Your body’s different from my body…and your neighbor’s body is different from both of our bodies, yet we all do things to stay fit and healthy. I can say that with extreme confidence because I know you wouldn’t be reading this if you didn’t.
One of us might never have a problem toning up, getting muscular, stronger and more fit, while the rest of us might experience some changes, or completely see no difference at all.
Sure you could say that genetics plays a pivotal role, but that’s only half of it. The other half comes from recognizing that the exercise program you are currently on might need a change or two…or three…or four…
People who are serious about making great strides in their development, recognize that doing the same thing over and over expecting to see something different, just won’t happen. Change is inevitable for everyone. But knowing when to change a routine separates the novice from the more experienced exerciser.
Another factor that weighs heavily is injuries. If you are beginning to make great strides; finally starting to see the results you are after and you get injured…well, it’s time to take a step back. That’s your body’s warning to you that you pushed it too far and it’s time to bring it down a notch.
If you experience an injury, it’s time to leave that muscle alone until you have your doctor examine it. You might feel guilty about not getting back into the gym immediately, but that could make the problem worse not better.
If you exercise regularly with good results, continue with what has been working for you in the past. The problem arises when a new fad or gadget promoting the latest and greatest just happens to pop in front of your eyes. It could come from a magazine ad showing stick thin 20 something’s doing “circus-like” tricks pretending to be new exercises. Or it could be from a late night commercial telling you how to get “rock-hard-abs.”
Just remember that most of that is fluff and should be avoided at all costs. It might be tempting to try it out. But if you don’t have any idea what it’s supposed to do for you and why you need to do it, then it’s best not to even attempt it.
The best way to actually see results is to vary your workout routines. Think about changing the amount of weight and number of reps for the next five to six weeks. This will work your muscles in a different fashion and help your body change. If you’re unsure how – find a personal trainer and tell them what you are doing now and ask what they think you might do to change that for the future.
Over exercising is another problem. You know those people. They are the ones who are in there every day that they look like they live there. The process of resting your body’s muscles isn’t something that should be overlooked. It’s actually necessary.
Weight training breaks down the muscle tissue before it can rebuild it. Without proper rest in between workouts will damage muscles and prevent the body to recuperate. A good rule of thumb is to allow your muscles to rest for at least 48 hours in between workouts. You’ll come back feeling much stronger every time.
If you just can’t seem to stay away from the gym, try varying certain body part exercises. If you are working the front of your body today, work the back tomorrow. If you are doing pushing exercises, try pulling exercises the next day. If you are challenging your legs very hard, try working your upper body in the following session.
Cardiovascular training is of equal importance when striving for a fit, lean and healthy frame. Most hard-core body builder types look the other way when a treadmill becomes available. But they are only stifling their progress.
Regular periods of cardio will help burn fat and make your muscle more visible. Just don’t overdo it and neglect the weights entirely.
Remember that change can be a good thing. Take one step at a time, work hard, be smart and nothing will stop you from reaching your goals.
© 2009 BCFitness, Inc. All Rights Reserved
GET NOTIFIED
About the latest
Fit Over 40 News
FREE!
If you don’t want to miss out on the
most up-to-date source for
Health and Fitness information…
Let me know by leaving a comment.
