“When you feel like quitting, remember why you started,” (unknown).
Are you looking to lose weight, build muscle or improve endurance? Crush your fitness goals, whatever they may be, by following these tips.
Find a Workout Program that Works for You
Whether you’re just beginning or starting over, there are an overwhelming number of workout programs available, from cardio to strength training. There are options for exercising at home or at the gym as well. Narrowing down your choices can get tricky; however, what it ultimately boils down to is personal preference. You’ll know you’ve found the right workout when, at the end of class, you’re left wondering where the time went. Giving your workout 100% of your attention is key to reaching your health and fitness goals.
Know Your Target Heart Rate
Step up your fitness game by knowing your target heart rate. This information is incredibly useful for measuring intensity and maximizing results. The American Heart Associationrecommends staying within 50-70% during moderate intensity and 70-85% during vigorous intensity activities of maximum heart rate (MHR is about 200 bpm minus your age). It is important to monitor heart rate throughout your workout. You can monitor HR with a wearable activity tracker or manually.
Consider Dietary Supplements
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), creatine, protein, multivitamins, and fish oil offer many health benefits. Equally, these and other dietary supplements may help improve athletic performance, stamina, and recovery. All supplements should add to, not replace, a well-balanced whole foods diet though. Fitness is, after all, 80 percent nutrition. You also need to ensure you are sufficiently hydrated. Before taking any new dietary supplements, it is always wise to consult with your pharmacist or doctor.
Get Enough ZZZ’s
Sufficient nightly rest is essential for ensuring optimal physical and psychological well-being. It can also help you crush your fitness goals! Yet, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than a third of U.S. adults are not logging the recommended seven or more hours of sleep per night. Sleep deprivation can, all too unfortunately, sabotage even the best-laid plans. Simply put, without adequate sleep, you won’t see results. Always aim for seven or more hours of sleep per night.
Food as Fuel
Fueling your body with the right nutrients one to two hours pre-workout will give you the energy and strength you need for endurance. Always choose real foods first. Ideally, you should also replenish lost nutrients, like carbs and proteins within 15 minutes following strenuous activity. A workout recovery smoothie made with low-fat milk and fresh fruit is a good choice. To crush your fitness goals, you should make sure you’re hydrating your body before, during, and after your workout.
Healthy Habit Health Foods is committed to selling nutritionally sound, environmentally conscious, organic products to support your healthy lifestyle. Stop by our store today and get 30% OFF on all Zhou Products! We are conveniently located on 7th St. and Bethany Home Rd (map). Our store hours are 9am to 6pm Monday through Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sundays.
