With the hardest part over—getting started—the best is yet to come. But, for many first timers at the gym, the busy scene can be quite frightening. Unsure of what to do, you may walk on the treadmill, or attempt to pump some iron. You're likely to spot someone who appears as if they know what they are doing, and your gut may tell you to do what they do. Copying your neighbor may seem like enough to learn the swing of the ropes, but unfortunately it isn't.
In fact, a mentality like that can get you injured, and cause you to overwork certain parts of your body. You could even be doing everything wrong, even if it feels right! To unveil the most common workout mistakes beginners make in the gym, we reached out to three fitness experts. The first steps in remedying these bad habits, or not picking them up at all, is knowing what they are. And that's why we're pointing them out.
And as you read this list, don't sweat it. You're not alone, and we're here to help. Banish these 10 common workout mistakes, and your journey to reach your weight loss goal will be a whole lot easier. And to make your goal even easier still, check out our list with 44 Ways to Lose 4 Inches of Body Fat.
You're Over Enthusiastic
The rookie mistake when you get your first paycheck? Spend it all. The same goes the first time you hit the gym, as well. You put all of your energy into one session. Boom! Bring on the exhaustion. Which then, may provide you with reasons to create to excuses the next time you should be working out. It can also lead to injury. Dr. Derek Ochiai, a board certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine expert, explains: "Deciding to push yourself hard and fast from the getgo increases the chances of overuse tendonitis, which can be a reason or excuse to stop going to the gym." Instead, don't be afraid to ease into your new activity. In fact, there are plenty of simple ways to boost your weight-loss goals, and most of them don't even involve the gym! Check out these 31 Sneaky Ways To Work Out—Without Hitting The Gym.
You Compete Against the Wrong Person
The gym can quickly become a self-confidence-destroying zone. Becoming your fittest self takes time and everyone has their own set of limits when it comes to the ways and speed at which their bodies can grow in strength. "Instead of trying to match weights or pace with the person next to you, try to compete against yourself, and incrementally increase [your personal best,]" says Dr. Ochiai. You can be your biggest competition and your best supporter, too!
You Try To Cram A Workout In
Slow and steady wins the race — always. Just like with dieting, the best results are the ones you achieve over time. Dr. Ochiai explains that rushing a workout is never a bright idea: "Everyone is busy, but don't try to cram in extra weight or intensity if you're pressed for time." Instead, he recommends that you take it easy. Build in a warm up time, such as on a bike, before starting the rest of your work out," he says. One suggestion: Pencil in the amount of time you'll need each day to achieve those body shaping goals. By giving yourself permission in this way, you'll be more satisfied with your workout at the end of each period — and you'll be more likely to actually complete your goals. Chances are if you feel the time is crammed you'll give yourself more reasons to not work out at all.
You Don't Drink Enough Water
Drinking water can get tedious, but that's where detox water changes the fitness game. When it comes to getting fit, hydration is key. Not only does consuming the recommended water intake (64 ounces) a day boost your chances of achieving your weight-loss goals, but it helps make your day-to-day activity at the gym so much easier. Water helps to both boost your energy levels and helps your muscles stay pliable. H2O acts as a lubricant for your muscles and joints, and being hydrated helps to prevent feelings of stiffness and increases your body's strength and flexibility.
You Challenge Yourself Too Much
If you think you'll be able to complete the same spin or barre workout as your friend who's been going since 2012, think again. Instead, celebrity trainer Michael Blauner suggests that you start with something that's a bit easier. "You want to feel like you're working but you don't want to be incapacitated the next day! (I've heard many people say that they pushed or were pushed too hard the first time and they never went back to it)," he says. Don't fall into that trap. It's okay to walk in the middle of your jog, and it's okay to take a breather. In fact, it's better for you, because you'll be more likely to be pleased with yourself if you chose to slow down and were able complete the workout rather than feeling like you couldn't do it at all. Result: You'll go back and do it again.
No comments:
Post a Comment