- Switch to supersets for super gains. I am convinced that as more time one spends in the gym, the more the intensity of their workout goes down. One way to maximize your time and get better results is by using supersets. To do a superset, pick a muscle group (we’ll use chest as an example) and then do three (or more) different exercises for that muscle group, back to back, without resting. For example, do a set of bench presses, following by a dumbbell chest fly and finish with a round of pushups. In a matter of minutes, you’ve blasted your chest and are ready to move on to your next muscle group. Supersets will not just cut your workout time in half, but they’re guaranteed to keep intensity levels high for maximum results!
- Turn up the tunes.Music does more than motivate. Research shows it can improve your workout, too. One such study from the Journal of Undergraduate Kinesiology Research investigated whether music had any measurable effect on the strength-training performance of 17 physically fit men and women. The verdict? Music improved performance dramatically among study participants! So bring along your iPod or MP3 player and crank it up! Download some tunes that get your blood pumping and your spirits high. This is also a good way to get motivated for your workout!
- Never neglect good nutrition. It’s easy to just focus on your workout when you’re trying to burn calories, build muscle and reshape your body. But working out is one part of the equation; what you eat (and drink) before and after your exercise session is also important. Before your workout, make sure you’re well hydrated. Nearly every study available conclusively shows that exercising when dehydrated will impair your performance. Before your workout have a small snack. After you finish, make sure to take refuel your muscles (to prepare them for future workouts) by eating the right amount of food within 30-90 minutes. Studies also show that the right post-workout meal (or snack) will replenish your glycogen stores more quickly and shorten recovery time—two factors that can help you achieve optimum results.[/su_note]
Try these tips and you’ll get the most from your workouts every time. Remember, it isn’t just about exercising harder or longer, it’s about exercising smarter to change your body for the better!
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