Trainer Tip Tuesday #8: Make time for yourself

In order to live a healthy life sure you need to eat healthy and stay active, but I have come to realize that I need to eliminate all stress as well. Eating healthy and exercising makes me feel good but when I am stressed or anxious I tend to get run-down, I sleep less, and I end up getting sick.

I have found it is important to treat myself. Some days all I need is 10 minutes to flip through a magazine and clear my head.

Other days, taking some time out of my weekend to go to the nail salon and get a pedicure makes me feel great!

Believe it or not, reading educational fitness & health material and blogging always helps too! I zone out when I read because I am focusing incredibly hard on the information I am learning.

Of course my #1 way to eliminate stress is to exercise.

It does wonders for me

Especially when you have someone fun to work out with!!

 Even a short walk outside with my buddy Cooper can do the trick.

Of course hanging out with friends and going on a vacation with Marc is ideal but those aren’t always options!

SOO….The point of this point is to remind you to MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF TODAY! 

What are some ways you treat yourself?

How do you eliminate stress?

For more of my Trainer Tips check our my previous posts:

Trainer Tip #7: Get more out of your Group Fitness Class

Trainer Tip #6  Choose exercise that you enjoy doing

Trainer Tip #5 Quality vs Quantity

Trainer Tip #4 Lift a little heavier

Trainer Tip #3 A short workout is better then no workout

Trainer Tip #2 Exercising outdoors

Trainer Tip Tuesday #1: If you don’t like an exercise, start doing it!

Trainer Tip Tuesday #7: Get more out of your group fitness class

Here are some tips to make the most out of your group fitness class:

1. Introduce yourself to the instructor. If you are new to the class let the instructor know. They can demonstrate any new exercises to you, as well as keep an eye on your form through-out the workout.
2. Listen to the instructor’s cues. I can’t stress this one enough. Some of us are visual learners, but it is important to listen to what your instructor is saying. Those little tips will improve your form, strength, and will motivate you to finish your workout.
3. Ask questions. Don’t hold back, if you are confused about something or are unsure if you are performing the exercise right, ASK! That is what the instructor is there for.
4. Don’t hold back! if you partner or neighbor isn’t as quick or strong as you, don’t go at their pace. Push and challenge yourself to get stronger. If you are taking a strength training class, listen to your body.. if something is too easy try increasing the weights or repetitions so you get stronger!
5. Make your fitness class a priority. If you love your class, make sure to keep it on your schedule so that it becomes part of your daily routine. Going to a class 1x per week is not enough!

What is your favorite Group fitness class to take or teach?

Do you prefer an instructor that is in your face or one who is educational but motivating? 

For more of my Trainer Tips check our my previous posts:

Trainer Tip #6  Choose exercise that you enjoy doing

Trainer Tip #5 Quality vs Quantity

Trainer Tip #4 Lift a little heavier

Trainer Tip #3 A short workout is better then no workout

Trainer Tip #2 Exercising outdoors

Trainer Tip Tuesday #1: If you don’t like an exercise, start doing it!

IF YOU DON’T LIKE AN EXERCISE, START DOING IT!

My guess is if you don’t like an exercise you are weak at it, therefore you probably avoid it at all causes!

Here are the Top 3 exercises my clients TRY to avoid:

1. PULL-UPS
2. PUSHUPS
3. BURPEES

Do you notice anything about these exercises???

They are all body weight! These 3 exercises challenge your body by incorporating multiple muscle groups and WILL make you stronger the more you work at them. If you don’t know how to perform any of these exercises don’t hesitate to ask a trainer at your gym.

Step outside of your comfort zone!