As a woman, you want to maximize your workouts so that you not only love the body you’ve got, but appreciate the skin you’re in. Since 2014 is the year of the ‘smart’ workout (that is, working out smarter, not harder) we’ve got the answers to your most pressing questions. That way, you can maximize your curves and minimize your waistline is less time than you can even imagine! Forget aiming for a ‘skinny’ frame—learn how to be strong, fit and sexy in a heartbeat!
What is One of the Biggest Mistakes Women Make at the Gym?
Here’s the truth about the matter—if you skip the weight room from your weekly workout routine, you won’t ever be able to maximize your fitness efforts. In addition, you won’t get the weight loss results you aim for. That’s because while many men hit the weight room to bulk up, women fear it. In reality, resistant training won’t cause you get a body builder physique, but instead boost your metabolism, lift your mood and allow you to tone and trim faster than cardio alone.
What Beauty Products Do I Need in my Gym Bag?
If you’re in the habit of an early morning workout (and one that leaves you rushing from the ladies room to your office) who has time for shampooing? Stick a small bottle of dry shampoo in your hair, apply to dry hair after your shower, and go.
Foundation can cause pores to clog, so be sure to wipe your face clean during your pre-workout routine with make-up remover wipes. Include several headbands, a diffuser for your hairdryer (which will prevent that unpleasant sweaty odor from the tips of your hair) and your favorite lip gloss to add some shine.
How Can I Squeeze in a Workout When Life is So Busy?
The modern woman is a busy woman, which means that in the midst of your hectic life, how can you possibly make time for a good old fashioned workout? Simple. Be proactive about your ‘pitfalls’, and work with them! In other words, if you know that after a busy day of work and kids, it’s unlikely that you’ll head to the gym for a workout, readjust your schedule. Observe your energy levels throughout the day and determine when you’re likely to hit the gym for a metabolism boosting workout—and when you’re likely to hit the pillow, instead.
If you’re high energy early in the morning, Work out before heading to your job, and devote yourself to a form of 6am exercise that you really love. By beating your ‘pitfalls’ to submission and devoting a smart approach to exercise, you’ll always find the time to work out…and be healthier and happier than ever!
What are Some Easy Pre-Workout and Post-Workout Snacks?
Are you committed to a healthy breakfast first thing in the morning to get you going? Studies have shown that it’s not just a nutritious breakfast that can raise your mood and metabolism—so can a high nutrient pre and post workout snack! Here are some of the best foods to help with muscle recovery and support your weight loss efforts:
- Slice a banana, and prepare it on a piece of toasted whole grain bread with peanut butter (or any type of nut butter);
- ½ cup of Greek yogurt, topped with granola and/or sliced strawberries and blueberries;
- Your favorite variation of a green smoothie. Need some inspiration? Blend up the following g, and notice the kick in your step during your cardio workout! Blend up one cup fresh baby spinach or kale, 1 Tbs. of peanut butter, 2 tsp. of coconut palm sugar, ½ cup of almond milk and a banana. Enjoy!
What are Some of the Best Exercises to Do After Having a Baby?
Many women are told to wait six weeks (or possibly longer) before getting back to your regular exercise program. While you are busy enjoying—and experiencing ecstasy—for the new addition to your family, getting your body back to its pre-pregnancy state can be frustrating to deal with. After delivery of your baby, begin walking as soon as possible. Walk for as long as you can, and as the weeks pass, increase the length and speed of your walks.
After speaking to your doctor at your six week appointment (and being given the “go ahead”) incorporate a yoga class into your routine and increase strength through pelvic tilts and the supported bridge and warrior poses. Pilates is another great workout to try, as well as some light weights. Go slow, and tweak your workout if you experience any discomfort.
Where there’s a will, there is always a way. You deserve to have the best body possible, so focus on being proactive in your approach to fitness. In no time at all, you’ll have the body you deserve!
