Beginning an exercise routine

When beginning a workout routine, remember, less is more. Listen to your body and go at your own pace. You don't want to work out so hard that you can't come back for weeks because you are so sore.

Hydrate yourself: Drink lots of water before, during and after exercise. It is very important that you replenish your fluids.

Before exercise: Drink 8 to 16 oz of fluids two hours before exercise. During exercise: Drink 4 to 8 oz of fluids during your exercise routine.

After exercise: Replace any fluid you have lost. Drink 16 oz of fluids for every pound of body weight you lose during exercise.

A Complete fitness program must include aerobic exercise, muscle strength conditioning and stretching

Aerobic Exercise: Walking, jogging, dancing, skating and swimming are great forms of aerobic exercise. They work the large muscles in your body, which benefits the cardiovascular system. When you fist begin start off with 10-15 minutes of aerobic exercise 3 times per week and build from there.

Lifting Weights: Lifting weights improves your muscle strength and muscle tone. You also burn fat longer when you weight train. Stronger muscles can help improve your posture and help prevent back problems. Weight training also helps prevent osteoporosis, which is when bones become weak and porous and fracture easily, which can lead to an abundance of other health problems.

Stretching: Stretching helps maintain flexibility and range of motion within the joints. Stretching also helps reduce the risk of energy and sore muscles. It is best to stretch after your workout when your muscles are warm.

Should you eat before you workout?

Many people assume that to lose weight you should exercise on an empty stomach. False. The basic function of food is to provide energy to your body. So, if you exercise on an empty stomach your body will not have the fuel to power your workout. As a result, you will be tired and weaker and will not be able to perform at capacity. You should have a healthy snack before you workout because it raises your metabolic rate and helps you lose weight faster.

Make your plan fit your schedule

Add your workouts to your day planner like you would any important meeting. Adjust workout plan when needed and reschedule immediately.

Try to work out a time when you feel your best. If you are exhausted by 7PM, evening workouts may not be your thing. For many people, getting up and then getting moving works best.. Others prefer getting the day started and taking a break for themselves mid-day. Some of us prefer evenings where exercising is a part of winding down from the day's stress. Select a time during the day that works best for you and use that time to focus only on you.

Pace yourself, but push yourself.

We are thrilled that you have selected Workout Anytime as your gym of choice, and we know you will be thrilled too! Remember, when exercising, a little discomfort is ok, but pain is not ok. Initially, start with 10-12 reps on upper body exercise and 12-15 reps on lower body exercises.