Starting your fitness journey is more than just committing to going to the gym a few times a week. It’s also about the things you do outside of your exercise time that can help turn all of your exercise efforts into an exciting experience that gives you visible results. So, let’s take a look at some of the ways you can elevate your fitness journey beyond the gym.
1. Create A Killer Playlist
Exercising can turn dull pretty quickly without music – or with the wrong music. Instead of relying on the music played at the gym, spend some time creating a workout playlist that’s going to motivate you to push yourself harder each time you go.
There are lots of pre-made workout playlists on Spotify if you need some inspiration but remember that what works for other people may not work for you. Let music help power you through those moments where you feel like you might give up.
2. Pack In The Nutrients
Getting plenty of nutrients is so important when it comes to exercising. As you sweat, you lose a lot of nutrients, so making sure you’re packing them in before and after is very important. You can do this through meal replacement shakes or making sure the foods you’re eating are rich in vitamins and nutrients.
Not only will this elevate your exercise efforts but you’ll feel more energised, have clearer skin and feel better over all. The best way to get some great nutrients into your body is through the eating of lots of plant based foods. These will pump your body with vitamins, minerals, fibre, protein and a host of antioxidants and phytochemicals – all great for exercise recovery too.
Why are plant based foods better?
Eating a highly plant based diet is optimal when in any kind of training or exercise program because plant foods are highly anti inflammatory whereas animal foods such as meat, dairy and eggs are highly acid forming.
Anti inflammatory, plant foods will have the following benefits:-
- Faster exercise recovery
- Higher fitness levels
- More endurance
- Strong bones
- Easier to lose weight
- Fat burning benefits
- Fuller for longer
3. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated before, during and after a workout is so essential. Not only could you become unwell if you are severely dehydrated, but you’re not going to be maximising your efforts at the gym either. Water is an unsung hero when it comes to the human body – so make sure you’re getting plenty of it.
You could also try sports drinks before and after working out to quickly replace any electrolytes you lose during your workout. Make your own sports drinks easily at home rather than buying expensive, shop bought versions that are usually laden with preservatives, artificial colours and other chemicals to make them a bright and appealing colour.
Make your homemade energy drinks with half and half orange juice to water with a tiny pinch of salt. Or just use plain coconut water which is naturally high in electrolytes without needing anything else added.
4. Coffee And Cardio
If you’re like most people, your day doesn’t begin until you’ve had your first cup of coffee. Did you know that coffee can be more than just a part of your morning ritual? The caffeine boost from coffee can turn your workout into a high-energy experience.
So, before you go to the gym, have a cup of coffee and see for yourself how energised you are. Caffeine not only makes you more alert, but it also boosts your metabolism! Let yourself go with some caffeine fueled energy the next time you’re heading off for a workout.
5. Mix It Up
If you’re doing the same exercise routine day in and day out, it can quickly become monotonous. Try out different workout styles, whether it’s a HIIT session, a nice relaxing yoga class, a dance workout, or even a brisk run on a winter morning is completely up to you.
You’ll find the change of pace refreshing when you change things up, and you won’t become bored and not workout at all. Having a variety of different workout methods also helps challenge all of your muscles, meaning you’ll be getting fit all over.
The trick with exercise and keeping it up for the long term is to always find something you ENJOY doing first and foremost. if you don’t enjoy your exercise then it is highly unlikely you’ll keep it up long term or much past your new year’s resolution. There are so many forms of enjoyable exercises, many of them outdoors in beautiful scenery.
Try some of the following and see how you get on:-
- Cycling
- Power walking
- Country walking
- Coastal trails
- Beech walks and runs
- Running in the local park
- Roller blading on the promenade
6. Great Workout Gear
Sometimes what you’re wearing can make a difference to how effectively you workout. If you’re wearing baggy joggers and a t-shirt, you’re going to feel frumpy. However, if you feel good in the gear you’re wearing, you’re going to go into your workout with a more positive mindset.
While baggy clothes are absolutely fine to workout in, they’re not going to maximise your workout. Whether it’s moisture-wicking leggings, a decent sports bra, or reliable trainers, the right workout gear will make you more comfortable and serve the purpose it was designed to do – make you sweat!
7. Gym buddies
Exercise doesn’t mean you have to go it alone – it can be a team effort. It could be a family member, a friend, or even your dog. Having someone by your side adds an extra layer of motivation. You’re not just doing it for yourself anymore, you’re going on a fitness journey together and you’re supporting each other every step of the way.
Shared laughter and friendly competition never did anybody any harm, and you’ll be turning your workouts into memorable experiences. In turn, this will make you look forward to working out and breaking a sweat.
8. Rest Up
Finally, rest might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re thinking of boosting your workouts.
However, it’s not a sign of weakness and should be a part of everyone’s fitness regime. Your body needs the time to recover from the strain you’ve been putting it through, especially after a really intense workout. Take that rest time and allow your body to rejuvenate so you can go back stronger than ever.
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