It's a hack because it is an unusual or counter-intuitive way of solving a problem. Or meta-solve a problem -- recharge your mental batteries so when you get back you solve your real problem better, if you wish.
This is just as much a hack as articles about exercise or nutrition are a hack. They hack the hackers, who ... hack.
This is just as much a hack as articles about exercise or nutrition are a hack. They hack the hackers, who ... hack.