Working out regularly is one of the best decisions you made for yourself. Most people who join the gym expect immediate results after just a few days of training. This is not possible. Whereas the effects of exercise are immediately apparent during and after exercise, you must be a little patient and consistent to see gross changes. The key to consistent results involves enjoying the journey.
So here are tips to help you enjoy your gym workouts
- Prepare mentally
When you see somebody lifting weights, the body is as equally involved as the mind. A good workout starts with adequate mental preparation. Allocate a time that is convenient for you in your schedule. The more regular the time, the more your mind adapts to it. This may not be possible sometimes when you are working flexible shifts. However it is important to create that time when all your focus is just work out, no phone calls, no other activity is scheduled at this time.
- Eat well before your workout
Food provides the necessary nutrition that is needed during exercise. By eating well, I don’t mean you stack your stomach with starch and complex carbs, eat healthy and at least two or three hours before the workout. Exercising on a full stomach can lead to discomfort and muscle stitches which may reduce the overall quality of your work out.
- Have good gym attire
This can not be overstated. Comfort is important during a work out because it makes you avoid injuries and enjoy the whole experience of working out. Uncomfortable shoes for example can lead to ankle and foot injuries, loosing fitting clothing might dangle in the way of a work out and thus making you uncomfortable. To enjoy this journey, good regalia will matter all the way.
- Get to the gym in good time
Duration of exercise is vital if results are to be guaranteed. Allow yourself enough time to warm up, get into the days exercise routine and then cool down. If however you are time constrained, discuss this with your trainer so that he adapts the work out to be as equally effective during the short duration that you have. Don’t overdo the work out as this can predispose you to injuries.
- Listen to instructions
Your trainers are there to help you work with the exercise equipment available. If you are just new to the gym, listen to them as they tell you the best techniques to perform a particular exercise. This will help you target specific goals and avoid unnecessary injuries in the gym.
- Stretch
After a good workout, a stretch session will be important to loose the muscles and prevent spasms. This can be very notorious with the back. Ensure you stretch adequately after the work out session.
- Responsible use of gym equipment
Once you are done with the equipment, don’t leave them hanging around everywhere. Rack them appropriately and clean or disinfect. This move takes care of the person who is coming in next after you. Equipment in their inappropriate place may also lead to unnecessary injuries.
