Are you committed to losing weight in the healthiest way possible? If so, then you probably know high intensity workouts are the way to a slim and toned body. But how do you make the most out of each workout you endure? Here are the top workouts to avoid if you’re trying to lose weight (and when you avoid them, lose weight quicker than ever before!)
Focus on the Total Body Workout (Not Specifically Targeted Exercises)
If you want to lose more than 20 pounds, it doesn’t do you much good to do exercises that target a smaller muscle group. Exercises such as the flat bench press, bicep curls, or even calf raises aren’t the best use of your time—as they don’t maximize the fat blasting workout you could have with exercises that target larger muscle groups at once. Instead, shoot for a workout like the rowing machine, which will target your back, chest, shoulders, biceps and core all at once.
Or, go for an ‘old school’ workout that includes jumping jacks, squats, jump rope, push-ups and lunges. Using your body weight as resistance is an excellent way to work your entire body out (no gym equipment needed!) Sure, you’ll feel the burn—but you’ll see the benefit within weeks of a total body workout!
Don’t Participate in the ‘Zombie Workout’
Do you space out at the gym while running on the treadmill, or feel like a zombie when you’re working the leg press? If your head isn’t in the game from the beginning, you won’t have the motivation to push yourself past your limits (which is the only way you’ll reach weight loss). Changing up your workout is essential for keeping the spark of excitement going, but if you have a significant amount of weight to lose, you need to do it the right way. Focus on a walking/jogging plan where you can increase the intervals as your endurance improves (aiming for at least 80 percent of your maximum heart rate for at least 30 seconds).
Manage Your Cardio Amount (Don’t Overdo It)
Losing weight doesn’t happen overnight, which is why it can be tempting to overdo the cardio (exceeding 90 minutes of cardio per day). While getting at least thirty minutes of cardio per day is needed to lose weight, doing too much Zumba, indoor cycling or running can cause an injury. If you have weight to lose, remember that that weight is putting strain on your joints—so take it easy, and start with a lower intensity cardio plan. All movement counts, so work your way up sensibly!
