Do you ever feel like you’re just going through the motions with your workouts? It can be easy to get into a bit of a workout rut, especially at the gym when using the same machines can get a little repetitive. I do love routine, but exercise is one area of life where routine, in terms of what you do, might not always be the best idea. Here’s a few tips for getting the most out of your workouts and getting out of a workout rut!
Get some expert advice
I recently had a quick session with a Personal Trainer. She gave me a brand new routine to do at the gym, which really motivated me and helped me to start feeling like my workouts where challenging again!
Try a Heart Rate Monitor
I love my HRM! I’m not currently using it being pregnant, but it is an excellent way to see how hard, or maybe how not so hard, you are working. Seeing how many calories you are burning can also be really motivational.
Check your form
Gym mirrors are the key to checking your form when performing strength training exercises. It’s easy to get into bad habits with strength training and not examining your positioning. Reminding yourself to look at your form in the mirror and make adjustments, or seeking the support of a friend or Personal Trainer will help you get the most out of those exercises, and protect your body too!
Change it up
As I said, sticking to the same exercises and routine is not always that effective. Changing up what you do, whether thats the form of exercise, intensity or duration will keep your body guessing, and therefore working harder.
Make yourself a new playlist
I find music super motivating, a track with a good beat can make me work so much harder in my workouts! Try changing your playlist every couple of weeks to keep yourself working harder.
What tips do you have? How do you get the most out of your workout?
*post in collaboration with Gym – Mirrors
Apart from running, which I just love, I find that I prefer working out in a group as otherwise I get a bit disheartened- for example with body pump in the class I keep going to the end, but I know if I was to do that on my own I would only last about 30 seconds!
That is definitely one of the best things about classes!
Like Maria, I do best in group workout classes, I really feel the benefits and like the fact that the instructor sorts it all out for you! I do need to start planning my solo sessions, otherwise I just fanny about on the cross trainer for half an hour! Need to brave the free weights more. Do you have any inspiration for good basic free weights workouts?
I agree on the classes, they are good for not having to think too much! I would try New Rules of Lifting for Women or anything from Rachel Cosgrove for free weights :-)
I always feel vain checking myself out in the mirrors at gym but it is the best way to ensure correct form; and good form is essential especially with weights because you can do yourself an injury.
Haha, I had an argument with a friend about that cause she thought people were being posers! I had to remind her that’s what I did to check my form.
I definitely think it’s a good thing to change up your routine every now and then, I’m looking forward to getting back into more strength training once I’m fully recovered from injury.
great tips!!
we are always trying to encourage our clients to push hard, have fun, and mix it up with their workouts ;)
Unlike some of the commenters, I much prefer to work out alone. I know it’s actually many people’s preference to work out in couples or groups, but that never worked for me. Whether it’s about running, rollerblading or working out at the gym, during physical activity I tend to completely focus solely on that, so to the other person I seem somewhat zoned out, or even anti social.
Awesome list anyway, thanks for sharing :)