We all get so revved up when we begin a exercise program. Exercise is one of those things that has to be done on a regular basis without being overdone. This is a major reason that it is recommended that you utilize a exercise journal so that you can be sure that you are not over-exercising any one muscle.
This is also why it is recommended that you do not exercise every single day, so that you force your body to rest for some time. There are some health concerns associated with over-exercise that you need to know about. Although, it is not that common, it is possible.
Exercise is a stressor that causes catabolic effect when proteins are consumed in order to give us energy. When we exercise, we are in effect causing many micro tears within our muscle. When we fail do not give our muscles time to rest, we run the risk of not allowing our muscles to recover.
In some instances of extreme over exercise as found with the military, it has been shown that there can be some performance loss and cause damage to the muscle. It is also possible to over train to the point where the muscle simply can not recover.
In some women that over exercise, it has also been shown to stop menstrual flow. In younger adolescents it has also been shown to stunt growth.
The chances that you will over-exercise are small, but just be sure to take the necessary precautions to ensure that you are giving each body part the proper amount of rest. You should also limit to less than 2 hours for any single work out.
Showing posts with label work out. Show all posts
Showing posts with label work out. Show all posts
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Supersets-All In One Workout
Some of us have a limited time schedule of when we are able to exercise. We want the benefit of lifting weights, but we also know that that we need cardiovascular exercise. May I suggest using super sets during your weight lifting work out.
It is really just a matter of picking two or three exercises of the same body part with minimal rest in between each set. If you are doing two body parts, you can pick two exercises of each body part that are contrasting. For example, if you are doing arms, biceps and triceps or back and chest. Your super set can be two bicep and one tricep exercise.
Each time you complete each of the three exercises it is considered one super set. Do as many as you can within your capabilities. Then from that point you can increase your number of super sets.
From that point you can incorporate other exercises, into your routine. As you become more advanced you will want to add another set of super set exercises for biceps and triceps. If that is too difficult, you can add other sets of a single exercise.
I promise that if you continue to do these types of work outs, then you will not have to do a separate cardiovascular workout. Your heart rate will be elevated and you will have done both work outs at the same time.
It is really just a matter of picking two or three exercises of the same body part with minimal rest in between each set. If you are doing two body parts, you can pick two exercises of each body part that are contrasting. For example, if you are doing arms, biceps and triceps or back and chest. Your super set can be two bicep and one tricep exercise.
Each time you complete each of the three exercises it is considered one super set. Do as many as you can within your capabilities. Then from that point you can increase your number of super sets.
From that point you can incorporate other exercises, into your routine. As you become more advanced you will want to add another set of super set exercises for biceps and triceps. If that is too difficult, you can add other sets of a single exercise.
I promise that if you continue to do these types of work outs, then you will not have to do a separate cardiovascular workout. Your heart rate will be elevated and you will have done both work outs at the same time.
Friday, June 26, 2009
You Are Stronger Than You Think
You are so much stronger than you think you are, so give yourself credit. Do not sell yourself short. It may be an extra set, five pounds, or a couple of extra minutes. Whatever it is, you have to constantly push yourself.
You know what your limit is, so go for it. This does not mean that you have to go for it each and every time that you work out. Of course, there will be some days when you have a better workout than others. However, those last extra that you sometimes force yourself to do will mean more than all of the sets and/or minutes from when you just started.
When you do this, you will not plateau as fast if at all. Do not do anything that will hurt yourself, but just sticking to the same thing over time is not a good idea.
Many people that are experienced in exercise do what is known as "burn out sets." That is that they go to the point of failure. It must be done with care and in moderation, but they are done quite often.
Don't be afraid to go the extra mile in your workout.
You know what your limit is, so go for it. This does not mean that you have to go for it each and every time that you work out. Of course, there will be some days when you have a better workout than others. However, those last extra that you sometimes force yourself to do will mean more than all of the sets and/or minutes from when you just started.
When you do this, you will not plateau as fast if at all. Do not do anything that will hurt yourself, but just sticking to the same thing over time is not a good idea.
Many people that are experienced in exercise do what is known as "burn out sets." That is that they go to the point of failure. It must be done with care and in moderation, but they are done quite often.
Don't be afraid to go the extra mile in your workout.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
How Do You Know When You Are Doing Enough
Knowing when you have done enough during a work out is something that is different for each individual but also different for each work out. Here are some basic guidelines that you will have to determine each time. Then you will have to make the necessary adjustments sometimes in the middle of a session.
1.) Check your form. This the main way that I tell if I need to change my workout. If you normally have good form and you find that you are breaking form during a exercise.
2.) Your breathing is labored and you can't catch your breathe. This is hard to determine, because as you come more advanced you will want to push yourself harder. However, if you are just starting and not accostumed to working out, make sure you can at least talk. This does not mean a afternoon conversation yapping away non stop on the phone, but talk.
3.) You can't quench your thirst. When you sweat, you lose hydration and become thirsty. After a couple of sips you should be fine. If not, take time to re hydrate yourself before you contine.
4.) Your arms or legs are literally shaking. This is a good feeling for some that are experienced, but if not then consider slowing down or decreasing weight.
When and if you experience these symptoms, you should consider slowing down or stopping for the day and continuing later. Be patient, it takes time.
1.) Check your form. This the main way that I tell if I need to change my workout. If you normally have good form and you find that you are breaking form during a exercise.
2.) Your breathing is labored and you can't catch your breathe. This is hard to determine, because as you come more advanced you will want to push yourself harder. However, if you are just starting and not accostumed to working out, make sure you can at least talk. This does not mean a afternoon conversation yapping away non stop on the phone, but talk.
3.) You can't quench your thirst. When you sweat, you lose hydration and become thirsty. After a couple of sips you should be fine. If not, take time to re hydrate yourself before you contine.
4.) Your arms or legs are literally shaking. This is a good feeling for some that are experienced, but if not then consider slowing down or decreasing weight.
When and if you experience these symptoms, you should consider slowing down or stopping for the day and continuing later. Be patient, it takes time.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Frequently Asked Questions About Exercising
Question:Is it better to eat before or after I WORK OUT?
Answer:Ideally you should eat something small and healthy 20-30 minutes prior and 20-30 minutes after your WORK OUT. I would recommend something with protein or a piece of fruit. Your muscles use protein for development. You don't want to be on a full stomach or on an empty stomach. You should feel just right.
Question: What do I have to do to prevent being bulky?
Answer: The main trick is to lift light to medium weight and do as many repetitions as possible on each set. Every three or four WORK OUTS, you do want to lift a little heavier and then go back down to your normal routine.
Question: What should I do if I just want to lose the fat, I could care less about the muscle?
Answer:Cardio and more cardio. However, you do want to do some weight training to prevent sagging skin after you have lost the weight. I am sure you have seen the pictures of people with sagging skin, not pretty.
Question:Do I do a full body WORK OUT?
Answer: It depends, if you are doing exercises such as swimming, step aerobics, yoga, Pilates you will do a full body WORK OUT. However, if you are weight training and do a full body WORK OUT you are wasting time. If you WORK OUT with weights pick one or two body parts a time and do those two only and then the next WORK OUT pick another two. Give each body part at least a day in between WORK OUTS.
Question: I love to run. Is it better on the elliptical, treadmill or outside?
Answer: They a have their advantages and disadvantages. Treadmill or elliptical sets the pace and there are less distractions, you also make sure you get a WORK OUT. The elliptical is the best for your joints because there is little or no impact. However, some love the outdoors. There are many distractions such as stopping for traffic, other pedestrians, and it is hard on your joints. Some also feel that it they lose track of time outdoors and can run longer without getting as bored.
Question: How come I stopped seeing results after I have been working out for a while?
Answer: You simply need to change your routine. Once you do the same thing for so long your body becomes accustomed to what you are going to do and will not change. Simply change the order or if you have been doing nothing more than cardio, switch it up and add in weights. You can always go back to something if you love it. The trick is to surprise your body.
Question: Is stretching before and/or after a WORK OUT a good idea?
Answer: The jury is out on stretching. If you do stretch only do about 5 or maybe 10 minutes prior and the same afterwards. You don’t want to over stretch. From the time I was little I was always told not to bounce.
Question: How long will I be sore?
Answer: That depends on each individual person. When you first start it will be the worse or when you increase or change your WORK OUT. Remember soreness is a sign that you’re gaining muscle so it is a good thing. When I haven’t been sore for a while, it is a sign that I need to increase my WORK OUT.
Question: I can’t WORK OUT all seven days a week, so how do I choose which days to WORK OUT?
Answer: You should aim for at least 4 days a week at minimum. Whatever you do choose, make sure that you do not take more than 2 days off in a row. If you take more than that it will be like you are starting all over and what you did prior to those 2 days off will have been wasted.
Question: Is it better to WORK OUT in the morning or at night?
Answer: The jury is out on this as well. All of the experts will tell you in the morning, that is why all of the WORK OUT shows are on at 5 am. I say whatever works best for you as long as you do it.
Question:Should I be taking supplements?
Answer: I personally don't believe in supplements. I believe that although there might be one or two that delivers on their promise, the vast majority is a bunch of hype and garbage. Studies always seem to come back saying that there is something dangerous inside of them. The only thing that I would consider is maybe a protein shake or bar. Even with those, be careful that the sugar and calories don’t outweigh the benefit of the protein. However, it is important to take necessary vitamins and/or minerals to compliment your food intake program. Consult with your doctor, nutritionist, or other health care professional to determine which vitamins and/or minerals you should be taking. Also see, “THE TRUTH ABOUT INFOMERCIALS”
Question: Should I wear a weight belt?
Answer: Unless you are using heavier weights or have a bad back it is not necessary. It can help with support if needed. Just be careful not to over compensate the use of the belt.
Question: How many repetitions should I do each set?
Answer: If you are using light to medium weight do a minimum of 15. If you are using heavier weight then you might only be able to do 8 or 10. These are guidelines, if by all means if you feel that you can do more, do them.
Question: How many sets should I do of each exercise?
Answer: I recommend working up to 6 or more sets of each exercise. I know that seems like a lot, but it will give you the fastest results. Start off doing 3 sets of each exercise and then work up to 6 or more sets.
Question: How long do I need to WORK OUT?
Answer: If you have never worked out before, start with about 20 to 30 minutes of continuous exercise. If that is still too much start off doing something in between commercials or while brushing your teeth etc. You should be able to be able to work up to 1hour 30-45 minutes if you are advanced. Anything more is not necessary.
Question: How do I keep myself motivated?
Answer: You just have to keep in mind that quitting is not a option. You can also read the sections, “EXCUSE BUSTERS,” “HOW DO I GET STARTED,” “LEARN HOW TO MAINTAIN PROPER EXERCISE AND FOOD INTAKE PROGRAM,” and “WHAT MUST I DO TO LEARN THE CORRECT EXERCISES AND FOOD INTAKE FOR MY BODY?” and “WORK OUT MANTRAS AND TIPS”
Answer:Ideally you should eat something small and healthy 20-30 minutes prior and 20-30 minutes after your WORK OUT. I would recommend something with protein or a piece of fruit. Your muscles use protein for development. You don't want to be on a full stomach or on an empty stomach. You should feel just right.
Question: What do I have to do to prevent being bulky?
Answer: The main trick is to lift light to medium weight and do as many repetitions as possible on each set. Every three or four WORK OUTS, you do want to lift a little heavier and then go back down to your normal routine.
Question: What should I do if I just want to lose the fat, I could care less about the muscle?
Answer:Cardio and more cardio. However, you do want to do some weight training to prevent sagging skin after you have lost the weight. I am sure you have seen the pictures of people with sagging skin, not pretty.
Question:Do I do a full body WORK OUT?
Answer: It depends, if you are doing exercises such as swimming, step aerobics, yoga, Pilates you will do a full body WORK OUT. However, if you are weight training and do a full body WORK OUT you are wasting time. If you WORK OUT with weights pick one or two body parts a time and do those two only and then the next WORK OUT pick another two. Give each body part at least a day in between WORK OUTS.
Question: I love to run. Is it better on the elliptical, treadmill or outside?
Answer: They a have their advantages and disadvantages. Treadmill or elliptical sets the pace and there are less distractions, you also make sure you get a WORK OUT. The elliptical is the best for your joints because there is little or no impact. However, some love the outdoors. There are many distractions such as stopping for traffic, other pedestrians, and it is hard on your joints. Some also feel that it they lose track of time outdoors and can run longer without getting as bored.
Question: How come I stopped seeing results after I have been working out for a while?
Answer: You simply need to change your routine. Once you do the same thing for so long your body becomes accustomed to what you are going to do and will not change. Simply change the order or if you have been doing nothing more than cardio, switch it up and add in weights. You can always go back to something if you love it. The trick is to surprise your body.
Question: Is stretching before and/or after a WORK OUT a good idea?
Answer: The jury is out on stretching. If you do stretch only do about 5 or maybe 10 minutes prior and the same afterwards. You don’t want to over stretch. From the time I was little I was always told not to bounce.
Question: How long will I be sore?
Answer: That depends on each individual person. When you first start it will be the worse or when you increase or change your WORK OUT. Remember soreness is a sign that you’re gaining muscle so it is a good thing. When I haven’t been sore for a while, it is a sign that I need to increase my WORK OUT.
Question: I can’t WORK OUT all seven days a week, so how do I choose which days to WORK OUT?
Answer: You should aim for at least 4 days a week at minimum. Whatever you do choose, make sure that you do not take more than 2 days off in a row. If you take more than that it will be like you are starting all over and what you did prior to those 2 days off will have been wasted.
Question: Is it better to WORK OUT in the morning or at night?
Answer: The jury is out on this as well. All of the experts will tell you in the morning, that is why all of the WORK OUT shows are on at 5 am. I say whatever works best for you as long as you do it.
Question:Should I be taking supplements?
Answer: I personally don't believe in supplements. I believe that although there might be one or two that delivers on their promise, the vast majority is a bunch of hype and garbage. Studies always seem to come back saying that there is something dangerous inside of them. The only thing that I would consider is maybe a protein shake or bar. Even with those, be careful that the sugar and calories don’t outweigh the benefit of the protein. However, it is important to take necessary vitamins and/or minerals to compliment your food intake program. Consult with your doctor, nutritionist, or other health care professional to determine which vitamins and/or minerals you should be taking. Also see, “THE TRUTH ABOUT INFOMERCIALS”
Question: Should I wear a weight belt?
Answer: Unless you are using heavier weights or have a bad back it is not necessary. It can help with support if needed. Just be careful not to over compensate the use of the belt.
Question: How many repetitions should I do each set?
Answer: If you are using light to medium weight do a minimum of 15. If you are using heavier weight then you might only be able to do 8 or 10. These are guidelines, if by all means if you feel that you can do more, do them.
Question: How many sets should I do of each exercise?
Answer: I recommend working up to 6 or more sets of each exercise. I know that seems like a lot, but it will give you the fastest results. Start off doing 3 sets of each exercise and then work up to 6 or more sets.
Question: How long do I need to WORK OUT?
Answer: If you have never worked out before, start with about 20 to 30 minutes of continuous exercise. If that is still too much start off doing something in between commercials or while brushing your teeth etc. You should be able to be able to work up to 1hour 30-45 minutes if you are advanced. Anything more is not necessary.
Question: How do I keep myself motivated?
Answer: You just have to keep in mind that quitting is not a option. You can also read the sections, “EXCUSE BUSTERS,” “HOW DO I GET STARTED,” “LEARN HOW TO MAINTAIN PROPER EXERCISE AND FOOD INTAKE PROGRAM,” and “WHAT MUST I DO TO LEARN THE CORRECT EXERCISES AND FOOD INTAKE FOR MY BODY?” and “WORK OUT MANTRAS AND TIPS”
The Thought Of Going To The Gym Scares Me
THE THOUGHT OF GOING TO THE GYM SCARES ME
This is something that I have never understood and is really just another excuse. For some the gym has become nothing more than a social outlet and many spend more time trying to show off and meet people. However, for those that are serious about working out it is an excellent place to go for exercise. The gym offers all of the equipment and environment necessary for a good WORK OUT. You have absolutely nothing to be afraid of Donna Richardson does a excellent job of providing insight on exercise, body image, and diet. Check it out here Lets Get Real
For me personally, if I am spending money on something I have to get something out of it. If you go to the gym I recommend going at different times to determine when you are most comfortable. Many of the gyms are 24 hours 7 days a week. You can go at times when there is no one but the employees and you and maybe a few other people. Some gyms also offer women only facilities.
You can also utilize a trainer to at least show you the basics such as form and how to use the equipment so that you remain safe. Remember no one can exercise for you. No matter how much someone wants to they cannot do the work for you. They can demonstrate, motivate, and inspire you but they cannot do for you.
If you are distracted by others, I recommend taking some type of music that you can get lost in. It will help you find a rhythm so that you become distracted to the point that you forget that you are exercising. I do not recommend reading because you do not want to lose complete focus. You will stop exercising to re read or find your spot.
Are you scared of the gym? Why? _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .
If you have been to the gym, how did you feel? _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .
Do you feel there is a benefit to the gym or do you feel that you can get a sufficient WORK OUT without going to the gym? Explain _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .
Depending on your above answer, what will you do at the gym or out of the gym? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
This is something that I have never understood and is really just another excuse. For some the gym has become nothing more than a social outlet and many spend more time trying to show off and meet people. However, for those that are serious about working out it is an excellent place to go for exercise. The gym offers all of the equipment and environment necessary for a good WORK OUT. You have absolutely nothing to be afraid of Donna Richardson does a excellent job of providing insight on exercise, body image, and diet. Check it out here Lets Get Real
For me personally, if I am spending money on something I have to get something out of it. If you go to the gym I recommend going at different times to determine when you are most comfortable. Many of the gyms are 24 hours 7 days a week. You can go at times when there is no one but the employees and you and maybe a few other people. Some gyms also offer women only facilities.
You can also utilize a trainer to at least show you the basics such as form and how to use the equipment so that you remain safe. Remember no one can exercise for you. No matter how much someone wants to they cannot do the work for you. They can demonstrate, motivate, and inspire you but they cannot do for you.
If you are distracted by others, I recommend taking some type of music that you can get lost in. It will help you find a rhythm so that you become distracted to the point that you forget that you are exercising. I do not recommend reading because you do not want to lose complete focus. You will stop exercising to re read or find your spot.
Are you scared of the gym? Why? _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .
If you have been to the gym, how did you feel? _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .
Do you feel there is a benefit to the gym or do you feel that you can get a sufficient WORK OUT without going to the gym? Explain _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ .
Depending on your above answer, what will you do at the gym or out of the gym? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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