Make every rep count!
So you have a workout you love and you’re working towards your dream body. You’ve already taken all the difficult steps! Nevertheless, these small tweaks can help you burn more fat during your workouts. They’ll help you get the most out of the gym so that you can truly make every rep count!
1. Start with a 5-10 minute walk at an incline.
Warm ups are important, and starting with a short brisk walk can make a big difference in your workout. First, the walk will raise your heart rate, increasing the number of calories you burn. Second, it will help lubricate your joints so that you’re ready to take on the rest of your workout. Finally, a short walk helps energize you and pump you up, so you can tackle your workout with your motors all revved!
You can also check out other warm ups we recommend.
2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
Even if you have access to a water fountain, it’s better to carry around your own bottle. You drink more water when you drink directly from a bottle. And when it comes to hydration, every drop counts! Your body often confuses thirst for hunger, so staying hydrated can even help you reduce cravings after the gym.
We have a recipe for a sport drink replacement that’s great for fueling up.
3. Wear the right shoes.
The right shoes make a big difference, especially if you’re a runner. A good running shoe provides cushion for your soles, support for your ankle, and traction so that you’re less likely to slip and fall. If you run with bad shoes, you might overcompensate and put unnecessary strain on your joints and muscles, this could tire you out or even lead to injury. To get the most out of your runs, make sure you’re wearing appropriate shoes.
4. Cool down with some yoga stretches.
Stretching post-workout is key to keeping you body healthy and working at its best. When you skip stretching, your muscles get tight and contracted. This reduces your range of motions, decreases your flexibility, and can put strain on other muscles and joints. In the long term, this can lead to dangerous injuries.
Some of the best stretches you can do after a workout are yoga poses. Make sure to spend a few minutes on every muscle you worked out.
5. Have a playlist you love.
It’s surprising how music can have such a big impact on our mood. If you’re listening to a song that pumps you up, you’ll naturally work harder, running faster and lifting heavier with seeming no effort at all. Instead of skipping through half of an old playlist, spend a few minutes every week adding songs you love and eliminating the ones you’re no longer into.
Check out some of the playlists we’ve put together.
For more scrumptious recipes and healthy lifestyle tips, like us on Facebook, follow us on Pinterest, and subscribe to our newsletter.
We need your feedback! Let us know what you thought about this article or anything else on the site.