There is so much advice out there when it comes to getting in a good workout, that it is very easy for a woman to get confused about what is hype and what has been proven to be accurate. Here is a list of 7 common workout mistakes women make that hinder their weight loss goals.
1- Expecting Instant Results
Speaking of faster results, don’t expect to look like a supermodel overnight. Remember, you didn’t gain the weight overnight. It takes dedication and patience along with a healthy diet to achieve optimal results. Give your body the time it requires to make progress.
2-Not Lifting Heavy Weights
For some reason, women have it in their minds that if they lift heavy weights, they will get big and bulky like a man. For making muscles, testosterone is required and the level of testosterone in women is much lower than men. Women are built differently than men and the little testosterone that is excreted normally from ovaries, is just enough to build attractive muscles. A testosterone or steroid supplement would have to be consumed for you to achieve big masculine muscles. There are few natural ways to boost testosterone levels naturally.
3- Not Adjusting The Weight Machines
Now that you are clear on what weight lifting can do for your body, you also need to make sure that you are using the machines properly. Most women are already so intimidated by the weight machines,they consider it an accomplishment that they actually got on the machine and performed the movements. They do not take the time to adjust the machine for their bodies. The machines are not one size fits all. Take the time to sit on the machine and adjust it if needed, before performing your repetitions.
4- Attempting To Spot Reduce
Many women are not happy with a specific area of their body. If a woman is unhappy with her abdominal area, she may focus her workout on sit-ups and crunches. If she is unhappy with her butt, she may tend to focus her workout on squats. This is the wrong approach to targeting problem areas. It is impossible to spot reduce when it comes to weight loss and though crunches and squats may be included in any quality workout, you must work the whole body for the best results, even the areas you are happy with.
5- Not Adding Variety
Yes, be proud of yourself if you went to the gym everyday this week. However, if your workouts only consist of running on the treadmill or another type of cardio, you may be short changing yourself. It is absolutely imperative that women switch it up a little bit or they will hit a plateau. Add strength training to your workout and you will see results faster.
6- Eating Poorly
Some women think that since they are working out, it is a free pass to enjoy all of their favorite foods all the time. This is simply not the case. You can undo your entire workout with a plate of pasta and garlic bread. You must eat a healthy diet to get the best results. Eat a balanced diet, as free of processed foods as you can. For a list of foods you need to eat before and after workout, click here.
7- Not Staying Hydrated
A woman’s body needs water to perform the way it should. Sports drinks are fine in some instances, but never underestimate the value of plain water. Shoot for consuming about half your weight in ounces of water per day. For instance if you are 160 pounds, ensure that you get at least 80 ounces of water a day.
If you are a woman who is having problems reaching your weight loss goals, keep this list in mind the next time you workout. Try using some of the tips suggested and you may see faster progress.
