First things first, depending on your fitness goals and circumstances, your workout routine will differ enormously. Someone trying to lose weight is going to have a different routine than someone training for a marathon, for example.
But a lot of people have one goal in common. They want to build up their strength. This might include bulking up and building muscle mass, or it might involve working on your endurance and muscle tone. Building your strength can also help you reach other goals. If you build muscle, you might find that you go down a dress size. Or it can be a great way to recover after surgery or an illness, as you help your body get back to its typical strength.
Remember: All exercise comes with a small risk of injury. If you are unsure of where to start with your training, consult with a certified fitness professional for advise on what programme is best for you.
So, here are some ways to build your strength up and reach your fitness goals.
Look After Your Body
You need a good physical foundation to work from to start with, so it pays to look after your body. For example, if you struggle with back pain, strength training can be one of the best things for you, as it will exercise the muscles in your back and shoulders, offering more stability.
However, trying to push through a lot of pain and a bad back can also make things a lot worse and lead to injury. Do what you can to treat your back pain first, then you can intensify your workouts. See a doctor about their recommendations and, if applicable, consider chiropractic care for your back.
Build Up Over Time
On a similar note, it’s much more beneficial to build up your workout intensity over time. Don’t start at your absolute limit and push yourself too hard, because this can also cause an injury. Focus on getting the exercise right first, then you can add on the weight.
It’s also beneficial to get a personal trainer or even an experienced friend to guide you through your strength workouts, at least in the beginning. This way, they can spot any issues in your technique and help you work out more effectively and safely. Besides, it’s always more fun to work out with other people.
When setting goals, whether for strength training or any fitness goal, be realistic. Don’t jump straight to a very high and hard-to-achieve goal. Instead, start small and build up to it. This will make it easier for you to track your progress and stay motivated.
Eat Right
As well as a great strength routine, it’s helpful to eat the right foods. Muscle-building foods typically include a high level of protein and low fats. Of course, you should have a balanced diet that provides the nutrients you need for everyday life, but protein is your friend here.
Most protein-rich foods include meat and other animal products, but you can find some vegetarian and vegan options as well. Also, you can supplement your diet with protein powders to help you get all the nutrients you need everyday, without having to worry about cooking a limited range of foods.
Comments are closed.