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Nutrition Hack: Eating Out Without Derailing Your Progress
PLUS: Resource Highlight: Fuel Your Goals Without Overthinking It

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In today’s 3M Insider:
Nutrition Hack: Eating Out Without Derailing Your Progress
Pro Tip: Train Smarter in the Heat
Most Asked Question: Do I Really Need to Do Cardio?
Nutrition Hack: Eating Out Without Derailing Your Progress
Summer brings all kinds of social events — backyard BBQs, dinners out, and vacations. For a lot of guys, this is where the wheels come off. You’re making progress, but suddenly the menu, the drinks, and the social pressure feel like too much to handle.
The truth? You can enjoy meals out without losing momentum. It’s not about being perfect — it’s about making a few smart moves that keep you in control while still letting you enjoy the moment.
Here are a few quick strategies to keep you on track:
Check the menu ahead of time – Look for lean proteins like chicken, steak, or fish, and swap fried sides for vegetables.
Control your portions – Restaurant servings are often oversized. Split a meal or ask for a to-go box before you start eating.
Focus on protein first – Filling up on protein helps curb cravings and keeps you from overindulging.
Plan around the big meal – Keep your earlier meals lighter and higher in protein to balance out the day.
Drink plenty of water – Staying hydrated helps with appetite control, especially in the summer heat.
You don’t need perfection to make progress. Small, intentional choices add up — even on the road or at the cookout.
🎥 Tap here to check out our Restaurant Survival Guide – How To Order Like a Pro
Pro Tip: Train Smarter in the Heat
Summer workouts hit different — but they don’t have to slow your progress.
When the temps climb, so does the strain on your body. Training in the heat can tax your energy, elevate your heart rate faster, and even mess with your recovery if you’re not careful. But with a few smart adjustments, you can stay consistent and safe while building strength all season.
Here’s how to keep crushing it in the summer heat:
Hydrate like it’s your job
Drink water before, during, and after training.
Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces daily, and more if you’re sweating heavily.
Train earlier or later
Schedule your workouts for early mornings or evenings when temperatures are lower.
Avoid peak heat hours, usually between 12 and 4 PM.
Lighten up your gear
Wear moisture-wicking, light-colored clothes to help regulate body temperature.
Listen to your body
Dizziness, nausea, or headaches are signs to cool down.
Don’t be afraid to lower intensity if the heat is extreme. It’s about staying consistent, not pushing to the point of burnout.
Refuel smarter
Heat increases sweat loss of electrolytes. Include potassium and sodium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, or a pinch of salt in meals.
The key is consistency over heroics. Adjust your approach to the season and keep the momentum rolling.
“It’s not about how much you sweat; it’s about how smart you train.”
— Michael Phelps
Most Asked Question: Do I Really Need to Do Cardio?
Short answer: No… but also yes.
Here’s the deal:
You don’t need to spend hours on the treadmill to burn fat or get shredded. Resistance training, dialed-in nutrition, and staying consistent will do most of the heavy lifting.
But cardio isn’t worthless either. Done right, it can:
Boost heart health and endurance.
Help with recovery on rest days.
Keep you mentally sharp and resilient.
Burn a few extra calories if you enjoy it.
The key? Cardio should support your goal—not become the goal.
If fat loss is the focus, prioritize strength training and nutrition.
Use cardio as a “tool,” not a punishment. Keep it short, intentional, and sustainable (like 2-3 brisk walks or light intervals per week).
Quick Check-In
📬 Hit reply — What’s your best tip for staying on track when eating out or at social events?
Share your story — it could be the next insight we feature in the Insider!
Let’s keep raising the standard —
— Ryan & the 3M Coaching Team
