By: LECOM Fitness Staff
1. Don’t wait until AFTER your workout
Rewards don’t have to wait. Treat yourself DURING your workout so that exercise doesn’t feel tedious or overwhelming. Rewards during your workout include, working out with a friend for social time, taking your workout outdoors or to an exciting location. More ways to reward yourself include, staying present in the moment by starting and ending with mindful stretches. Add some variety to your workout by trying a new group exercise class featuring a fun activity such as dance, music, cycling, etc.
2. Get a massage
Massage therapy helps support your exercise routine while helping you relax and unwind. A study by researchers from Ohio State University and the University of Pittsburgh found that massage “increases the percentage of regenerating muscle fibers,” especially when done immediately after exercise. In addition, massage helps to treat and prevent injuries, and reduce stress.
3. Rest
After a successful workout rest and relaxation not only help your body recover but your mind. Reading a book, taking a nap, or watching an episode of your favorite tv show can be something to look forward to post workout. Just make sure to set a certain time limit for your rest period for peak productivity.
4. Add a check mark to your calendar
Tracking your progress is a satisfying mental reward. You can mark a big X on the days you work out for visual motivation, earn a reward on your fitness tracker, or view your fitness summary. You don’t have to weigh yourself every day, but simply making a fitness schedule and checking your workout off your to-do list can be rewarding.
5. Purchase some new fitness gear
Dressing for success is not only a good rule of thumb in the corporate world. Workout clothes and shoes have been shown to increase confidence and motivation to workout. Having the appropriate workout clothes also helps to support your exercise results. Breathable fabrics help reduce moisture and keep you cool. Proper shoes for running are important for comfort and support. Plus, you don’t want to reduce your range of motion by tight, ill-fitting clothes.
Remember that each time you work out, you are one step closer to your goals. For a fitness assessment, personal training inquires or any information about our facility, please visit the Member Services Desk.
Reference:
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/massage-can-boost-effectiveness-of-workouts
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