5 Minutes to a Better Body
November 21, 2008
It’s the 5 minutes bfeore you start to exercise that can make the difference between an ordinary workout and a super-charged routine. Read on to discover the secrets to a better body by using your mind.
Controlled breathing.
Whether you arrive at the gym ready to go or you need to change in the locker room, use the few minutes as you arrive or change to breathe deeply and controlled. If you arrived in a rush and tense, breathing will calm you, get increased oxygen into your muscles and give you more energy.
Tune in your brain.
We often fit our workouts in between other impoortant things in our busy lives, and so the mind may still be on what we just did or what we will do later. Take a few minutes to calm your mind, squeeze out thoughts other than exercise and think of what you want to achieve from the session to come. You will start out more relaxed and will increase the benefits you receive from the workout.
Forward planning.
Get the maximum benefit from your gym session by planning exactly what your routine will be before you hit the gym. If possible, write it down as this helps to tune the brain into what you are going to achieve. Forward planning increases motivation and time management, and allows more workout time because you don’t have to stop and think what you need to do next. Because you have your routine all in your mind, you will be able to focus on the correct technique.
Visualize.
All top athletes and sports superstars know the benefits of visualization before a big game or race and research has shown that greater results can be achieved by using this strategy. Get your subconscious mind working with you to improve your performance and maximize your results. Actively visualizing each part of your routine prepares your muscles for exercise by increasing oxygen and blood flow and raises your level of awareness and concentration.
Water.
People who exercise when they are hydrated burn more calories in a workout than those who are not. Drinking suficient water also helps you exercise for longer – approximately 1/3 more, because dehydration is one of the causes of fatigue. Water helps to remove toxins from muscles and tissues to enable them to work more efficiently. Drink approximately 16 ounces of water up to 30 minutes before your session to get the most from your workout.


























