Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Starting Your Weight Lifting Regimen

So you've finally set your heart on beginning your weight training program. Take time to gather your thoughts before you start. Many people become too enthusiastic that they start without having had enough preparation. This could lead to some false starts that could burn you out and turn you off from working out. That would be a shame. If you are, however, well prepared for your new commitment, you are more assured that you can go through your full regimen.

It is very important to first lay down your clear cut program goals in writing. Make a list of what you would like to achieve. Do you want to reach a certain weight? Would that mean having to lose weight or gain weight? Is there a certain way you want your body to look like? Do you want to bulk up your muscles or do you want them toned, long and lean? It is necessary for you to set down your concrete targets because these shall also determine what weight training regimen you should undergo. Of course you need professional advice on what program is best for your goals.

Once you have the correct program, you should not just go through it. Get yourself a workout journal, take your measurements and record this so that you can monitor your progress. Create a base line record by measuring your chest, waist, biceps, hips, and thighs before you begin the program, then compare all succeeding measurements to this. Before starting on your program, as well, inspect your own body objectively in front of a mirror. Describe in your journal which parts of your body you want to improve, and exactly what changes you want to happen. Every day, note down any changes you observe. You can assess how your regimen is working by combining your regular measurements and your visual observations. You will be motivated to work harder once you see the changes begin to happen.

In addition to your exercises, you also need to include proper eating and sleeping patterns to your regimen. In terms of diet, find out what food you need to eat to supplement your exercises, and what food you have to eliminate. Your body needs to be fed within an hour after any workout session. This will ensure that your muscles are not deprived of much needed nutrients. Keep in mind that during a workout, you are tearing up muscle fibers. Your body needs the proper nutrients to repair these muscles. This is also why you need to sleep well for at least eight hours every night. Muscle repair and growth happen mostly while the body is in deep sleep.

If you are well prepared for your weight training program, the chances of your sticking to it for the long term are increased. So are the chances of your reaping the hard earned fruits of your labor.

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Garmin Forerunner 405 Heart Rate Monitor Watch