My Non-Negotiables While Going on a Cut
HEY LADIES, IT’S YOUR GIRL TOTALBODYCARLY - AND LET ME JUST be honest - i went wild this summer. my structure was not on point and although i was bulking, i was not doing it with intention. this led to some excess weight, and not good weight meaning muscle - we are talking i packed on some pounds of fat, which for anyone is no bueno. i decided i need to reel it in and start my cut asap.
Going on a cut is not easy - it takes discipline, consistency and structure. Over time, I’ve learned that having clear non-negotiables keeps me grounded when motivation dips or cravings hit. These are the rules I stick to, no matter what.
1. Cutting Calories and Sticking to Them
The foundation of any cut is a calorie deficit. my bodybuiding coach kim oddo used to tell me “It’s simple math” - burn more than you eat. I set my calorie goal and I stick to it. No mindless snacking, no “just one bite.” Precision and consistency are what get results, not perfection.
2. Getting My Cardio In - No Excuses
Cardio isn’t optional. Whether it’s walking, running, biking, or sweating on the stairmaster - it gets done. It doesn’t have to be fancy or perfect, it just has to happen. Even on tired days, I remind myself: any cardio is better than none.
3. Only One Cheat Meal Per Week… and It Has to Be Worth It
One cheat meal a week, that’s the deal. More than that, and it’s too easy to undo a week’s worth of hard work. But when I do have that cheat meal, it needs to be worth it - I’m talking my favorite spots, key restaurants, or even trying out a new one that’s top-tier, best of the best, explore page poppin’. I want it to be an experience - something I actually look forward to, not just random junk.
4. Keeping My Stress Levels Down
Cutting isn’t only physical; it’s mental. Stress can stall progress fast. I’m intentional about protecting my peace - cutting out anything (or anyone) that drains my energy. Low stress, high focus, that’s the goal.
5. Getting That Water In
Hydration is underrated. It keeps everything running smoothly - metabolism, digestion, energy, recovery. I hold myself to a minimum of one gallon a day. No excuses.
A cut is a test of discipline, but it’s also a lifestyle check. My non-negotiables keep me focused and remind me why I started. It’s not about being perfect every day - it’s about being consistent, committed, and proud of the work I’m putting in.
-Totalbodycarly
