So I have been working out with my trainer for a few weeks now and I can already really see a difference in my overall strength outside of my cardio training. He is a former college basketball player and pushes me, which as a former athlete, I crave. I love to push myself but I like the idea of a coach pushing me to get the best out of each and every performance.
Some things I have also noticed about working out more regularly:
1. You feel good when you like your workout gear. I genuinely love picking out my gym outfit everyday and I have to say the nicer gear makes me more excited at the gym. I feel more confident and a boost of confidence makes you feel great, even before you get your sweat on.
2. Different sneakers are good for different kinds of workouts. I love my Nike Frees, but they are not great for running, especially after knee surgery. As a result I rock my frees for circuit training and machine workouts, clip ins for spin class, Nike Studio wraps for yoga and pilates, and my new Asics for running. The cushioning is amazing, I get why people swear by them.
3. It is important to vary your workouts. I love pilates, circuit training with my trainer, spin and jogging. I also like to mix it up with team sports like pick up basketball, flag football and softball. This also means that you never get bored. Another great use is the Nike Training Club App. I swear by this app, especially when traveling as workouts come in a variety of focus areas and times.
4. Muscle comes first, then comes fat loss. It is often that you put on a few pounds when you start to circuit train as you gain muscle. That's ok! Muscle helps burn fat at a faster rate and rev up your metabolism, so it will come naturally.
5. Energy levels spike. I do love the second wind exercise gives me in the evenings. It is a renewal not only for my physical energy but my mind as well. An hour or two to myself each day makes me a better spouse and co-worker as I have some mental me time.
6. You sleep more soundly. I've definitely noticed the last few weeks how much better I am sleeping. I am not as light of sleeper these days which means I am not tossing and turning all night and not waking up at 5am when Dan wakes up for work.
7. Being called a gym rat is not the worst thing. Being dedicated to your overall well being is great and spending time at the gym everyday, if that makes you happy, is cool by me! Go ahead use your me time by bettering yourself.
7. Overall just greater sense of happiness. Being more at peace and fitter both mentally and physically makes me more fun to be around and generally happier. Working out releases endorphins which make you happy. Elle Woods taught us that.
8. Goals and rewards are great motivators. Goals are great and my goal to drop 50 pounds is a big one, so it is important to give yourself rewards along the way. I am happy with who I am but I would love to lose all the weight I gained with my last two injuries these last three years. 50 pounds is the overall goal, but I would be stoked with anything from 35 on.
What have you learned from working out?
