CJ’s 9 Secrets to Winning—in the Game and in Life
From clean eating to clean intentions, CJ Cansino reveals the habits, mindsets, and rituals that help him win on the court, and in everything beyond it.
1. Eat well, but know when to indulge.
Cansino’s definition of eating well changes depending on the time of year. Off season, he bulks up and hits 4,000 calories a day. During the season, he eats light meals throughout the day. And on game day? There’s no holding back. “I let myself eat whatever I’m craving. I want to be happy when I go to the game.”
2. Be consistent about working out.
Cansino keeps his body in tip-top shape by moving regularly. He works out, practices, and lifts weights. “Off the court, that’s when you build your habits to be more consistent,” he says.
3. Take care of yourself inside and out.
Confidence comes from taking care of yourself, says Cansino. That includes your appearance. “I used to think skin care was just for girls. But now I know better.”
4. Meditation and prayer can work wonders.
Cansino shares, “I had a teammate tell me, ‘Why can’t I do the things I used to do?’ I told him to meditate. He tried it and he improved.” Going to church is also self-care for Cansino. “I talk to God. My confidence comes from hard work, self-care, and God.”
5. Prioritize rest and recovery.
“Rest is so important. I get a massage, I go for ice baths, I eat well. I make sure I get six hours of sleep and then, during the day, I nap for 15 minutes to an hour.”
6. Carve out some time for yourself.
Cansino values alone time. On game days, he goes extra early to the court. “I go three hours before the game. I’m usually the first one there. Those three hours are crucial for me. I like getting some quiet time before the game.”
7. Be present for your loved ones.
Cansino loves spending recovery time with his family and his girlfriend. “Some people think a rest day is lying down, watching Netflix, being on your phone. I like going to the mall with my girlfriend, with my family. We eat out.”
8. Don’t quit.
“I’ve been through a lot. I’ve gotten injured twice. But I’m still here. I was able to play again. Every time I have a bad game, that’s the lowest point of my life. But I make sure that I talk to people and I don’t give up.”
9. Play hard, but stay kind.
When asked what value he carries with himself on the court, Cansino said, “Kindness. Because my opponents have families. They’re working for their families. So even if you want to win, you have to make sure that you don’t injure them.”
Additional product captions and quotes:
Belg Belgica
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser. “Most of my skin care is from COSRX. I discovered it through my girlfriend. I’ve been using it for two years.”
Gillette Blue II Plus and Gillette Foamy Lemon Lime Shave Foam. Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick. Rexona Men Sport Defense. Le Labo Bergamote 22 Shampoo.
Belg Belgica
Belg Belgica
Jo Malone English Oak & Hazelnut and Le Labo The Matcha 26. “I like scents that aren’t too strong. The kind that makes you go, ‘Is he wearing a cologne or a perfume?’”
