I believe we should all strive to get the most out of our workouts. If your workouts feel boring, aren’t stimulating you enough, or leave you feeling like you just didn’t break through that wall you keep hitting – you need to utilize some tactics that can really help you get to the next level.
Here are 10 quick tips you can use:
Train in a Motivating Environment:
If you’re not looking forward to going to the gym, then you definitely need to find a new one. Try to find a place that gets you excited to exercise just by walking through the front door. It might just be a garage with a large poster of your fitness icon or a local park. I use the stairs by my pool because I get motivated to move when others are relaxing.
Training with an Inspiring Friend or Workout Gear: Feeding off the energy of a great partner can really elevate your intensity, focus, and effectiveness to another level. I also enjoying wearing fitness gear that is fun and comfortable. My brother designed these Hulk pants that I love!
Start with the Hard Stuff: Work your bigger muscle groups and harder exercises earlier in your session when you are fresh.
Use Drop Sets: Drop the weight down 3x in one long set to really hit it hard. Anything that adds movement and range of motion will increase effectiveness.
Hydrate: Stay hydrated before, during, and after workouts to keep your body functioning perfectly. It would be a shame to make the effort to workout without preparing your body to do so.
Caffeinate: If you’re having a particularly sluggish day, have some caffeine before training for that extra push. Just don’t become reliant on it. It’s a tool, not a crutch.
Listen to the Right Music: If you don’t train with a partner, locking yourself into your headphones with music can be just as effective. I actually prefer to train by myself with my music most of the time, unless I’m going really heavy and need that partner. My music tastes range from Eminem and Metallica to Mozart and other classical pieces – depending on the type of workout and focus I’m going for.
Rest: Get quality rest at night for maximum recovery. Preferably 7-8 hours of sleep per night for full recovery. If you normally don’t get enough rest, you’ll definitely notice a difference in your body’s performance level.
Warm-up: Utilize at least 5-15 minutes of solid warm up work. Think about your body like the Tin Man needing his oil can, except your body needs your blood moving and muscles heated. You should also use the time to set your mind right by letting the outside world go and shifting your focus to the training in front of you.
