So you’ve decided to do something great for your health and join a health club or fitness center! Making this step puts you on the path to increased health benefits, more confidence, and a body to be proud of. You may have already discovered that it’s easier said than done.

Working out at the gym is a foreign concept to many first-time or new gym goers, and it can be a scary prospect, especially when it feels like all eyes are on you (not to worry, they probably aren’t). It helps to go to the gym armed with some basic tips for success:

Have a plan. You don’t need to spell out a detailed outline of everything you want to accomplish; just know if you are going for a cardio work out or strength training, or if you want to try a little of both. If you are not sure, do a little research with your goal in mind.

Pick something. When you get there, you may feel overwhelmed by the selection of machines. Just pick out the one that looks like it will be fun and easy to manage. Don’t worry about not understanding how to work the equipment – a staff member of the fitness center will be happy to show you. State-of-the-art workout machines give also step-by-step instructions.

Explore. Once you start to get the feel for the layout of the gym, try doing cardio on different equipment, or use your complimentary assessment and session with one of our certified personal trainers. If you ever feel like you are hitting a plateau in your workouts, getting tips from someone with years of expertise and knowledge can really make the difference you are looking for.

Go slow. Now that you’ve gotten to the gym, it’s tempting to try and make up for lost time in one fell swoop. Overdoing workouts is a good way to get injured or fall ill. Start off with 20 minutes of moderate exercise if you are new to working out, and gradually add time and intensity. Our fitness club in Woodstock, Georgia has a circuit training area that can help you take the baby steps necessary towards more productive strength training workouts. This area is organized in a circle with directions posted on the wall, so that even a beginner can utilize these machines and reap the amazing benefits of strength training.

Stay hydrated. Remember those health goals you are setting. Adding water is just one easy way to stay healthy. It is especially important to remember water on your new excursions to the gym, as you will be losing more water by sweating.

Trying something new is always a challenge. Remember why you have chosen to start going to the gym and remember to be proud of yourself for making such a sound choice for your health. Stay confident in your ability to learn the ins and outs of the gym, and that confidence will go a long way in seeing you achieve your goals.

“Don’t be intimidated by the gym”
By: American Bodyworks

In good health…
Caleb,
Manager of American Body Works Fitness Center in Woodstock, GA.

www.WoodstockHealthClub.com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/CalebJones

How to Get Rid of Belly Fat Fast and Easy

By Caleb Jones

“Frustrated With That Stubborn Belly Fat?”

Excess belly fat, more than any other excess body fat, has been linked to an alarming number of diseases. Most recently, it has been linked to decreased lung function, several cancers, stroke, heart disease, type-2 diabetes, and other serious ailments.

No matter what you hear, there is no magic pill, diet or routine that will only zap belly fat. All fat loss occurs through our metabolism and depends on the amount of calories we consume versus what we use. The good news is that studies have shown that belly fat is the first fat to be targeted during weight loss. Due to the type of fat stored and the body’s ability to burn this type of fat first, it is likely that you will burn a higher proportion of belly fat than fat from anywhere else. By joining a fitness center you will have the convenience you need to jump start your fat loss!

So what can you do to beat belly fat? Have a sound diet and fitness plan. Studies clearly show that a diet rich in whole grains (instead of refined white flour grains), five or more servings of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat dairy is better able to help the body burn stored fat. The replacement of whole grains for refined grains has been shown to boost the body’s glucose response rate, making it a critical component of a dietary change. Look for packages that say 100% whole grain or 100% whole wheat. Always read the ingredients for these things. If it has white flour (bleached or unbleached refined flour) put it back!

You also need to incorporate activity into your life. One of the most proven ways to consistently do this is to join a health club, like a 24/7 fitness club. It takes 3500 calories to burn 1 pound of fat. You can create a fitness plan that aims to zap 1-2 pounds per week and increases your overall metabolic rate — which will make your body burn more calories while you rest.

As usual, the best advice is to combine diet and exercise to take the pounds off at a healthful rate. Changing habits will sustain a long-term weight loss, and prevent the dreaded yo-yo effect.

In good health…

Caleb

American Bodyworks 24/7 fitness Woodstock, Ga

www.WoodstockHealthClub.com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/CalebJones

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