Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Workouts

Do you sometimes feel like you’re working hard without reaping the rewards? Here’s how to make the most of your workout to boost effectiveness and reach those fitness goals.

Maximize Low-Impact
Use your muscles — not momentum — to transform your body. “Low impact doesn’t mean low intensity,” says Claire La Breche, Training & Development Manager for Jazzercise, Inc. What that means is isolating the muscles and creating resistance. Basically, make your muscles feel like they’re moving through Jello. And if you’re doing a lower body exercise (walking, anyone?!), pump your arms.

Add Intensity with Weights
Don’t be afraid of heavier weights! Fewer reps with higher weights should be your mantra. Weight training builds muscle, and increasing your muscle mass increases how many calories you burn. Win win!

Make Modifications Work for You
Can’t do a full pushup? No problem. Go to your knees or do pushups against the wall instead. And if everyone is skipping and your knees aren’t there yet, try marching in place. Just listen to your body and, as Claire says, “Don’t stop moving!”

Engage Your Core
Contracting your core during exercise encourages better form and protects against injury. Listen to your instructor or coach; chances are, she’ll call out when she wants you to activate your abs. Just remember to engage your core during every exercise. Every. Single. One.

Stay Hydrated
If you’re dehydrated at the start of your workout (hello, three cups of coffee!), you’re more likely to feel dizzy during the workout. Experts say we need at least eight ounces of water every 15 minutes you’re working out. (So that’s why refillable water bottles are 32 ounces!)

Vary Your Workouts
Forget the same old, same old. You don’t eat the same dinner every day. Don’t do the same workout every time. Try power walking outside one day and a group fitness class the next. Your body and mind respond to new environments. After all, variety is the spice of life!

What are your pro tips for getting the most out of your workout time?