We are surrounded by countless distractions that keep us from focusing on our health and well-being in today’s society. And while it is important to have a balance in life, it is also crucial to keep up with our fitness.
Strength training can be anything you want it to be: jogging, weight lifting, yoga, or dancing. Different forms of this exercise will help you tone muscles and stay healthy. It’s never too late for anyone to start strength training because there are more benefits than negatives.
However, there are a few things you need to know before anything else. Below are the essentials you might need and some tips to help you get started.
Pack your Exercise Attire
You want something comfortable that won’t restrict your movement when it comes to exercise attire. Loose-fitting clothes are ideal, as well as sneakers or other supportive shoes. You might also want to consider preparing an extra set for garments as you will need a change of clothes after your routines.
Many people, especially women, prefer to work out in sports bras and tank tops. You can buy these at sporting goods stores and even online. For men, a simple T-shirt and shorts should suffice.
Before your workout, stretch out a little to ensure that you fit in your clothes and won’t get distracted by them during your exercise.
Invest in the Right Equipment
Strength training involves using resistance to make your muscles function. Dumbbells are the most common form of weight used for this exercise. You can use them individually or together in sets.
Another essential tool for your routine is a weight bench, which supports your back while doing reps (repetitions). You can get one with removable leg attachments that allow you to use your body weight for resistance.
If you cannot afford the equipment, there are other alternatives you can make use of. These can be household items like jugs filled with water or sand. You could also visit a local gym for fees if necessary.
Prepare the Necessary Recovery Tools
After a strenuous workout, you will need to take care of your body to ensure proper recovery. It means stretching out your muscles and drinking plenty of fluids.
You might want to have a cold pack on hand, especially if you are experiencing any pain or soreness. It can help reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process.
Another way to recover is through foam rollers. This tool is designed to mimic a massage by releasing tension. You can use it anytime, even before you start your exercises.
Incorporate Supplements on Your Diet
Nutrition supplements can help your body recover and build new lean muscles. But, you will need to understand how these supplements work to use them effectively in your routine.
Protein can help you build more muscles in a shorter time since it is very high in amino acids. It’s important, though, to only take the amount recommended for your body. There are many protein supplements, and it’s up to you to decide which one best suits your needs. However, experts recommend whey protein concentrate for those looking to build their muscles fast.
You might also want to consider creatine, which is crucial for your body’s ability to produce energy. It can be taken in tablet form or mixed with drinks for convenience. Creatine works by helping you achieve more reps during your workouts and shortens the amount of time it takes for your muscles to recover.
Miscellaneous Accessories
Aside from the above essentials, you’ll need other accessories to help you fit your routine. Here are some of them:
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is important when it comes to building muscles. You will need to drink at least six to eight glasses of water every day, especially during strenuous workouts that can cause dehydration.
Towel
Small towels to wipe away your sweat should be within your arm’s reach when exercising.
You can also use a towel to wrap around your neck on days when you feel particularly sore, which will keep the blood flowing while helping reduce pain.
Fitness Watch
No more guessing how many reps or sets you have done during your routine with a workout watch. Not only does it help you time yourself for better results, but it also tracks your heart rate.
Fitness Mats
Fitness mats are necessary if you are doing your workouts at home. It’s good to have these to cushion your back against hard surfaces or protect yourself from falling on slippery floors.
With all the essentials in place, now it’s time for you to sweat it out! Getting the right items will help you make the most of your workouts and achieve your desired results.
