‘Tis the season for new gym memberships. Whether they’re trying to stay true to those New Year’s resolutions, or starting to work on their spring break bodies, plenty of folks are hitting the gym regularly this time of year. And while just putting forth the effort is commendable, it’s important for everyone to approach their workouts correctly to prevent injury, and also to see results. To help you reach your goals, we here at Fitness Gallery would like to offer you some tips on how to avoid several common workout mistakes. 

The gym can be a tricky place, especially for newcomers. It’s important to know how to approach your workouts correctly. Avoiding these common workout mistakes will ensure your time at the gym is as safe and productive as it can be.

Skipping the Warmup

Warming up is critically important for your workout. Particularly when working out in the morning, you need to get your body moving before doing anything strenuous. Jumping Jacks, High-Knees, Jump Rope, even some brisk walking are great ways to get the blood flowing before diving in to your workout. Take the time you need to get warmed up!

Not Stretching

This is another big no-no. Even the most basic workouts require muscles to move and be used in ways not typically in our day to day lives. To prevent some potentially serious injuries you’ve got to take some time to stretch properly. Ease into each stretch in a slow and controlled manner, stretching to full capacity. Most stretches should be held for at least thirty seconds, keeping your breaths deep and steady.

Unrealistic Goals

Setting challenging goals for yourself is important. Goals help keep you motivated and striving toward improvement. However, your goals must still be achievable. It’s easy to plan a long, rigorous workout before stepping foot in the gym, but the execution might not go so well. Constantly setting goals beyond your capability can be discouraging and in some cases dangerous. If you shoot too high, aim a little lower. Likewise, if you achieve your goals too easily, it’s time up to push yourself a little harder. Make the necessary modifications until you find goals that force you to push yourself and that you can feel good about for achieving.

Incorrect Form

Performing exercises incorrectly can hurt your workout (and your body) a great deal. Before attempting any type of workout it’s important to know exactly what muscle groups you’re engaging and the precise motion you’re shooting for. This will help ensure you see the full benefit of the workout while also preventing injury. Likewise, for anything involving lifting it’s important to select the appropriate weight that allows you to keep your form clean. If you can’t do it slow and controlled you’re doing it wrong. And never sacrifice your form for more weight.

Not Eating Right

Sweating it out at the gym isn’t all it takes to get in shape. In fact, a great workout can be almost entirely undone if you don’t adjust your eating habits as well. Nutrition and exercise are about as intertwined as they can be. Protein, carbohydrate, healthy fats, and proper hydration are all essential in making the most out of your workouts.

Common workout mistakes like these can lead to injury and lackluster results at the gym. Here at Fitness Gallery we are committed to helping our customers reach their personal health and fitness goals. To learn more, please visit our online store, or stop by our showrooms in Denver (CO) or Highlands Ranch (CO). Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect equipment for your fitness goals.