How to prepare for the gym

Consider these tips when preparing to go to the gym.

1. Eat for fuel

In general, depending on you digestive tendencies, eating a light snack an hour before workout time, should provide you with an adequate amount of energy.

Some people may find they have an upset stomach if they eat before a workout, but that is why light snacks are considered best.

Take your pick between these snacks before a workout:

– Toast with peanut butter

– Bananas

– Apples

– Oranges

– A protein shake or bar

2. Drink enough water

Hydration requirements hinge on variables like age, gender, weight, height, and the intensity of your workouts. But as a guideline, try drinking approximately 500ml to 1L of water around one to two hours before your workout session.

Be careful not to drink too much water right before you go to the gym, you don’t want to take too many bathroom breaks.

Drinking enough water will help to avoid muscle cramps and dizziness.

3. Supplements

Not all people who go to gym, take supplements. In fact, if you’re new to exercising, and you’re just looking to have a good time, don’t bother with supplements at all.

If you’re interested in supplements, have a trustworthy health care provider explain the process of focus and energy it will provide.

4. Work with a workout tracker

If you’re in the gym every day to see results, be sure to download an app, or record your progress on paper.

Record information like weight, sets and rest periods to get a clear picture of your progress.

5. Warm-up

Warming up before a rigorous workout can only do your muscles good.

A well-designed warm-up increases muscle temperature, core temperature and blood flow. Warm up exercises include doing low-to-moderate exercising on a treadmill, rowing machine or bike.

6. Make a playlist

Anybody who works out at a gym can tell you that they enjoy working out more with accompanying music to keep them on track.

Favourite music while working out has shown to pump up the pace and keep people focussed on the goal.

7. Stay hydrated while exercising

It is just as important to continue drinking water while at the gym as drinking enough fluids before.

Taking a break every now and then to have a drink of water can only assist your body.

8. Keep it hygienic

Remember to take a sweat towel to the gym. You’ll notice many signs urging people to comply with the sweat towel rule.

It’s no secret that people sweat while they’re in a gym, and they sweat a lot. Wipe away your sweat so the next person can use a clean machine.

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