From Sharp Health News, a publication of Sharp HealthCare
Many of us do the same regular fitness workout, sticking with what we know — and what is comfortable.
But while consistency and routine are important to any fitness program, mixing up your workout can provide additional benefits to your mind and body.
Reduce risk of injury
It’s OK to do the same workout routine daily if the intensity is not too extreme. Frequency can be a good thing if it’s done safely.
However, varying your workouts can decrease overuse and optimize physical benefits. By mixing up your activities, you give your muscles and joints a chance to rest and recover before working them again.
Break through a weight-loss plateau
If you’ve settled into your fitness routine, you’ll probably notice you’re not making as much progress in improved fitness as you used to. Our bodies adapt to repetition with greater efficiency.
When you vary your workout routine, you use different muscle groups. This introduces a new challenge to specific muscles and allows groups of muscles to work together differently. Muscles require energy and can help you burn more calories.
A varied workout schedule that balances strength and cardio may look like:
- Monday: Run
- Tuesday: Strength train and swim
- Wednesday: Run
- Thursday: Strength train and swim
- Friday: Run
- Saturday: Strength train and swim
- Sunday: Rest
Stay motivated
Changing your workout routine challenges your mind. It keeps your body guessing and prevents boredom. Incorporating new exercises can also keep you motivated.
Instead of moving through the same workout routine you’ve been doing for months, try adding new movements and activities, or try different equipment at the gym. Often, the change can be refreshing and rewarding.
The VEBA Resource Center offers Beginner Strength Training with Resistance Bands classes. Join us for this beginner/all levels class that incorporates low-impact movements and light cardio training to build muscle and burn fat safely using resistance bands. This class allows for gentle progression and modifications. Check out our calendar to sign up for an upcoming class.
