When it comes to getting in shape, sometimes the hardest part is simply getting started. You can put yourself in the position to see success if you are dedicated to creating a solid gym routine to get you going. Here are six tips to help you to create a steady gym routine.
Look at Your Schedule
The first step in creating a good gym routine is to determine your schedule. Start with looking at your work and personal schedules and figuring out when you will be able to fit in consistent workouts. It is important to be realistic with this assessment.
If you only have a few days per week to work out, you will want to make sure to hit it hard each time. However, if you plan to exercise four or more times per week, you will want to break up your routine so that you do not overtrain and get injured. It is also vital to schedule at least one complete rest day each week to allow your body time to recover and rebuild.
Choose Your Space
Another top consideration to make when designing your gym routine is where you are going to exercise. When choosing a gym, be sure to select a location that is convenient to you. You will be more tempted to skip the workout session if the location is too out of the way.
Other amenities to consider include the breadth of exercise classes, childcare facilities if you have children, and other conveniences that will motivate you to use the facility regularly. For example, if you are motivated by a caffeine jolt in the morning after your workout, you may be more likely to head to the gym before work if the facility provides free coffee for patrons.
Recruit a Workout Buddy
It is always more fun to work out with a buddy. Recruiting a friend to join you in your fitness ventures will increase the odds that you stick with it. A workout buddy keeps you accountable and less likely to bail at the last minute. You will not want to let your partner down by missing a workout just because you feel tired.
Many people also find that they are more adventurous with their workout routine if they have a partner to explore new activities with at the gym. If you cannot find a suitable partner in your own social circle, try looking for one with a fitness app.
Do Not Neglect the Recovery
Many fitness enthusiasts do a great job fueling up before a workout, however, they neglect to nourish their body with the right food and drink after a hard sweat season. What you do in the hours immediately following your workout will have a direct impact on your overall success.
For example, a recovery supplement from Outwork Nutrition will help you to recover more quickly so that you can get back out there again. This accelerated recovery time will make it easier for you to build more muscle and reach all of your fitness goals.
Mix Things Up
You are less likely to get bored with your routine if you are purposeful about mixing things up. For instance, if you typically work out inside a gym, try taking it outside at least once per week for a run or a bike ride.
Conversely, if you generally enjoy long walks outside for your exercise routine, consider trying a new workout class or strength training routine. You will be less likely to get injured if you are continually working on different body parts.
Track Your Progress
Tracking your progress will help you to stay motivated as you strive to reach all of your fitness goals. There are a variety of handy smartphone apps that make it easier than ever to keep track of your progression. You can also lean on the old-fashioned method of simply writing everything down on paper.
However, along with tracking your progress, you also need to give your grace for the occasional slip-ups. Not everyone is going to be perfect all of the time. If you fall off the exercise bandwagon, do not use it as an excuse to quit completely, Instead, get yourself back up and start moving again.
Bottom Line
These six tips will provide the foundation that you need to get the most out of your gym routine.
