Each winter I vow to join the gym and get in better shape. I stay very active in the summertime and enjoy biking the rails to trails throughout Prince Edward Island. Like most of you, I walk as often as I can and enjoy physical activity in the great outdoors.
It's December already and today I re-joined the gym. This seems to be a yearly affair I have with the gym. Walking in the front door I almost feel at home, after all I have been working out every winter in this gym for the past 4 years.
Last year I saw a personal trainer, Courtney Steele at Atlantic Fitness East, who designed a customized program for me. As I dig out the program from my gym bag, I remember how good my work outs use to feel. First I hit the weight room as it is always best to stretch before lifting weights. I pick up the dumbbells and perform slow controlled exercises. Can I ever feel the burn; it's been a while since I used those muscles. Weight lifting is like riding a bike, easy to pick up again and very de-stressing.
Next it's off to the cardio section, which seems to be busy as usual. I hop onto a stationary bike and turn up the volume on my MP3 player. A few weeks ago I packed up my bike for the winter, and remember how much I enjoy this physical activity. I cruise for 25 minutes until the elliptical trainer is free. After cleaning the bike off, I run to the elliptical trainer to secure my spot. I only lasted 18 minutes, and could handle no more torture.
To complete my workout I perform a short mat routine. It consists of abdominal exercises, yoga poses and stretching for about 10 minutes. The cool down exercises are my favourite part of the workout. They help to cool down my body and slow down my mind. Exercise can be very de-stressing, especially when I listen to my favourite music.
As I approach the door something made me stop. It's called the lateral pull down machine. It is my favourite weight machine, so I stop and take a seat. I check the weight and it reads 60 pounds, a little too much for me. I down the weight to 30 pounds grab and bar and begin to pull down. I completed 8 pull downs and stormed out of the gym feeling fantastic!
Exercise releases endorphins and increases weight loss. Cardiovascular exercise helps to burn fat, while strength training improves muscle mass and body tone. Muscle burns fat inside of your body so both types of exercise will help you lose weight. Before you begin any gym routine it is always best to see a personal trainer who will design a particular program for you to follow based on your physical goals and needs. Most gyms have personal trainers who can help you reach your weight loss goals. Make sure your trainer is certified and tell them about any prior injuries you may have. Check your gym’s website for more information about personal training sessions.
Stay tuned next week for Part 2 of Rachelle Re-Joins the Gym
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