3 Terrible Ways to Prep for a Workout, and What To Do Instead
💙 Confused about what to eat or drink before a workout?
🦅 What is the best warm-up to do before your workout?
💙 How do you put a plan in place?
Eat a fatty meal.
Eating a burger and fries before a workout might not be the best idea because they're high in fat and could slow down digestion, leaving you feeling sluggish. The grease and heaviness might make you uncomfortable during exercise. It's like putting the wrong fuel in a car—it might still run, but it won't perform at its best. Opt for a balanced meal with carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to effectively fuel your workout.
Skip the warm-up.
Cold muscles and joints are less flexible and more prone to strains and sprains. A proper warm-up increases blood flow, raises your body temperature, and prepares your muscles and joints for the upcoming activity.
Additionally, skipping a warm-up may impact your performance. Cold muscles don't contract and relax as efficiently, which can affect strength, power, and overall workout effectiveness. You might find yourself fatiguing more quickly and not reaching your full potential during the session.
So, think of your warm-up as the pre-game preparation—it sets the stage for a safer and more productive workout.
Don’t have a plan.
Having a workout plan comes with several benefits. Here are a few:
Efficiency: A structured plan helps you make the most of your time at the gym. You know exactly what exercises to do, how many sets and reps, and which muscle groups to target.
Consistency: A plan adds routine to your workouts. Consistency is key for progress, whether you're aiming for strength, endurance, or overall fitness.
Goal Achievement: If you have specific fitness goals, a well-designed plan can guide you toward them. Whether it's building muscle, losing weight, or improving cardiovascular health, a plan keeps you on track.
Variety: A plan allows you to incorporate a variety of exercises, preventing boredom and keeping your body challenged. This can lead to better overall fitness and reduce the risk of overuse injuries.
Motivation: Knowing what you're working toward can be motivating. Having a plan provides a sense of purpose during your workouts, helping you stay focused and committed.