While exercising isn’t complicated, it’s very easy to
make mistakes. Often times the mistakes are made because of lack of proper technique
training or simply due to rushing to get the workout completed. Regardless of the reason
for the mistakes, they can lead to injuries or at the very least be counter-productive to
your fitness goals. Of course it’s important to know specifically what to do to be
successful at meeting your health and fitness goals but it is also crucial to understand
what not to do. So take note of the following common mistakes and how to avoid them. These
tips will help ensure your workout time is effective and help prevent injuries.
Too Much, Too Soon Many new
exercisers try to lose weight or tone up too quickly, by exercising too frequently or
trying exercise programs that are too difficult for their fitness level. Be sure to start
with an exercise plan that takes your current fitness regimen (or lack of) into account.
Pie In The Sky Goals Despite
what many advertisers would like you to believe, it’s unrealistic to think you can
lose 30 pounds in 30 days or that you can have Hollywood abs simply by doing 10 minutes of
crunches a day. It’s good to set goals but be sure they aren’t too aggressive
and realize it’s okay to periodically re-define them.
Ignoring Expert Advice
It’s always advisable to consult your physician before starting an exercise program.
Working with a fitness professional is also a good idea so you can learn proper technique,
the latest fitness information and learn how to avoid injuries.
Over-Exercising If you start
to feel overwhelmed, neglect important daily activities in order to workout or repeatedly
get injured, then it might be due to exercising too frequently. Realize the importance of
balance and that more is not always better. Consider reducing the frequency of your
workouts or the intensity of some of them and periodically resting for a few days or a
week.
Improper Breathing Sure,
breathing is an involuntary bodily function; something that most individuals tend to
ignore. But, breathing correctly during fitness sessions is very important. Incorrect
breathing can lead to lack of oxygen and even faintness. When working out ensure that you
don’t breathe too shallowly and try to breathe through the nose and out the mouth.
Selecting The Wrong Size
Choosing the proper weight size when strength training is trickier then it sounds. Lifting
weights that are too heavy for you can lead to improper form and ultimately to injuries.
Use weights that are too light and the exercise session can be ineffective. If possible
consult a fitness trainer to determine the correct amount of weight for your size,
strength and goals. A trainer can also help you develop a plan for safely progressing
forward on weight sizes.
Not Staying Hydrated Drinking
enough water on a daily basis is important. When you exercise you need to consume even
more water. You should drink 16 ounces for every hour of exercise you complete. Plus you
should try to consume 1-2 cups of water about 30 minutes before you begin working out.
Eating Too Little No,
that’s not a typo. Not eating enough can be as detrimental as eating too much. When
the body is not fed consistently, it goes into a starvation mode. Five to six smaller
meals evenly spaced throughout the day helps keep the metabolism running smoothly. Just be
sure to control portion size.
Hanging Out Instead Of Working Out
Just showing up at the gym is not going to help you get more fit. Socializing while
leaning on a weight machine won’t build muscles. It’s important to enjoy your
exercise time but make sure that the focus remains on physical activity.
Fixating On The Scale If you
think the scale doesn’t lie, consider this. Many professional athletes would be
considered obese based on their weight alone. Look at the bigger and more relevant
picture. Monitor your body fat percentage, if possible. Otherwise track measurements. Also
don’t underestimate the importance of improved physical and mental well-being. |
