Anyone can show up to the gym, but only a few people really make the most out of the time they spend there.
If you’ve been working out for a while but are feeling like your workouts aren’t delivering the results you want to see, then this blog has some tips to help you maximise your exercise routine. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gym-goer looking to take your fitness to the next level, there’s something for everyone in the following list.
Invest in a personal trainer
Most of us have no idea what we’re doing when we’re at the gym. While we might know how to use the machines and split our time between upper and lower body exercises, we don’t have a solid understanding of how we can achieve specific fitness goals.
London one to one personal training can help you to accelerate your fitness journey and optimise your workout plan. You’ll be able to work closely with a professional who understands the ins and outs of sports science, which means you might even be able to build more muscle in less time. Spending hours on the treadmill each week probably won’t tone your legs in the way you want, but a weightlifting plan tailored to your needs just might.
Give yourself time to recover
Logically it might seem like going to the gym every day will help you get fitter. However, this will only lead to burnout and injuries. If you’re finding it hard to use the leg press machine the third day in a row, then start giving yourself more time off. However, recovery doesn’t necessarily mean doing absolutely nothing. You could work on different parts of your body each day, alternating the muscles that are being pushed to their limits. Alternatively, consider doing some active recovery, like yoga or stretching.
Eat well
Going to the gym and eating unhealthily is better than nothing, but if you want to get more out of your workouts you should think about changing up your diet. This doesn’t necessarily mean protein shakes and steamed chicken, but it does mean thinking more carefully about what you’re putting into your body. For example, you should be eating plenty of greens and healthy carbohydrates to fuel your gym sessions, so swap your greasy pizza for a buddha bowl and enjoy oats over bacon for breakfast.
Have a plan
If you don’t plan your workouts in advance, you could waste a lot of time once you actually arrive at the gym. Ideally, you’ll know your routine like the back of your hand, allowing you to zip around the machines in record time. However, you shouldn’t let other people derail you too much. Sometimes the equipment you need will be taken. Don’t get too hung up on the order you need to do each exercise and move on to a piece of kit that is available. Standing around waiting for the elliptical will only eat into your precious time.
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