Exercising is one of the best activities that you can do to maintain quality health. Not only will you have the strength and ability to perform daily tasks, but you will also reduce your chances of developing health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
Understanding your goals is essential to creating a plan to help you achieve them. Although being active and getting your body to move is better than no movement at all. But it is crucial to ensure that your exercise is worth it. After all, you may not get your desired results if you are not exercising correctly. You can also be at risk of sustaining injuries.
Here are five common mistakes you make and how you can avoid them
Overtraining
Overtraining is probably the most common exercise mistake that people often make. It stems from the idea that you need to push hard to see any results. Putting in the effort and time at the gym is necessary, but there should be a limit to how many workouts you do, especially if you are a beginner. Progress gradually, instead of powering through them in a short time. You can avoid overtraining by listening to your body and taking enough time to rest.
Workouts in improper form
Exercising in the proper form is essential for getting results, whether running, lifting weights, or doing a yoga routine. Improper form is a common cause of injuries in the gym. Many people do not realise this, especially when they do not get any assistance from a professional. Your best bet is to seek the help of professional training who will coach you through different exercises and ensure you are doing them correctly.
Not doing pre-workout routine
No matter your fitness level, a pre-workout routine is essential for gaining results during your workouts. A pre-workout routine must include a light exercise, maybe some cardio and stretches. Not warming up before exercise can lead to injuries and premature fatigue, especially while performing HIIT activities. Also, cooling down after a workout helps relieve muscle soreness and improve recovery.
Try to do quick-moving or dynamic warm-ups before a workout, such as jumping jacks, arm circles, brisk walking or marching in place. Any activity that allows you to move your muscles and sweat will do.
Performing the same workout routine
Not switching your workout from time to time can lead to injury or burnout. While doing any form of activity is encouraged, it is important to try something if your goal is to improve your overall fitness. And you do not need to ditch your current routine, but add a variety to it regularly. Doing a varied workout routine ensures that all parts of your body get attention, and you are not neglecting any areas. Incorporate cardio exercises and weight training to improve muscle endurance and strength while improving your joint movements with flexibility exercises.
Not getting enough time to rest and recover
To get the most out of your workout over time, you need to ensure that you are getting enough rest. The more intense the workout, the more rest you need to promote recovery. If you feel like you are going too hard in the gym, quickly take a break and rest for a minute or two. There is no point in pushing yourself to the state of complete exhaustion. Take lots of water after workouts and eat pre-workout food to replenish lost calories.
