With Christmas around the corner it won’t be long before we start thinking about New Year’s Resolutions. One of the most common resolutions is to get in shape. I know it’s on my list for 2011. I seem to really enjoy exercising for about 3 months and then suddenly I can’t get back into the groove and take 3 months off. In 2011, I’d like to be much more consistent with my workouts. I enjoy watching Jillian Michaels on Biggest Loser and on Losing it With Jillian. I find her no-nonsense, motivational, and inspiring.
She’s compiled a list of 10 Fitness Tips to help encourage us all to strive to be in better shape in 2011.
Fitness Tips by Jillian Michaels
1. Exercise does more than just tone your body, it boosts self esteem, improves mood and revs up metabolism. So suck it up and get moving!
2. If you are looking to shed those last stubborn pounds, you need to increase the intensity of your workouts. Try working at 85% of your Maximum Heart Rate for optimal results.
3. Getting bored with that same old exercise routine? Chances are you body is too. It’s probably time to switch things up if you want to continue seeing results.
4. Using proper form when working out is the key to getting the results you want and preventing injuries. Think quality over quantity. Take the time to perfect your form in order to get the results you want and keep your body healthy and strong.
5. Do not exercise on an empty stomach. This way you’ll have energy during your workouts and you will burn fat instead of muscle.
6. Don’t over do it. When starting out consult your physician. Work to beginner / intermediate levels. Stay at around 70% of your MHR. IN a couple of weeks or so as you become stronger and more fit begin to up your intensity for best results.
7. For results fast try circuit training. This is an exercise technique that utilizes a series of moves in swift succession with no rest in between. For example: Push ups into squats followed by jumping jacks. This method allows your workouts to strengthen while burning fat at the same time.
8. To ramp up your fitness regimen try incorporating a technique called HIIT or High Intensity Interval Training. This simply means working short bouts (30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, 2 minutes) of cardio into your strength training routine.
9. Six pack abs are not about crunches. You simply CAN NOT spot reduce fat. The best way to get the washboard tummy is by burning the fat off on top of the muscle with a combination of diet, cardio, and over all resistance training.
10. When you are on the treadmill don’t hold on. If you hold on while walking or jogging it decreases the intensity thus decreasing your calorie burn by up to 24%
I hope to incorporate all of these tips in 2011 as I work towards getting back in shape.
What about you? What will your New Year’s Resolutions be for 2011?
Great tips my other loves watching the biggest looser. x
I am really going to have to buckle down and drop some weight. I’ve been letting my diet slide way too much!!!
great tips and thanks for sharing… especially the fact that you can’t get abs by doing millions of crunches!! and that spending hours on a cardio machine aren’t going to do it!!