You want to get fit but are short on time—what can you do? The good news is, there are ways to optimize your workouts and get the most efficient and effective training no matter how much time you have (or don’t!). Today, we’ll look at some practical tips and strategies for maximizing your workouts you won’t want to miss.
Tips for Maximizing Your Workouts
These six fitness tips will help you get the most out of each workout.
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Do a dynamic warmup
A dynamic warmup is the perfect way to start your workout on the right foot, especially when you’re short on time.
This means doing exercises that get your muscles moving and increase your heart rate slowly to prepare you for more intense exercise. Examples include jogging, jumping jacks, bodyweight squats, and walking lunges with rotation.
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Try compound exercises
Compound exercises (or multi-joint exercises) are one of the most effective ways to get more bang for your buck. They involve using multiple muscles simultaneously and are typically more intense than isolation exercises (which focus on one muscle group).
Examples of compound exercises include squats, deadlifts, push-ups, and pull-ups. You can create an effective workout in less time by doing these kinds of exercises rather than isolation movements (such as bicep curls or leg extensions).
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Focus on form and technique
Proper form is critical when optimizing your workouts, whether you’re short on time or have hours to spare. Focus on proper alignment and technique to ensure you’re getting the most out of each exercise. That means engaging the right muscles during movement, avoiding excessive joint stress or strain, setting up the right posture, and ensuring you breathe correctly.
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Do intervals
Interval training involves alternating periods of intense exercise and more moderate activity within a set time frame. This helps you maximize the intensity of your workout while still allowing you to maintain good form and technique.
For example, if you’re short on time, try doing 30 seconds of high-intensity exercise (sprints or burpees) followed by 60 seconds of low-intensity exercise (walking or bodyweight squats).
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Fuel up
Without adequate fuel, your workouts simply won’t be as effective, and you won’t be able to perform at your best. So, eat a balanced meal (or snack) of carbs and protein before your workout, and have a snack or small meal after—this will help ensure you have enough energy for an intense session.
Some easy options for carbs before a workout include toast, oatmeal, yogurt, and fruit. And for protein, eggs, nuts/nut butter, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt are good options. Nothing beats a protein shake with a banana for a fantastic balance of protein and carbohydrates when you’re short on time.
Here are some of the highest protein foods to keep on hand.
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Work with a personal trainer in San Antonio
Personal trainers in San Antonio know all the ins and outs of maximizing workouts. At Xtend Fitness, our trainers will help you create a personalized personal training plan and guide you on proper form and technique.
They’ll also teach you about recovery strategies, goal setting, nutrition, and more—all so you can get the most out of each workout session.
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Workouts with Xtend Fitness
With Xtend Fitness by your side, you’ll be able to reach your fitness goals faster than ever before – and have fun while doing it! Our dedicated trainers are here to help you maximize efficiency in every workout for maximum results. So whether you do our online training, in-person personal training in San Antonio, or attend one of our group classes, we’ll help you achieve your fitness goals, whatever they might be.
Experience the Xtend difference today!
