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How do I Choose the Best Gym Exercises?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

To choose the best gym exercises that meet your individual goals, make an assessment of what areas of the body you would like to focus on. This may mean toning and strengthening. Then choose an exercise or machine that specifically targets these areas to achieve your goals. If your primary goal is to lose weight, any cardiovascular activity such as aerobics will help you.

To put together successful gym workout routines, you may want to enlist a fitness expert or personal trainer. Many fitness centers and gyms offer programs that may be individually designed for your unique needs. Try contacting your local center or fitness club for more details on such programs.

Elevated risers are great for working calves, quads and glutes.
Elevated risers are great for working calves, quads and glutes.

If you aren't inclined to work with a personal trainer, you can design your own fitness program with gym exercises to meet your goals. Before you begin, it is advisable to have a physical examination and the approval of your doctor. For a cardio workout, basically any exercise that increases your heart rate will provide benefits. This may include the use of equipment such as a treadmill, elliptical trainer, or stationary bike. Aerobic dancing, kickboxing, or even karate may be beneficial for you as well.

Karate is an excellent form of exercise.
Karate is an excellent form of exercise.

It's a good idea to cross train and not limit yourself to one or two exercises. If you stick to one exercise, boredom may prevent you from staying motivated, and you also may reach a plateau. This means that after some amount of time your body may become accustomed to that one physical activity and you will not achieve further results. If this should happen, it's essential to take a short break from your gym exercises, and re-think your plan.

A treadmill provides a good cardio workout.
A treadmill provides a good cardio workout.

Adding variety and mixing up your routine will help you avoid any halt to your progress. This may mean spending 30 minutes on an elliptical, then another 30 on a treadmill, or concentrating on one machine for your entire workout, then focusing on another piece of equipment the next day.

If you want to incorporate gym exercises to tone your legs, thighs, and buttocks, a stair climber, elliptical, or even a treadmill may provide results. Gradually increase the incline and resistance if applicable. It's best not to overdo workouts, however. Listen to your body and follow the guidelines.

Kickboxing is a fantastic gym exercise.
Kickboxing is a fantastic gym exercise.

Resistance bands are a great and inexpensive piece of equipment that can be used for many gym exercises as well. Doing an online search may provide some helpful exercises for toning and strengthening arms and shoulders. Use good judgment and always warm up before doing your exercises. This will prevent injury. Gentle stretching is generally a good way to warm and prepare your muscles for the work ahead.

One crucial factor as you strive for success is to stay hydrated during your exercise routine and after. Drinking plenty of water will help your body recover from the loss of fluids. Electrolyte replacement is also essential for optimum results.

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    • Elevated risers are great for working calves, quads and glutes.
      By: william87
      Elevated risers are great for working calves, quads and glutes.
    • Karate is an excellent form of exercise.
      By: Vladislav Gajic
      Karate is an excellent form of exercise.
    • A treadmill provides a good cardio workout.
      By: starush
      A treadmill provides a good cardio workout.
    • Kickboxing is a fantastic gym exercise.
      By: Monteleone
      Kickboxing is a fantastic gym exercise.
    • Gym exercise may include using a machine that specifically targets the areas you want to be your focus.
      By: Igor Mojzes
      Gym exercise may include using a machine that specifically targets the areas you want to be your focus.