You stop eating around an hour (or more) before you head to the gym, you shower, get dressed, probably drive all the way there, and you might, unfortunately, end up not getting the best of your workout. Working out isn't an easy thing to do and getting more fit and stronger is most certainly harder. Hey, I'm not a certified trainer though! Yet, I managed to figure out that there are things most of us do, that lower the intensity of the workouts unconsciously. In order to get fruitful results, here are 7 tips to get the most out of your workout...
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How to get maximum results from a workout:
1. Stay focused!
I know it's always nice to go out and make gym buddies, but honestly, if you're hitting the gym for the sake of socializing, then you should rethink it. Lots of socializing during the workout itself will distract you and will hinder your body from achieving its maximum intensity. Let your inner social butterfly shine only after you get your exercise done.
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2. Give food time to digest
Most of the medical studies showed that you should eat at least 2-3 hours before your workout. In order not to end up sluggish, make sure to have your last meal at least one hour before your workout so it gets completely digested.
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3. Push yourself past what you think can't do
When your brain says no, just don't listen, your body is still more capable! Sometimes you don't push yourself enough to finish the workout and you end up wasting your workout.
4. Warm up! Warm up! Warm up!
Make sure to warm up well around 30 minutes before your workout and you'll be on fire! It makes the biggest difference and it also protects you from straining your muscles or having an injury. It's very dangerous not to warm up properly.
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5. Water
Drinking lots of water during your workout is a big no-no. Most of us drink incorrect amounts of water before, during, and after a workout. When you feel lightheaded or dehydrated during your workout, take a sip of water just to maintain the fluid/saliva in your mouth. After you finish your workout, feel free to drink up to two or three cups of water.
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6. Team up
Finding a partner can be the fuel of your gym routine. When your partner is energetic, he/she will motivate you to hit the gym, spice up the gym atmosphere, encourage competition, thus you will both fire it up!
7. Remember your breathing!
Breathing properly during exercise is absolutely crucial and not just any breathing but breathing from your diaphragm, not your chest. This breathing technique helps you take in better deeper breaths that the body needs, especially for a workout. Proper breathing will not only prevent injuries but help you stay focused and be able to workout longer and more comfortably.
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