Working out can be a struggle. Sometimes you're not mentally there during a workout. Sometimes you're not mentally or physically strong enough for some workouts.
1. Don't kill yourself the first day
The worst thing you can do to yourself is to overdo it on the first day. If you're not used to being sore, you'll think it sucks and chances are... You won't want to go back. Ease your muscles into the newfound routine of exercising. Don't try running three miles or lifting the heaviest weights there. Everyone is there to get better, just like you.
2. Don't load up on protein powder
Consuming too much protein during the day can actually do more harm to your goal than benefit. If you don't burn off the protein in your body, it will store it as fat, which defeats the purpose of your workouts. The right amount in moderation will be your best friend. Do NOT take it if you are not working out that day!!!!!
3. Cardio SUCKS! But it gets the job done
This is a tip I need to follow myself: Cardio sucks. However, cardio gets your heart rate up and helps you shed weight more than anything else (besides changing your diet, duh). Cardio also helps in toning your legs, which is an extra plus.
4. 20% exercise, 80% diet
Popeye didn't get those muscles from a diet of McDonald's and iced coffee. When people say that it is most likely what you eat... It IS. Make it a goal to eat at least one salad a day, drink water with all of your meals, and hit a daily step goal for yourself.
5. Count those dang calories
Although you might think you don't eat unhealthily, you definitely eat worse than you think. Count your calories through a free downloadable app on your phone... You will definitely see a big change in your diet and you get to learn at the same time!
6. Don't weigh yourself every day
Weighing yourself every day is one of the worst things you can do for. You could be 150 one day, 154 the next, and 148 the day after that–it fluctuates like crazy! It all depends on what you eat, when you weigh yourself, and your recent exercise. You will be better off weighing yourself every week or two.
7. Weight training... Don't miss out on gains
Weight training isn't just for the boys. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn while doing nothing. It benefits you when trying to lose weight or just toning your body. If you're looking to tone, use lighter weights, higher reps (15-20), and extra sets (3-5). If you're looking to gain muscle mass, use heavier weights, fewer reps (8-12), and a decent amount of sets (typically 3).
8. Results take time
Absolutely do not get discouraged if you don't drop ten pounds in the first week or two of working out. Waiting to see results is frustrating, but stick with it because it will pay off. Not only does working out help you look good, it'll help you feel good, too. Your health will improve drastically, from blood pressure to heart rate to BMI. You'll be improving and it'll show.
