Getting in shape can seem like a huge task, but with some strategic tips, anyone can reach their fitness goals. It takes planning, variety, nutrition, rest, and fun to add up to a healthy lifestyle.
-
Schedule Exercise Into Your Day
People who exercise regularly know how important it is to take exercise seriously. Many people starting out have a hard time finding the time to work out. Making a true commitment to an exercise program means you need to fit it into your busy schedule. Anyone can find excuses. But making a commitment to show up 3-4 times a week and put in the necessary work will get you a long way towards fitness success.
-
Mix Strength Training with Metabolic Conditioning
Add variety to your workout. If you work the same muscles the same way, you could plateau easily, which can lead to frustration. Create a program that involves strength training, including a good combination of squats, presses, and deadlifts. Vary the rep schemes and weights each week. At the end of your strength workout, program a short 5-15 minute metabolic conditioning workout. This could combine body weight movements like pull-ups, push-ups, and sit-ups, with cardio moves like running, rowing, or jumping rope. Vary these schemes to challenge your muscles every time.
-
Eat a Healthy Diet
We can only spend so much time in the gym. We have many more hours in the day to enhance or take away from all the work we do in exercising. A healthy diet is key to making progress in the gym. Eat good protein, veggies, and good fats at every meal. Limit sugars and empty calories. If you’re in a hurry, try a meal replacement shake. This way you can get all the good nutrients and protein you need without hitting the fast food drive-thru. This is obviously a subject worth investigating as there are many various solutions that fit each of our unique needs.
-
Take Rest Seriously
Some athletes will love the rush of endorphins they feel after a good workout – so much so that they’ll seek out that feeling too much. The body needs rest in order to build and repair muscle. Schedule rest days into your week. Make sure you’re getting adequate and restful sleep – 7-9 hours a night.
-
Have Fun!
You won’t see big gains if you hate what you’re doing. Spend time in the gym, but make sure to include plenty of fun outdoor activities like hiking and swimming. Get your family involved and active.