Gents, summer is just a few short weeks away, so that means it’s the perfect time to prepare your body. While warmer weather brings more people outdoors, it’s always a good idea to balance outdoor movement with a solid strength training routine in the gym. Don’t worry, you’re covered with four distinct ways to maximize your strength training.
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Benefits of strength training
Strength training has many benefits, including improving muscle and joint strength, cardiac function, metabolism, and increasing bone density. A customized routine can make everyday activities like walking up the stairs or carrying heavy objects even easier. Ultimately, strength training can help provide a better overall quality of life, improved physical performance, and lowered risk of injury.
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Knowing your limits
In addition to its many benefits, it’s especially important to be careful when adding strength training to a fitness routine. It is possible to do too much, especially with the wrong approach. Without adequate rest between sets and workout days, or with the wrong form, you could end up harming the muscles you’ve been working so hard to strengthen.
Getting a strong start
Here are some tips to make the most out of strength training and keep yourself injury-free as you gear up for the summer:
- Keep it fresh. Mixing up your workouts – like switching it up between free weights and strength equipment – not only keeps things interesting but also helps you hit different muscle groups, giving you the variety needed to avoid overworking the same muscle groups with the same exercises.
- Focus on form, not numbers. Getting caught up in trying to beat personal bests or only lifting heavy weights can be ineffective and also put your body at risk of injury. Some of the best strength training exercises— including leg presses, overhead presses, squats and crunches — can also lead to some of the most serious injuries with the wrong form. Good form is essential for staying safe and reaching your strength training goals. At Planet Fitness, you can scan the barcode on any machine for a quick demo on how to use it properly.
- Find the right equipment for you. Using the right equipment can go a long way in maximizing your strength. Consider using a stretch mat in your warm-up or cool-down, adding resistance bands to your overall strength training routine, or using strength machines for controlled resistance and gradual progress.
- Listen to your body. Always make sure to take a beat and listen to the signs of your body to make sure you don’t overdo it. Being able to recognize when you need a short break or a full recovery day will help keep you healthy and safe.
Summer plans
As you start making plans for summer and preparing your body for the additional movement that comes with longer, sun-filled days, make sure you do it the right way. Planet Fitness has the equipment that meets your needs from strength to cardio machines and also has free fitness training to help you build the right routine is key. Of course, a supportive and welcoming environment can also go a long way in helping you get the most out of your fitness routine, and keep you feeling good with every visit.
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Feature Photo by Victor Freitas
