Before hitting the gym, create a workout plan ahead of time. If you want more confidence, motivation or direction when attending the gym, try creating a workout plan. Having a detailed plan before you hit the gym has various benefits because it can help you:
1. Even out your workouts
Scheduling workouts in advance allows you to plan what exercises you will be doing each day of the week and cover all the different fitness areas. Here's an example of a weekly schedule:
- Monday: Upper body and cardio
- Tuesday: Core and legs
- Wednesday: Alternate upper body and cardio
- Thursday: Rest
- Friday: Total body workout
- Saturday: High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Sunday: Rest
2. Keep going
Knowing you have a schedule to stick to can be a great way to ensure you keep attending the gym. Missing more than the occasional day at the gym becomes a bigger deal as it messes with your entire regime. Try to give scheduled gym time the same priority you would a date or plans with friends!
3. Make the most of your time
This point is particularly significant for individuals with a busy schedule. Having a set plan lets you methodically move through your routine without wasting time figuring out what exercise to do next. You can also create a workout plan that revolves around how long you can spend at the gym.
4. Build confidence
A lack of confidence at the gym can be a huge deterrent for many people, and there are many possible elements contributing to these feelings. A schedule can boost confidence by guiding your next exercise. Rather than floundering as you gaze around the gym, you will know exactly where you are headed. This is further supported by knowing you can correctly do an exercise. If you know what you want to do, you can look up instructional videos beforehand to make sure you know how to do them correctly.
5. Track progress
A gym schedule can also make gym time less boring. You can adjust your schedule to increase difficulty or change your routine for a new challenge. It is also another way for you to track the progress you are making, which can be a great motivator.
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