15 Sep Best Workout Tips: Part II

Continuing with our Best Workout Tips today, here are some more suggestions to maximize your fitness regimen.
Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or even advanced fitness guru, you can always learn workout tips that can help you be even more efficient in your training.
* Power up your cardio – Maximize your time by using light weights during your cardio session. Hold a 3- or 5-pound dumbbell in each hand while on the treadmill for a 10-minute brisk walk workout. Alternate doing a one-minute set of shoulder presses, biceps curls, triceps extensions, side laterals, front laterals and standing triceps kickbacks one after another as you walk.
This is a tough challenge that will change things up for you and really get your heart pumping. Add more time to each set as you get in better shape.
* Stay loose during your work day – Sit on an exercise ball while at your desk to strengthen your core.
If your work and-or time allows it, keep dumbbells or exercise tubing at your desk, too, to work in some reps. Take walks on your breaks, take the stairs, park farther from the door and don’t sit too long.
* Plan meals ahead of time – The easiest way to fall off a diet is to not have a meal plan set in advance. I know for me, I’m most likely to go through a drive-thru for fast food if I’m in a hurry and know there’s nothing in the fridge at home. Have a meal plan in advance and it never hurts to freeze leftovers or meals ahead of time to have them accessible in an instant.
* Set yourself up for success – If you have existing workout equipment, get it tuned up. That could mean cleaning it and inspecting your treadmill or home gym or calling a service man or fitness company to make any needed repairs. Get your music in order that will help inspire you during workouts. You could also take stock in what equipment you have and make a decision to add a new piece or pieces to get you going.

At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen’s blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people’s lives. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at aaron@athomefitness.com