Small changes can yield big results when it comes to exercise

In a previous post, we discussed ways to extend your exercise routine which will help you get more results from each workout. Doing more is a fairly obvious way to increase your results from personal training (link to Personal training page), but there are other, more subtle, ways to increase the effectiveness of your workouts that you may not have thought of previously.

Try these small changes in your workout:

– Eliminate small breaks during sets. When your trainer is watching, you are probably extremely vigilant. You get through your workout faster, and you are probably a little more tired the next day! However, on your own, you may take short rests when you start to feel tired or skip the last rep or two. Pretend your trainer is watching and don’t take those breaks or shortcuts. You will work harder and your hard work will pay off!

–  Focus on each exercise and each repetition. It is easy to get lost in your thoughts or distract yourself while working out, but focusing on each repetition and the muscles used in the movements is a great way to keep your form correct. This will reduce the chance of strain or injury while improving effectiveness.

–  Stop talking during your workouts. This is like the small breaks – if you are able to talk, you are not pushing yourself hard enough. If you can talk, you can run a little faster or use heavier weights.

–  Have a goal when you start a cardiovascular workout such as running, biking, or swimming. Maybe it is to run a certain number of miles or for a certain amount of time, or it can be just keeping up with the faster person in the lane next to you in the pool. In any case, setting a goal will help you push yourself, getting stronger each time you work out.