No matter how long we’ve been exercising or how on-track we feel, there is always room to improve when it comes to working out.
It’s also good to refresh your memory on things that you can do to improve your workout accountability and perform at your peak ability.
Here are some key things to do and remember when working out.
Drink, Drink, Drink
In addition to the fact that our bodies need an adequate amount of water (about 3 quarts minimum) each day to function properly, sweating increases water loss.
Be sure to drink before, during and after your workout. Carry a water bottle with you during your workout to encourage drinking, instead of having to stop at a water fountain repetitively.
Find a Workout Buddy
Motivation is much greater when shared.
Ever notice that you clean your house much faster when you have a friend over to talk to while doing so? Being around others makes us feel more motivated and accountable. By finding someone who can meet you to exercise a few times a week, you are more likely to show up instead of skipping that workout.
Practice Consistency
While any workout is better than none, consistency is best. Create a schedule where you absolutely work out x amount of days per week and leave a few days open as optional.
If your schedule allows and you’re feeling good on one of your “off” days, get some exercise in. Otherwise, don’t allow yourself to compromise on your scheduled workout days.
Add Some Weights
Try mixing some strength training into your aerobics routine. If you normally walk on a treadmill for cardio, grab a light pair of hand weights and pump your arms while walking. You can also try picking up some weights during an aerobics class for an extra burn and boost to your routine.
Focus on Pace
It’s easy to get lost in a combination of a cardio session and a conversation with your gym pal. But the less we focus on the task at hand, the more likely we are to slow down or not exert ourselves as much as we should be.
Try to keep a steady pace, particularly while on a stationary bike or elliptical, and take note of where you’re at. If you normally walk a 3.0 on the treadmill, boost your speed up by .1 every week to increase exertion and distance covered.
As with all things in life, plateaus happen and brick walls appear out of nowhere.
It’s important to keep changing up your routine by tweaking little things here and there.
Keeping our bodies guessing about which physical activity it will be performing next is the key to improvement and progress.
By always making our workouts better, we will always get better ourselves
