or music on and make it a date

Reclaim Your Time, Reclaim Your Health

People say they don’t have time to meal prep, but then they spend an hour every evening trying to figure out dinner. The time is already being spent—just not in a way that helps you.

By prepping ahead, you save time, eat better, and open up your schedule for the things that actually move you toward your goals.

So, what’s it going to be this week? Another series binge and a week of rushed, stressful meals? Or a couple of hours of meal prep that makes your life easier and keeps you on track?

Your 24 hours are yours to use. Choose wisely.

Take control of your time

*Use meal prep as a way to spend more quality time together, and gain more time together during the week while eating healthier.*

Not a fan of cooking? These meal prep services do the work for you:

Fresh Prep – Pre-portioned ingredients with quick, easy recipes
Hello Fresh – Meal kits delivered to your door, so you don’t have to think about it
2 Guys with Knives – Fresh, healthy, ready-to-eat meals (perfect for athletes)
Odd Bunch – Discounted fresh produce to help you eat well for less (Great option to save money but still cook make your own creations)
And many more in your area just a google search away.

Want more ways to build a healthier, stronger life—without wasting time?

Book a free consultation at Thunder & Lightning Athletic Club and let’s make a plan that works for you:

Ready to Put Your Strength to the Test?

Our Thunder and Lightning In-House Powerlifting Meet is happening Saturday, May 3, 2025! Whether you're a first-time lifter or an experienced competitor, this is your chance to hit new PRs, lift in a supportive environment, and have a blast with our community.