Confession time… Raise your hand if you’ve ever left your grocery list at home! (You can’t see us right now but our hand is up!) It’s the worst, isn’t it? You walk in, you see those big bright lights, and all of a sudden… your mind goes blank. What were you here for again? This is a great reminder of how the “magic” of a great shopping trip begins before you hit the store. It may seem like a mindless chore, but grocery shopping is an important life skill. Our Campbell Personal Trainers know it plays a HUGE role in your results, your health, AND your bank account! That’s why we’ve put together a list of 9 Pro-Level Grocery Skills to help you make the most of your shopping trips. 9 Pro-Level Grocery Skills to Implement ASAP: 1. Plan first, then make your list Before you head to the store, scan your kitchen for what you have on hand. Make a meal plan for the week, using up any food that is about to expire. Then, make your grocery list, listing “like” items together for easier shopping. 2. Shop the perimeter – but make produce your last stop Hit the frozen foods, dairy, and meat sections before you add the most fragile products to your chart – fresh fruits, veggies, and eggs. 3. Go seasonal + local Choose fruits and veggies that are in season and are locally sourced – they usually are fresher and tastier. Plus, you’ll be supporting local farms. 4. Buy in bulk (but only if it makes sense) For non-perishable items you buy a lot (like oatmeal or rice), buying in bulk can save you money. But if it’s something you don’t use often, it may expire before you have a chance to use it. 5. If your grocery store has an app, download it Snag some great coupons based on your shopping history and store maps to help you find items. 6. Try store brands & shop sales Store brands are usually the same quality as name brands but less expensive. When it comes to sales, being flexible is the key – but like bulk items, don’t buy unless it’s something you’re going to use. 7. Read food labels Most of the items in your cart may not have a label because real “whole” foods don’t need them. For the ones that do? Read your labels. 8. Unit pricing Smart shoppers compare the unit price (e.g., per ounce or liter) of different items instead of the price per container. Sometimes those bigger boxes aren’t the deal they appear to be! 9. Know the staff Get to know the store’s fishmonger, butcher, and produce manager. They can steer you to great deals on the freshest food or suggest new items to try. 🎁 And here’s a bonus tip: be flexible and prepared to “pivot” your meal plan (and grocery list) based on in-store deals or what the store has on the shelves. Because… sometimes the store will surprise you with a sale on Bing cherries or wild-caught sockeye salmon… and you just HAVE to have it! Committed to Your Success, The Method3 Fitness Team If you’re ready to keep things simple and focus on what works, our Campbell Personal Trainers are here to help you find a sustainable, simple route to your goals. Fill out the "Request More Information Now" box above to receive your free consultation with our caring Campbell personal trainers OR call us 408-371-1212 to connect. We're looking forward to talking with you! Method3 Fitness is conveniently located in San Jose. Our team of personal fitness trainers serve clients in Los Gatos, Campbell, Willow Glen and other surrounding Bay Area cities. If you found this blog useful, be sure to let us know and SHARE it on your favorite channel! The Method3 Fitness blog is updated weekly by our San Jose personal trainers. All content is designed to improve the way you move, eat, and think so you can achieve your goals and live stronger for today. Check back here each week and LIKE our Fan Page, to stay up to date on the latest tips, strategies and methods to get active, gain energy and get healthy again!