When you’ve been sticking to a workout routine for a while, it’s only natural to expect results from all your hard work. However, sometimes you might need to change things up a bit to get where you want to be, especially if you have loftier goals.
Since the world of health and fitness is such a big one, it can be a lot to figure out your next best move. Here are three ways to consider taking your workouts to the next level.
1. Focus on Interval Workouts
If your current exercise routine doesn’t involve interval workouts, this could be the missing piece to the puzzle.
Commonly referred to as HIIT (high-intensity interval training), this type of exercise focuses on intense bursts of exertion followed by brief rest periods. This movement pattern encourages muscle growth and a solid cardio workout at the same time.
Because these workouts are strenuous, supporting your body is important. This is where supplements such as pre-workout or protein powders come in. What’s tricky here is figuring out which product(s) to use, especially because there are so many to choose from.
Chances are you have some questions. Maybe you’re concerned about Creatine side effects or you’re unsure as to if you should supplement before or after your workouts. Some quick research can help guide you here. As with all supplements, check with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns before incorporating them into your routine.
2. Increase Your Daily Steps
When it comes to your fitness, there are so many ways you can raise the bar. Did you know that one of the simplest ways to go about it is to increase your steps each day? It’s true — consistent movement adds up, even if it doesn’t seem like much at the time.
Aside from the obvious swaps such as taking the stairs or snagging a far spot in the parking lot, try adding in a couple of bonus walks throughout the day in addition to your routine workout. If you have a dog or kids, make time to play with them through nature walks or a game of tag. Another way could be taking extra trips up and down the stairs at your house throughout the day. Remember that it doesn’t have to be orchestrated to be effective.
There is always room for movement, you just need to be intentional about it. Getting a step tracker or a fitness watch would help you keep track of your improvements and also notice any sedentary patterns.
3. Work With a Trainer
There are certain times when handing the reins over to a professional is the way to go. Whether it’s due to a lack of experience, time, or motivation, sometimes it just makes sense to outsource. And when you want to bring your fitness to the next level, a trainer could be exactly what you need to reach your goals.
It could be that you’re in a fitness rut, that you’re recovering from an injury, or that you need more accountability. Maybe you’re working towards something big, such as a race or another competition and want to make sure you’re doing all the right things. Whatever your reasoning, it can’t hurt to try working with a trainer.
However, trainers can be very expensive, which doesn’t make them accessible to everyone. An excellent alternative is online workout programs or accountability groups. There are so many options for all fitness levels and budgets, making adding more structure to your fitness routine a reality. You could become a certified fitness coach as well, learning as you go. There are so many possibilities.
Taking your fitness to the next level is not a small feat, but it’s absolutely possible. You just need to stay focused and remember why you’re doing it, making adjustments along the way as needed. Having this support throughout your journey will make all the difference.