Gym Exercise Guide

     

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Gym Exercise Guide

Overview

The gym is a playground for your body. Fitness gyms offer a variety of equipment such as traditional weight lifting machines, cable based machines, dumbbells, barbells and even the space to do body weight exercises. Learn how to use exercise guides properly to create an effective and customized workout program.

The Facts

A 2010 study published in the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" revealed that during long term training, traditional "periodized" programs are more effective than randomized training programs. A periodized program uses the principles of exercise science and kinesiology to manipulate the number of reps, sets, exercise positions and rest intervals to elicit changes in muscular strength, endurance and aesthetic gains, such as weight loss and muscular definition.

Benefits

Exercise guides published by reputable fitness magazines, books and websites incorporate principles of periodization. Your gym exercise guide can be customized to meet your goals based on your age, fitness level, performance goals and the style of exercise that you enjoy most. Review the background of the fitness professional who designed your exercise guide before implementing it into your weekly fitness routine. Exercise schedules also vary based on the amount of time you can commit to the program. The best exercise guides will have a two to six day commitment schedule.

Misconceptions

One size does not fit all for exercise guides. A common misconception is that there is a certain exercise that is the "best" for working a particular muscle group. The most effective exercise program should incorporate a variety of different exercises to challenge your muscles in different ways.

Warning

Review the exercise guide thoroughly to identify the equipment needed, the recommended fitness level and the proper alignment for your body. Take the exercise guide with you to the gym and perform the exercises in front of the mirror to make sure you are executing the exercise correctly. Talk to a trainer in your gym if you have questions about an exercise to avoid injury.

Considerations

In 2001, the American College of Sports Medicine revealed that it takes four to six weeks to markedly improve your fitness. Make a plan to commit to your exercise program and a healthy diet for at least four to six weeks. Nutrition plays a vital role in your ability to increase strength and lose weight. Eat breakfast every day, drink lots of water and incorporate lean meats, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts, into your diet every day.

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com