If you ignore the allegations that he “recreated situations” and “stayed at 5-star hotels,” Bear Grylls of Man Vs. Wild is hands-down the craziest badass in the history of mankind. From eating frog eyes to giving himself enemas in the middle of the ocean, it seems there is nothing this Brit can’t do. Luckily, somebody over at Primer Magazine got him to sit down long enough to interview him on his 5 most important lessons for surviving. The next time you’re flying in a helicopter over Siberia and somehow fall out, you’ll have these tips to keep you alive.

1. Be In Shape

Apparently, Bear’s weekly workouts span from skydiving, to gymnastics, to Jujitsu and paragliding. Then again, you must keep in mind that he was a part of the British Special Forces, which means he has probably endured more grueling workouts than 99% of the population. However, keeping fit through cardio and strength training will help you out whether your hiking in Yosemite or trekking through the forests of Vietnam.

2. Make Informed Decisions

This might seem obvious, but as Bear says, “When you stop making decisions, you die.” There are tons of handbooks out there that will educate you on survival. However, I personally feel that my weekly Man Vs. Wild marathons are enough to ensure I could survive sub-zero temperatures. That’s an informed decision, right?

3. The Wild Is Your Playground

We spend so much time sitting in front of computers, televisions, video games, and movie screens that few of us are even acquainted with nature. Find nearby hiking trails so you can at least feel comfortable being out of society. You’ll learn new things, become more relaxed, and if you’re ever trapped in the Amazon, you won’t embarrass yourself by screaming “EWWWW!” every time you get tree sap on your hands, and save it for when piranhas start eating your thighs.

4. Get Spiritual

You might not know this, but Bear Grylls is actually a devout Christian, and although he never mentions it, it makes sense that he has some sort of faith that makes him confident enough to jump out of flying planes and eat tiger carcasses. While organized religion might not be your thing, anything from meditation and Yoga to Catholic mass might help you become more confident in your abilities.

5. Know Your Sources of Support

Sure, Man Vs. Wild is about being stranded alone, but by learning to trust and rely on other people, such as your family and friends, you’ll increase your chances of survival. Many people who have been displaced by natural disasters or stranded in the wilderness report that their main inspiration was getting back to their family or friends.

Still don’t feel quite confident enough to brave the outback? If all else fails, keep some rope, a Swiss army knife, and flint on you at all times. You never know when you might find yourself stranded in the Rockies with only a camera crew by your side.