So i am joining a gym. This was what I was planning to do when I go there;
STRETCHHH.
1. Jog there (like a mile) (with my waterrr bottle!)
2. Do some core on the machines
3. Do a "cool down" i guess on the ..biking machines?
4. go into the steam room
Does this sound good? Should I stretch afterward too? Any suggestions would be helpful
The only thing you might want to consider, is a warm up. I know the jogging itself might be a warm up, but try walking at first and then jogging. For some other tips:
* MAKE SURE to stretch REALLY well before your workout.
Stretching after a workout is usually a good idea, too. Also, if you feel stiff or sore at any point DURING your actual work out, make sure to stop and stretch the area that's hurting.
Like said below, diet will also be a huge factor. You need to make sure you're eating healthy and getting all the nutrients you need. For more help:
Alin75 answered Saturday February 28 2009, 7:56 am: Toning is a very ambiguous concept. In reality you can 1. put on/ lose muscle or 2. put on/ lose fat.
To gain definition (which is what most people mean by toning) you need to either lower your body fat or gain muscle mass... or both.
Anyhow, I have a few comments irrespective of your goals. First I would rather start with the resistance training, after a short warmup, then move to the cardio. If you want good results I would recommend intaking a protein source right after the cardio. Remember resistance training breaks down your muscles and they need the right building blocks to super compensate.
Second, unless you have some injuries that prevent you from using them, try to use free weights as much as possible. I know girls (I assume you're are female?) have an aversion to them, but they are better for you in every way. They produce better results, they train supporting muscles, they dont expose you to the risk of overtraining in the same way, and the strength you get is more useful. Also remember to train opposing muscle groups (e.g. stomach and lower back, quads and hamstrings, etc).
Beyond this, your diet will regulate what your results will be. If you eat a calorie surplus you will put on some weight, if you eat a calorie deficit you will lose some. Just in case I am right and you are a girl, do not be afraid of what I call putting on weight. Muscle gain is excruciatingly slow for women and their common fear of becoming muscle bound is totally unfounded.
As for stretching, that's a good idea after your resistance training routine.
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