It is May so if you are anything like the rest of Americans, you have probably lost your work out motivation, and all of that weight you were going to lose this year is still stuck on your midsection. Creating a workout routine is hard enough, but if your attempts are half-hearted, it will never work.
As I have been trying like hell to shake off these last few pounds of baby weight, I have to come to realize that working out is more than just dragging yourself to the gym. You can’t just dive into a run or a spinning class without a little prep and some aftercare to keep your body in peak condition and ready to keep up with a workout routine. Here are a few tips to help you stay motivated at the gym and successful in your exercise regimen.
Get Enough Sleep
This tip is obvious and helpful for pretty much life in general. However, when you skimp on sleep, it inhibits your body’s ability to produce proteins for muscle development which can cause muscle loss and potential injury during exercise.
Don’t keep hitting that snooze button. Give yourself plenty of time to get to bed and get up on time for your day. That means turn off the TV, put away your phone, and get in bed at a reasonable hour. You might find you have much more energy through the day and maybe even energy to get your workout done.
Hydrate
Most people wait to hydrate until they are thirsty. Big mistake. It is important to hydrate before, during, and after your workout routine. It will help keep your energy levels up to kick butt during your workout. BODYARMOR Sports Drink has what you need to hydrate and replenish your body so it performs at its highest level. It contains electrolytes, coconut water, and vitamins to hydrate your cells and keep you moving. Packed with potassium, it helps prevent muscle fatigue. You won’t find any coloring from artificial sources, BODYARMOR uses natural flavors and sweeteners to create eleven delicious flavors.
You can now buy them in 6 packs in Strawberry Banana, Orange Mango, Fruit Punch, and Peach Mango Lyte. They are available at a variety of local retailers including Ralph’s, Vons, Albertson’s and Stater Brother.
Click here to get a dollar off on your next 6 pack of BODYARMOR or grab a single in one of these refreshing flavors.
- Strawberry Banana
- Orange Mango
- Fruit Punch
- Blackout Berry
- Watermelon Strawberry
- Pineapple Coconut
- Mixed Berry
- Tropical Punch
- Lemonade
- Grape
- Knockout Punch
Snack
A small snack about 30 minutes before working out is a good idea to help keep energy levels up. Avoid having an entire meal just before working out. You need a few hours of digestion after a large meal before you hit the gym. Grab a light snack to give you just the right amount of pep to jump on the treadmill or get through your workout class. Grab some carbs or protein to give your body what it needs to work efficiently. These go-to snacks are perfect to amp up your routine.
- Nuts
- Hard boiled egg
- Granola Bar
- Fruit
- Crackers
- Dried Fruit
Look The Part
Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and supported. Nothing is worse than starting a workout and realizing you definitely don’t have the right bra on or your undies are not going to cooperate with your moves. Buy workout clothes that fit well and will give you some confidence as you strut through the gym. When you look good, you feel good.
Stretch
If we don’t stretch our muscles, they can shorten and become tight which makes range of motion difficult. It is important to stretch those muscles to keep them strong and healthy. Simple stretches after your workout will help keep your muscles flexible and prevent potential injuries allowing you to keep up with your workout routine.
Brought to you by BODYARMOR. All opinions remain my own.