Information on working out has been made out to be far more complicated than it really is. There is an information overload when it comes to getting fit – countless articles on dieting, lifting, cardio, benefits of having a trainer etc. When it comes to working out you must play around with what works for you, what exercises are most beneficial for you, how often you should train, and a realistic diet you should follow.
This sounds like a lot and is the main reason a lot of people revert to trainers giving them all of this information. Trainers can be extremely helpful if you get someone that is educated, cares about your results, and isn’t solely in the business to reap their own benefits. Picking a trainer can be as complicated as picking a workout, but if you think you can figure it out you will give yourself extreme satisfaction for both your mind and your wallet! Here are five tips on becoming your own personal trainer that will help you take your workouts to the next level:
1. Set Goals
The importance of goals is to consistently have something you are aiming towards. When setting goals I tend to follow the SMART acronym that helps me set specific, achievable, realistic, and smart goals.
- S – specific goals, specify exactly what you want to achieve
- M – measurable, allow yourself to consistently track your success
- A – achievable, a goal that is challenging yet practical
- R – realistic, goals that direct you onto a healthier lifestyle path
- T – timely, this sets a sense of urgency in your training
2. Motivate Yourself
Having goals is just the beginning to keeping yourself motivated and is a great way to start. Tell yourself why you want to fight to accomplish your goals, and right these reasons in different places around your house to remind you everyday. When you realize your “why” revert back to this when you want to skip a workout. Have motivating pictures, playlists, and videos accessible to you at all times to remind yourself why you need to stick to your plan.
3. Design Workouts and Workout Schedule
Design a workout plan throughout the week that will balance your entire bodies development. Depending on what you enjoy try to incorporate cardio, strength training, and flexibility sessions into your week and make sure you stick to your schedule. Hit all of your muscle groups during the week so you begin gaining strength throughout your whole body. Fitting in yoga, pilates, foam rolling, or stretching on your own will help you to prevent injury and to recover faster after your workouts.
4. Track Progress
In order to get your body-composition measurements you may need to see a qualified personal trainer or dietician. This will show you exactly where you started and allow yourself to track your results four to six weeks after your initial measurements. Track your weight while lifting, and your speed while doing cardio, this will show you all the progress you have made and will reinforce your motivation to keep going.
5. Nutrition
I personally don’t like the word ‘diet’ it makes me fear whether or not I will stay on track of my foods each week because I know sometimes I will crave food that isn’t the best for me. I follow the ‘all in moderation’ rule, which is more realistic for my goals and lifestyle. Always incorporate fruits and vegetables to aid in your overall health and digestion. Lean protein for muscle repair, carbohydrates for energy recuperations, and healthy fats to support proper hormone levels.
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