Look Good: 5 Gym Hacks for Better Results
By Revathie Dhanabalan
May 18, 2017
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Can’t seem to make it to the gym
these days, or not seeing the results you hoped for? Welcome to our first Look Good series, where we discover
different ways of keeping active and looking good at the same time! Today, we
take a look at easy gym hacks for those days when you need extra exercise
motivation.
Gym Hack #1: Don’t Sit Between Sets
It is tempting to just stop
between sets, but taking a break by being completely stationary between sets
have several downsides to your workout. Not only does it hinder optimal
recovery, Lou Schuler, author of The
Lean Muscle Diet explains that "sitting down makes it easier for your
mind to wander". The time between sets should be an opportunity to maximise
performance for your next set. Engage in active recovery activities such as foam
rolling or even stretching.
Gym Hack #2: Change it Up
Sticking with the same exercise
plan for too long can get your body and mind too comfortable. Every three or
four weeks, mix up your routine to improve results and prevent boredom. New
routines and exercises can also make workouts fun and keep your mind alert, while
you get more out of the gym! If you prefer to keep to the same moves in the
weight room, why not add on these 6
exercises for strong arms suggested by our very own EnergyOne fitness
instructor.
Gym Hack #3: Build your Playlist
Sometimes getting motivated to
exercise can be harder than the workout itself. But the right playlist could help
you get the most out of your workout. Research into the
psychology of effective workout music suggests that music changes “people’s
perception of their own effort throughout a workout”. Music with a strong beat also
allows you to stay consistent during workouts. Make your own high octane
playlist and start your workout by being motivated throughout the session.
Gym Hack #4: Don’t Starve before a Session
Do not skimp on the calories
before a workout! If you are planning a solid one-hour workout, consume a meal
that is filled with carbohydrates and protein about an hour before. This
ensures consistent
levels of energy throughout your routine and aids in muscle repair. If a
carb-meal sounds heavy, try an antioxidant juice like watermelon or eat a few
slices of fruit before a workout to lessen post-exercise soreness. You should
also ensure that you start refueling after a workout! Check out our top
five post-meal workouts.
Gym Hack #5: Morning Workouts are the Best
Is your work schedule hectic? Why
not start your day off with an endorphin rushing workout! Exercising earlier in
the day not only refreshes the mind, but also prepares
the body for the rest of the day. You start the day by being more productive
while boosting your metabolism. Studies have also shown that people who wake
up early to exercise sleep
better than those who routinely exercise in the evening.
Whatever your fitness goals may
be, use these gym hacks to your advantage. In the meantime, check out EnergyOne Gym and learn
more ways to exercise
smarter while you are decking out at the gym! If you are prepping for the
upcoming SAFRA
Singapore Bay Run & Army Half Marathon, try out SAFRA Running Club’stips
to conquer the marathon!
