Active recovery is wildly misunderstood. Most people either skip it entirely or accidentally turn it into another training day, thinking a "chill" 11-mile run counts as recovery. We're breaking down what active recovery actually means, why it's critical even for everyday gym-goers, and the biggest mistakes people make (like undereating on recovery days or joining group fitness classes when you should be resting). From understanding what low intensity actually feels like to recognizing when life stress means you need to back off training, we're covering how to structure recovery that supports your progress. Because your body doesn't get stronger during training, it happens during recovery. If you're always tired, sore, and burnt out, proper active recovery might be the missing piece.

It's the end of the year, and if you're like most people, your routines are a mess, your energy is all over the place, and you're already thinking about January 1st and everything you're going to accomplish. But here's the truth: feeling your best in 2026 isn't about a dramatic New Year's resolution or restrictive program that starts on January 1st. We're breaking down what "feeling your best" actually looks like (physically, mentally, and socially), why most people struggle at year's end, and the non-negotiables that make everything else easier. From managing stress before it manages you to understanding the difference between intentional rest and being stuck in a rut, we're covering the foundational habits that create lasting change. Plus, we're giving you concrete signs you're on track, actionable morning habits to start today, and what you need to STOP doing in 2026. Because small wins repeated often will beat dramatic overnight changes every single time.

Quick snacks don't have to be complicated. Coach Maggie's Protein Energy Bites use simple pantry staples and come together in minutes - no baking required. Make a batch and keep them in the fridge for whenever you need something to tide you over between meals.

Society has conditioned us to judge health by appearance, our own and others', through media, fitness culture, and even our healthcare system. But looking "fit" doesn't mean you're healthy, and carrying more weight doesn't mean you're unhealthy. We're breaking down why appearance is a terrible health metric, introducing the health triangle (physical, mental/emotional, and social health), and explaining why body composition doesn't tell the whole story. From the social media trap and genetics reality to real stories of coaches who were at their leanest but least healthy, we're covering what actually matters for your wellbeing. Plus, we're giving you actionable steps to stop judging your health by the mirror and start measuring it by what truly counts: how you feel, how you function, and how you're nourishing all dimensions of your health, not just the visible ones.

Looking for a simple, flavorful breakfast? This shakshuka recipe is packed with protein, easy to customize, and perfect for meal prep. With eggs poached in a rich tomato sauce seasoned with cumin, paprika, and chili powder, this dish delivers 17g of protein and tons of flavor. Acacia shares her favorite easy version of this Maghrebi dish she grew up on.

Ready to ditch diet culture for good in 2026? Diet culture is more than just fad diets and calorie counting—it's a pervasive belief system rooted in racism, sexism, and control that convinces us our bodies are problems that need constant fixing. From the dark history of moralizing food (yes, the graham cracker guy has a wild backstory) to the modern marketing machine exploiting our insecurities on social media, we're breaking down where diet culture came from, how it shows up in your everyday life, and most importantly, how to break free from it. We'll cover the red flags to watch for (like moralizing food as "good" or "bad"), why shame never creates lasting change, and practical ways to pursue your goals—yes, even aesthetic ones—from a place of worthiness instead of punishment. Because ditching diet culture isn't giving up, it's choosing a life with more peace, energy, confidence, and actual health.

If you're taking or considering a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro for weight loss, working with a nutrition coach can be the difference between short-term results and long-term success. While these medications are powerful tools for appetite suppression and weight loss, they come with challenges—especially around under-eating, muscle loss, and building sustainable habits. We're breaking down why nutrition coaching is critical when using GLP-1s, how to avoid common pitfalls like rapid muscle loss and nutrient deficiencies, and what you need to know about maintaining your progress after you stop taking the medication. Whether you're already on a GLP-1 or just exploring your options, this guide will help you navigate your journey with expert support.

Need a meal that takes 5 minutes and actually keeps you full? This protein-packed dipping salad is pantry-friendly and easily customizable. With black beans, fire-roasted corn, avocado, and a tangy lime-yogurt dressing, it's got 65g of protein and 40g of fiber in the full recipe. Eat it with chips, throw it in a tortilla, or just grab a spoon.

Thinking about working with a nutrition coach in 2026 but not sure what to expect or if it's right for you? We're breaking down what makes Black Iron Nutrition different, what coaching with us actually looks like, and how to set yourself up for success. From our education-first approach and collaborative team behind the scenes to the benefits that go way beyond body composition changes, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to decide if we're the right fit for your goals. Plus, we'll share what makes our most successful clients thrive—spoiler: you don't need to be perfect, you just need to be consistent and coachable.

The holidays are busy, indulgent, and full of foods that can leave you feeling bloated, tired, and off your game. While most people focus on protein or calories this time of year, fiber might be the missing piece that actually keeps you energized, satisfied, and feeling good. From blood sugar stabilization to better digestion and mood support, prioritizing fiber during the chaos can help you navigate the season without relying on willpower or falling into the "I'll start fresh in January" trap. Here's why fiber matters now more than ever—and how to actually get more of it when your routine is anything but normal.

If you’re tired of chasing smaller and still not feeling better, stronger, or more confident, shifting to performance might be the thing that finally moves the needle. When you stop underfueling, start training with purpose, and let your goals be about what your body can do instead of what it should look like, everything changes — energy, progress, consistency, even your mindset. Here’s why 2026 might be the year you stop shrinking yourself and start building something.

High blood pressure is more common than most people think. And many of us have more control than we might think. With a few small shifts in nutrition, movement, hydration, stress, and sleep, you can create real change without overhauling your entire life. Today’s conversation breaks down the habits that support a healthier heart, why potassium matters more than salt, and the tiny daily rituals that help your nervous system relax. Simple steps, real impact, and a reminder that your heart deserves as much care as your training does.

Learning to model body positivity at home isn’t about perfect affirmations or forcing confidence — it’s about the tiny, almost invisible moments your family sees every day. The way you talk about food, how you treat your hunger cues, the sigh you make in the mirror, the language you use around movement. These patterns shape more than we realize. This week’s conversation breaks down how to shift those habits with compassion, honesty, and a lot less pressure. It’s a grounded, practical take on building a home culture where bodies aren’t judged — they’re simply lived in.

The holidays are busy, loud, joyful, and… secretly exhausting. In this post, we break down why sleep always seems to fall apart this time of year and share simple, realistic ways to protect your rest without sacrificing the moments that matter. If travel, stress, late nights, or family chaos usually derail your sleep, this guide will help you navigate the season feeling more grounded, rested, and human.

When life gets busy, the freezer is your best friend. Keeping things like frozen vegetables, fish, shrimp, and other quick-cooking items can make life so much easier—especially when you haven’t had time to meal prep. If you have quick, healthy options in your freezer, you’re much more likely to eat a good meal when you’re busy and short on time! All you need for this recipe is rice, shrimp, a bag of frozen veggies, and a simple stir-fry sauce (store bought or you can whisk together one in seconds). It’s a perfect weeknight staple.

Seasonal Affective Disorder is real, and winter can hit hard — but there are ways to support your mood that go beyond light boxes and supplements. In this post, we dig into how trying a winter sport (even as a total beginner) can give you structure, sunlight, movement, and a sense of play when you need it most. We break down the actual barriers — cost, gear, confidence, cold — and share practical ways to get started without feeling overwhelmed or out of place. If you’ve ever wondered whether skiing, snowboarding, or simply getting outside could help you feel more grounded this season, this post is your guide.

Most people think they need another workout to burn more calories — but the truth is far less dramatic and way more doable. In this post, Ryann, Chloe, and Maggie unpack everyday movement (NEAT), why it matters more than you think, and how small habits make a massive difference for energy, mood, body composition, and long-term health.

This high-protein, high-fiber chicken chili is everything a great meal prep should be: quick, hearty, nutritious, and incredibly budget-friendly — only $2.80 per serving! With 50g of protein, 10g of fiber, and a ton of flavor, this Instant Pot (or slow cooker) recipe makes eight satisfying portions that are perfect for busy weeks.

Holiday travel and family chaos can turn your routine upside down — but staying active doesn’t have to feel impossible. In this post we break down simple, realistic ways to keep movement in your life during the busiest time of year. No guilt. No pressure. Just practical strategies to help you feel good, stay grounded, and keep your momentum even when everything around you is unpredictable. Perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the holidays and take care of themselves.

If you’re tired, cranky, sore, not recovering, or wondering why your workouts feel harder than they should… there’s a good chance you’re simply not eating enough. This blog breaks down the most common signs of under-fueling, why it happens more often than people think, and how it impacts everything from your energy and focus to your hormones and performance.

We’re digging into the science of low energy availability, the real-world symptoms we see in clients every day, and the practical steps you can take to finally fuel your body the way it deserves. If you want better training, better recovery, and a better relationship with food, this is your starting place.