Adapting Workouts Based on Your Metabolism

In order to determine how one should adapt their workouts based on their metabolism, it is important to understand what metabolism is.

Metabolism is the net caloric expenditure or surplus of all reactions in the body, both catabolic (caloric deficit) and anabolic (caloric surplus). Your metabolism is generally dictated by: Continue reading “Adapting Workouts Based on Your Metabolism”

The Importance of Consulting With Your Doctor Before Exercising

Staying physically active is important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and regular exercise is a great way to keep your body and mind healthy in a variety of ways. Whether you are just starting to work out or currently live an active lifestyle and want to challenge yourself more, it is always important to talk with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

Your Doctor Usually Knows What is Best

While you know your body the best, visiting your doctor before exercising can still be helpful because they may be able to identify things problems in your body that are difficult to self-diagnose. By talking to your doctor, they can advise you on what type of exercise program may or may not be the best fit based on your physical ability. For instance, if you have never run in your life starting with a beginner’s program or a steady jog would be safer than suddenly trying to run a 5K.

Additionally, your physician will be able to tell you if you should be exercising more based on your current physical condition or if you need to slow down to avoid overworking your body.

Keep in mind that moderate physical activity is generally safe for most people. For example, a brisk walk would be okay to take every day, but anything more strenuous could cause a problem to arise until your body gets used to the activity.

To be proactive, here are some tips for when you should talk with your doctor before exercising:

  • You have an ongoing or existing medical issue like high blood pressure or cholesterol, asthma, diabetes, joint pain, et cetera.
  • You just underwent any type of medical procedure.
  • You are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
  • You feel like you are significantly overweight.
  • You are regularly being seen by a doctor for a medical condition.
  • You are not currently physically active for at least 30 minutes two to three days a week.

Still Exercising? You Still Talk to Your Physician

Keep your doctor’s phone number handy, because every once in a while they can provide an assessment to see if it you need to slow down or if you can do more. If you are easing back into a regular exercise program, you should not be running long distances or lifting extremely heavy weights right off the bat.

Likewise, if you are more advanced, listen to your body and take a rest and try not to push yourself too far. Sometimes, pushing your body too far with exercise can be just as detrimental as not exercising at all, so always err on the side of caution.

Here are some situations where you should call your doctor while you are working out:

  • You have shortness of breath often or get dizzy and lightheaded easy
  • Experience any pain or numbness in muscles or joints for an extended amount of time
  • If you get serious headaches during and after working out
  • Your heartbeat is very pronounced or rapid
  • You have extreme lower back or lower leg pain during normal, everyday activities even during rest

It should also go without saying that if you feel like you have hurt yourself in any way, shape or form during exercise that you should call your doctor immediately. Even if the pain or discomfort of a movement is mild or last for a short time that is enough cause to go in for a check-up.

Always Listen to Your Body

At any time if you feel the least bit unhealthy, do not hesitate to consult with your doctor. Sometimes when something may not feel like a big deal to you, there could be an underlying issue and a simple check-up could provide an easy remedy. Stay proactive by listening to your body and talk with a physician before you start a new, more rigorous program or about using certain equipment.

By talking with your doctor, together you can address any unique challenges you may have towards physical activity. Some can even make a specialized diet and exercise plan tailored to fit your own needs and goals. Your doctor can easily provide you an assessment of your current fitness level to help you learn where it is appropriate to start. Remember, working with your doctor is a great first step to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

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Stop Comparing Yourself To Others & Just Do You

It’s easy to get caught up in all of the hype whenever we start our fitness journeys.  We research what other people have done to get results and see that this person saw results doing one diet and workout, while someone else recommends trying another method, like supplements. It can become overwhelming and you start to feel like you need to keep up with everyone else or you’re going to be left behind.

On the other hand, you may feel like you’re as fit as everyone else or doing the same things, so you should already be at their level. At this point, you start comparing your own routine to what someone else is doing or how your body looks compared to theirs. This can be a dangerous place if overdone or an exciting and motivating one if you think about it in the right way. Continue reading “Stop Comparing Yourself To Others & Just Do You”

4 Tips to Get Back On Track After A Long Layoff

We have all done it; fallen off the proverbial “deep end” – whether it is in regards to nutrition or our workouts, many of us have had a bad streak. Vacations, weekends, or parties all attribute to diet and training program failures. When this happens, the key is to not let it completely derail your goals. Below we will discuss 5 tips to get you back on track toward achieving your goals. Continue reading “4 Tips to Get Back On Track After A Long Layoff”

Nope, Not This Year!

You have to be tired of making the same plan every year. You might even be adding to the list because you didn’t achieve it the year before. How can we all want something so bad but not be able to quit doing the things that take us farther away from those goals? Continue reading “Nope, Not This Year!”

3 “Eureka!” Moments to Feel Proud of Your Progress

Setting fitness goals for yourself and finding the motivation to regularly hit the gym is exciting. However, results will take a little time to start to show, so don’t let yourself become discouraged if you aren’t seeing them as quickly as you’d like. Instead of becoming discouraged and impatient, take a look these reassuring aspects that will restore your fitness motivation along the way: Continue reading “3 “Eureka!” Moments to Feel Proud of Your Progress”

How to Create a Fun Mother-Daughter Workout

RES Week 2There are lots of factors that can turn mother-daughter workout experiences into a less than enjoyable situation. There are generation gaps (both physical and mental) along with self-image and body consciousness.

Don’t let this natural void be intimidating! Working out can be a great opportunity to bond with your daughter when you follow these tips on how to make it an enjoyable experience. Continue reading “How to Create a Fun Mother-Daughter Workout”

Choosing the Right Fitness Equipment

Modern interior of a zone of rest at office

Choosing to build a home gym is a big decision. With all the different types of equipment available, it can be hard to know where to start. Whether it’s the only piece you’ll need or for you’re putting together a more extensive home gym setup, here are some suggestions that may help you decide on the best equipment for you: Continue reading “Choosing the Right Fitness Equipment”

Finding the Right Personal Trainer for You

Getting some important coordination trainingDeciding to hire a personal trainer is a great route for women who are beginning to work out regularly but may not know how to reach their fitness goals. However, it is extremely important that you find the personal trainer that will be best for your body, motivations, and specific goals. Continue reading “Finding the Right Personal Trainer for You”