Expecting quick exercise results is something that everyone has done from time to time. Yet, it is difficult to sometimes keep a commitment to exercising if you fail to look at it realistically. There are seven common mistakes that many people make when creating exercise plans. Avoiding simple mistakes like these and your exercise will become less like work and more like fun.
1. Skipping the warm-up
You should take a few minutes to gently walk, cycle or whatever you choose to prepare the body for heavier activity. Breaking a light sweat will get your blood pumping, warm up muscles and greatly reduce your risk of injury. Overall, you will increase the effectiveness of your workout.
2. Skipping the cool-down
Due to time constraints, many people head straight to the showers after . Instead, take a few minutes to lower your heart rate close to its resting rate. This will reduce your risk of injury and give you a few minutes to incorporate some relaxation into your routine. Relaxing after the workout will ensure exercise is good for the mind and soul, as well as the body.
3. Not eating correctly
Eating balanced meals is a still an excellent way to keep healthy while you exercise. There is no need to starve yourself before or after your workout to help you get fit. Food will keep you energized throughout your workout. Just take care not to over eat.
4. Not drinking enough water
Only camels can go without water, and even they cannot do it indefinitely! Don't wait until you feel thirsty because you are already dehydrated at that point. Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after your workout. If you don't like the "taste" of water consider getting flavored water or buying individual packets of flavoring to make your own.
5. Over-resting
Make sure to spread workouts out, but not so much that you end up not exercising for a week between workouts. You must be consistent with your workouts, and you must be consistent within your workout. While working out, make sure to keep your heart pumping by taking short breaks during your workout instead of long ones.
6. Over-exercising
Fitting a week's worth of exercise into one afternoon is only going to overwork you and increase your risk for injury. Forty-five minutes of moderate exercise spread out over the week is better than an intense power workout once a week.
7. Doing too much, too fast
If you have not been running three miles a day twice a week before, then you can't expect to be able to accomplish this so quickly. Allow your body to adjust to the new things you are having it do. Taking small steps will still get you to where you need to go and without risk of injury. It is the same with exercise, start off with smaller weights or shorter distances. This is better than pushing yourself to the breaking point.
With all of that said you can start applying these steps and create a healthier and happier outlook for your exercise program. Remember to stay safe, and take care of your mind and soul, along with your body.
