New York gyms and health clubs are full of determined individuals trying to improve their health and fitness levels. This isn’t a bad thing. But all the determination in the world does not make up for the lack of common sense that some people exhibit when they get serious about getting in shape.
One mistake that many people make when they start exercising regularly––whether it’s lifting weights, circuit training, or performing cardio––is focusing on what everyone else in the room is doing. Naturally, when you notice others at the gym lifting twice as much as you are, running twice as fast on the treadmill, or working out with a lot more intensity, it’s easy to feel a bit disheartened. The best course of action you can take, however, is to focus on yourself. Don’t try to duplicate what others are doing. It can lead to a variety of injuries, including torn muscles, tendonitis, strains and sprains, joint pain, hernias, and back spasms.
A cautious, intelligent approach should always be taken before beginning any exercise program.
Despite the media bombarding us with tons of advice on the best way to get in shape, you’ll be surprised to learn that most of the information won’t be very helpful to you. There is only one proven way to get in shape and stay that way and that’s through hard work and commitment. Not for 3 months, a year, or 2 years, but for life. Unless you rely on steroids and a dumpster full of supplements, like most of the professional bodybuilders and fitness models use to look so great on those magazine covers (remember it is their profession and they are getting paid for it), you are not likely to get that big or that cut up, sorry. But that doesn’t mean you can’t improve your strength, muscle tone, and overall health.
If you are going to take your health and fitness seriously, acceptance is a good starting point. Accept your genetic limitations and listen to what your body is telling you––not anyone else, except your doctor. Losing weight and getting the six-pack abs you’ve always wanted takes a great deal of time and effort. There are no short cuts, just gimmicks.
Before entering the gym or starting a fitness routine, especially if you are no longer in your teens and 20s, there is a short list of things you should do. It’s not rocket science.
Your first goal should be to get your diet under control . Make sure you are also getting enough sleep at night. Without a proper diet, eating healthy foods, and getting a sufficient amount of rest, you’ll be exercising your way head-on into a brick wall.
Seek the advice of your doctor and a nutritionist (one tip some fitness magazines will never offer because it’ll put them out of business, along with all their advertisers). Let them know what your goals are and what you’d like to accomplish, whether it be shedding pounds, getting stronger, or just maintaining good cardiovascular health.
Your next step, if you can afford it, is to hire a fitness instructor. Not necessarily a person you’ll rely on for years, but maybe for a few months; someone knowledgeable who can give you a basic understanding of muscle groups, exercises and routines, proper form, and basic gym etiquette. If you can't afford an instructor, try to research as much as possible about different types of exercise routines and how to safely complete each exercise movement. Practice new exercises with light weights until you get them right.
Don’t underestimate the importance of stretching, warming up, and performing light weight reps before you begin exercising. These actions will help ensure that you avoid injuring yourself. Take your time and listen to your body. And most importantly, do what works best for you.
Exercising is all about trial and error. Results may come in waves.Sometimes our bodies refuse to respond if we constantly put it through the same boring motions. Keep your workout routines fresh, try new exercises every few weeks (don’t exclude core and cardio routines), and have fun. Your goal should be long-term.
These few tips will help keep your workouts enjoyable, injury-free, and provide you with an excellent foundation for future success at the gym.
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