But doesn't that stock just taste like boiled water with bits in it?

Ever hear how carpal tunnel often comes from keeping your wrist still in a bent position? I read it's the lack of movement and bad angles that cause the most trouble, not just time spent. That post about propping your wrist made me remember that.

Last week on Chef Carlo's YouTube channel, he made risotto without stirring it once. That got me thinking about all the times I've stood over a pot for ages. My arm starts to hurt after like ten minutes, no joke. And you know what, the risotto still turns out pretty good even if I step away to check my phone. Sure, constant stirring might make it a bit creamier, but is that tiny difference worth the hassle? Cooking rules often seem like they're just there to make us work harder.

$50 insurance beats $200 surprises every time.

It's smart to learn from that kind of hurt. The real trick isn't to drop consistency all together, though. A good plan should have some give in it for days when you're just not right. I learned the hard way that sticking to the exact same reps and weight every time was asking for trouble. Building in lighter days or even a full rest day is what makes the tough days possible later on.