A new workout is an exciting way to better meet your fitness goals. Whether you’re looking to shed a few extra pounds or gain some more muscle strength, adjusting your routine can be highly effective. Any change in routine can be surprising for your body, so you’re going to want to take a few steps to prepare before you get started.
Set Fitness Goals
Workout routines can have different effects on your body. A routine consisting mostly of cardio can help you lose weight, but it won’t provide significant muscle growth. A strength training routine with minimal cardio will focus on strength over weight loss. A combination of both can help you stay strong and fit. Determine what your goals are for working out. You may want to avoid gaining weight, or you may want to lose weight. If you’re trying to build strength, you can make that your goal instead. Once you know what you want out of your fitness routine, you can create a more detailed and effective plan to meet your goals more easily.
Consult With Your Doctor
Changing a fitness routine means putting your body through various stresses that it will need to adjust to. Even if you feel healthy, asking your doctor before starting a routine is a wise choice. Certain medications or conditions may make certain activities unsafe or risky. Running outside on a hot day while you’re taking beta-blockers can cause heat illnesses if you’re not careful. Lifting weights when you have inflammatory conditions can cause intense pain. You’ll also want to have your joints, muscles, and blood tested for any concerns. Conditions like a high red blood cell count can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke, especially when working out. Treatment for these issues is fairly straightforward. You can even receive therapeutic phlebotomy at home for your convenience. Getting a clean bill of health can help you meet your fitness goals safely.
Adjust Your Nutrition
Depending on your routine change, you may need to adjust your diet or nutritional intake. A more rigorous workout routine may require more protein or calories to provide your body with necessary energy. If you’re lightening your fitness load, you may need to eat less to maintain a good calorie balance. If you’re changing your fitness goal to lose more weight, you may need to readjust your calorie intake. You can consult with a nutritionist to help you create a safe and healthy meal plan that suits your workout and lifestyle. You don’t want to deprive your body of essential nutrients when you’re starting a new workout routine!
Hydrate Yourself
Hydration is essential, regardless of your fitness routine; however, dehydration can make workouts more challenging and dangerous. Adequate hydration ensures that all of your body’s systems and organs have the energy to function properly. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, heat-related illnesses, and fainting when you’re working out, so be sure to drink fluids before, during, and after your workout. Drink at least one glass of water an hour before your new routine to prepare your body for the change in activity. Most health experts recommend consuming 12 to 15 cups of water a day. Ask your doctor what the optimal range is for your body size and workout routine.
Consider a Trainer
A personal trainer isn’t just someone who encourages you during your workout; they are also someone who guides you through it. They can create a science-backed workout plan tailored to your specific goals, lifestyle, and body type. They can help you stay safe and motivated throughout your workout routine. They can spot you during a rigorous strength training session and support you if you feel off during your cardio routines. Consider consulting with a personal trainer to ensure your fitness goals are on track.
Stretch and Warm Up
Working out is very labor-intensive for your body. Transitioning directly from a sedentary position to an intense workout can place excessive stress on your heart, lungs, and muscles. Stretching and warming up to the intensity can help you prepare mentally and physically for your workout. Your heart and lungs can slowly acclimate to the change in activity level, while your muscles and joints relax and become more flexible. Stretch every part of the body you’ll be working with for your workout. Do some deep breathing exercises to prepare your heart and lungs. Move lightly to adjust your body to movement. You’re less vulnerable to muscle pain or workout injury with an adequate warm-up and cool-down session. Don’t skip them!
Listen to Your Body
Even a minor change in your fitness routine can feel strange at first. Your body may need more time to adjust. If you feel faint, dizzy, or experience chest pain while working out, stop and take a rest. Don’t be afraid to call an ambulance if you’re concerned. Listen to what your body is telling you. Sometimes, pushing through the pain isn’t the best answer. You can slow down or take a different approach if it’s too much at once.
Conclusion
A regular fitness routine is an excellent choice for both your physical and mental health. You can maintain your heart and lung health while also keeping your strength and flexibility. Working out provides a physical outlet for stress or any other emotional excess you may be carrying. Before starting or changing a routine, ensure it’s safe for your body, health, and lifestyle. Consulting with a doctor, nutritionist, and physical trainer can help you meet your goals safely and efficiently.