Do you ever feel guilty for missing a gym day? You’re not alone – but this mindset might be holding you back. The intense gym sessions, daily workouts, and strict routines that many follow is commendable, but not the way to success. Learn why intense gym routines can lead to burnout, and how our Perth based Sista Fitness gym takes a smarter approach to training.
Think of your body like a machine – if you use it often, it runs smoothly, but overuse can cause burn out and problems. Try to apply consistency, discipline, and endurance to your training and exercise regime.
Why is consistency best? Overusing your muscles without time for recovery will likely cause injury and not leave your body with any time to repair. For the best results in the gym, allow your body time to replenish. During recovery periods, the body will repair the microscopic tears in muscle fibre, resulting in muscle growth. Rest is also necessary for avoiding muscle fatigue – your muscles need time to restore their glycogen levels, which are depleted during exercise. “Your muscles need 24-48 hours to repair post strength training,” says our trainer at Sista Fitness Midland.
Intense workouts, with no time for rest, will only leave your body and your mind exhausted! Feeling burnt out, tired and sore, will not help you achieve your fitness goals. Here are some rest days done right:
- Cardio: Light, leisurely walking. This will keep your body moving, but without the intensity. Plus, it is amazing for your mental wellbeing!
- Pilates: A low impact workout, which improves core, strength, posture, balance, and flexibility. A great choice if you want a break from your regular strength training.
- Full Rest Days! Sometimes, doing nothing is exactly what your body needs. And that is okay.
See our group fitness timetable here to plan out your optimal gym routine. The next time you are feeling burnt out, tired, and like you are over-working your body… Remember, the ‘’All or Nothing’’ mindset is not the key to success – consistency is!
| Author: McKenzie Walsh