Everyone who uses a gym has a goal. Some are looking to build huge muscles, others want to be as cut as possible, but most just want to improve their health. This post is for anyone who wants to know how to make consistent progress using weights and cardio-vascular exercise.
Workout 2 gives a good idea of what exercises to focus on. This post is about how to continue making gains in the gym after the first few weeks have been conquered.
Cardio doesn’t really ever change
The rules for cardio are solid. As a personal trainer I would recommend no more than 30 minutes 5 days a week. Use a treadmill, bike, run, do a few cardio classes, but do not get carried away. Too much cardio will put a definite hold on your progress. It cuts down on your ability to recover and also burns muscle if over done.
Weight training is the most important
Your metabolism is completely dependent on the amount of muscle you have compared to fat. Because of this fact, if you are not lifting weights you are not taking advantage your body’s greatest asset, your muscles.
Where do you start?
If you are trying to increase your metabolism, the best place to start is 12 rep sets. So a typical exercise should look something like:
- 4 Sets for 12 Repetitions each
- Try to find a weight where you can barely finish the 12th rep
- Stick with a routine for 2 to 3 weeks
- After 2 to 3 weeks change the exercises or attempt to do a little more weight
Bottom line
Slowly, every 2 to 3 weeks, increase weight used for gains in muscle and tone. Cardio is also important, but if you do too much it will halt your progress.
Next Time: Workout 3, New Exercises
See you then…
Hager Training 