OPTIMIZE YOUR EXERCISE ROUTINE

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Get the most out of your exercise routine

In the previous section we talked about how exercise improves your life. Here we provide you with suggestions on how you can improve your exercise routine.

Steps to optimize your exercise routine:

  • Set some short and long term goals

  • Start your exercise routine with a dynamic warm up

  • Strength train at least twice a week and make sure you address your large muscle groups: legs, back, chest, glutes

  • Exercise for 5 hours per week

What is progress?

Progress means becoming better over time. It is not linear but comes with ups and downs. For example, if you did not lose weight during a particular period, but you became able to climb several flights of stairs or run a mile, that represents progress. It’s important to see the big picture and recognize the overall progress. This will increase your confidence and positivity.

Making progress is key

It’s very rewarding to get better and notice you can do things that you previously thought you were never capable of. Set some long term goals, including things that may initially not seem possible, and then envision yourself accomplishing those goals. Then break it down and set some realistic shorter-term milestones. Your short term goals should be with a 3 month timeframe. Work your way up from there. Remember, even the longest journeys begin with a single step.

Stay positive when you have to adjust your timeline

Don’t throw in the towel if you did not reach your goal. It does not necessarily mean that you did not make any progress. Over time you will gain more understanding around how to advance and improve your exercise regime. And the better you become at exercise, the more accurate you will become at setting and achieving new goals.

General forms of progress:

  • Building more muscle

  • Improvements in balance

  • Increases in speed

  • Improved mobility

  • Increased enjoyment during exercise

  • Improved knowledge about exercise

Specific examples of progress:

  • Being able to run a fast 1-mile

  • Doing 10 pull ups

  • Being able to do an advanced yoga class

  • Completing a 1/2 marathon

  • Getting rid of shoulder pain

Advancing your exercise routine with a friend

There are many benefits to exercising with a friend; you can encourage each other to become better and make the journey more fun.

Do you experience difficulties with your exercise routine?

If you struggle with your exercise routine, we encourage you to study these 11 habits. It might make sense to look at other aspects of your lifestyle. As you work on all of these things simultaneously, you will notice it becomes easier to complete your exercise routine.

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