Saturday, July 12, 2008

How To: Beat a Workout Plateau

You’ve been killing yourself at the gym lately, spending hour’s everyday on the treadmill and weight machines. Yet, the weight won’t budge. It seems like you’ve developed a little case of the weight loss plateau, something that happens when your body gets used to a workout.

Our bodies are very efficient systems in that they burn just enough calories to keep us going. However, the body is very smart as well, and when it becomes accustomed to a workout routine, it no longer works as hard to burn those cals.

But good news for you: you can fix the problem easily! You just have to change up your daily routine, so you’ll work harder and sweat a whole lot more.

For instance, if you’re a treadmill gal, try out the elliptical. Or, if you’ve been doing the same old sprints every day, try doing intervals instead. (Steady pace for 5 minutes; sprint for 1, repeat)

Another idea is to try some of the classes offered at your local gym. Aerobics, kickboxing, spinning, yoga and Pilates are all great, dynamic classes that can get you into shape fast. And, they’ll keep you having fun, so it won’t be such a chore to workout.

Changing up your routines and trying new things will get your heart rate back into action, and you’ll start seeing results before you know it. Good luck!

No comments: