You've made the decision to get in shape and join a gym, congratulations! Gyms are a wonderful resource for those looking to improve their health, boost their self-esteem, lose weight and make healthier lifestyle changes. If you're new to working out, you might feel a little hesitant on where to begin. Starting with an easy balance of cardio and weights as well as some healthy habits, you'll know your way around the gym in no time. Here are three things to keep in mind before you hit the gym.
Pump it Up
Cardio is an excellent way to stay heart-healthy and give your body a comprehensive workout. If your knees are not that big a fan of treadmills, try an elliptical. Designed to create a smooth flow of motion that mimics a stride, this machine will mimic the feeling of walking through sand. This is an excellent workout for all parts of your leg and can even focus on certain muscles that need extra attention. For a bit of a challenge, increase the incline to target different areas of your legs or simply try a backward stride. Ellipticals provide a great workout for your arms as well, allowing you to get a full-body workout with the convenience of using a single device.
Hit the Weights
While maintaining a regular cardio workout routine is important, go a step further and try weights. While you might immediately associate lifting weights with oversized barbells, the truth is that weights come in a variety of forms and are very easy to get started with! Lightweight dumbbells added to your typical cardio routine, for example, are a fantastic way to easily incorporate weights into your workout. When you feel ready, you can move on to weight machines which offer settings to help target certain problem areas. If you struggle with legs that you'd like to see more toned, for example, a leg press is a great place to start. If you're more focused on your arms, on the other hand, a chest press machine would be the more acceptable choice.
Why What You Eat Matters
Believe it or not, food actually has a crucial place in your workout routine! Before hitting the gym, you'll want to make sure you've eaten and have the necessary fuel to burn, especially if you're planning a more intense workout. Think of your pre-workout meal as more of a fuel-stored snack that can include a wholesome mix of protein and carbs. Granola bars, yogurt with fruit or cheese and crackers are all excellent examples of a light snack you can have beforehand. Try to stick with a good mix of protein and carbs for a post-workout as well, allowing you to not only satiate your hunger but also help your body recover from the workout.