Not all exercises require the same number of sets. Prioritizing your goals will help you determine which muscle groups or exercises need the most attention, and which need simply to be maintained.
Posts Tagged TRAINING
Change the Number of Sets
Jan 12
Change the Exercise Order
Jan 10
Plan the order in which you do your exercises as seriously as you plan the exercises themselves.
Try alternating between muscle groups–e.g., doing elbow curls (arms) followed by knee extensions (legs)–or “stacking” all the exercises for one muscle group (i.e., performing them consecutively). A third possibility is to start with the exercises of greatest priority to you and follow them with exercises of lesser importance.
Change Your Exercises
Jan 6
Many fitness experts believe you should change your program at least every four to six weeks for maximum effectiveness. The muscle groups to be trained (based on your goals) should determine the type of exercises you perform.
Before you begin a periodized strength training program, complete four to 12 weeks of basic training. Use this training to develop general conditioning and practice proper form and technique.
If you’re only working out to get a slim physique, you might be missing the bigger picture.
Not only will regular exercise help you slip into your skinny jeans, it also helps protect and enhance your immune system. Some studies have shown that a regular exercise program can improve the defenses of the immune system.
The good news is that you don’t need to work out for hours on end to see the benefits. Low to moderate levels of aerobic activity, such as brisk walking for 20 to 30 minutes per day, can help protect your immune system.
There are several theories that attempt to explain the link between regular exercise and enhanced immunity:
- Working out may help flush bacteria from the body.
- Exercise sends defensive cells and antibodies at a faster rate through the body, which means they could potentially detect trouble earlier and “warn” other parts of the body.
- The rise in body temperature may prevent bacterial growth.
- Stress-related hormones are slowed down. Stress has been known to weaken the immune system.
People with the most to gain from adopting healthy exercise habits are those who go from a sedentary lifestyle to a moderate level of activity, so don’t think you can’t benefit if you aren’t currently active. No matter where you are in your fitness level, find ways to be active every day for your immune and overall health.
