Anna's 10 Tips for Exercise Success

  

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Maximize your investment

The most expensive studio/gym/health club is the one you're paying for and not using. Anna points out specific things you can do to get more from your classes.

1. Most importantly....go to class! Plan in advance by scheduling your classes ahead of time. Keep it a priority or it won't happen. Consistent exercise is not convenient for anyone. Plan to leave work early or on time, say no to friends who want you to do something else, get to bed on time so you can get up refreshed, and don't let the winter cold and darkness demotivate you. Get a warm coat and get out there!  
2. Arrive to class 10 minutes early. This is the most important step because it will allow you to successfully complete the following steps. Arriving late to class is not only disruptive to your classmates and instructor, but now you are not prepared mentally and physically for your workout.
3. Set up properly. Set up includes not only getting equipment/mats/weights, etc for yourself, but also looking around and making sure you've helped optimize the space for others. Be ready to move a bit if it will help your neighbor and others fit in. Latecomers will have a hard time getting set up properly without disrupting the class. Equipment may be gone or you may not be able to find a suitable space for yourself without asking others to move once the class has already started. 
4. Take time before class to decompress. Once you have arrived at the studio, signed in and set up your equipment, take a moment to center yourself. Leave your daily stresses at the door and get mentally ready for your workout. Take the opportunity to visit with others and make a new friend. People who have friends in class come to class more often and get more satisfaction from their experience. 
5. Warm up. For some, a warm up may seem like a skippable part of class. NOT TRUE!  Jumping into a workout mid-stream sets you up for injury and can bring your path to fitness to a screeching halt. 
6. 100% focus on your body and your workout. Resist the desire to think about your to-do list or what your sister said at lunch today. Pay attention to your body at all times to enhance your results and avoid injury when you move with purpose and precision, and at the right intensity for YOU.
7. Ask your instructor. Understand why you're doing what you're doing in class, and how to do it correctly for you. If you're not sure, ask your instructor after class. Make it a mind/body experience every time, by thinking about what you're doing. You'll get more out of your class. 
8. Challenge yourself. Do you easily coast through your workouts and wonder why your body is not changing? Assuming no injuries, push your limits in class! When you walk through the studio doors, be 100% IN THE STUDIO...all distractions left behind. Put 100% of your focus into your body and the action of the class. A manageable way to increase your exercise intensity is to do it a little at a time. For instance, In BODYPUMP, choose one track to add weight (not every track!). In Bars, go one inch lower in your first set of thigh work. In BODYSTEP, add a set of risers for the first track. In Yoga, try one full plank before dropping to your knees.  
9. Stay for the Cool Down/Stretch. The stretch at the end of the class completes your workout. Use this valuable time to stretch and lengthen your muscles, release tension in your joints, and take time to reflect on the workout. Notice if you feel better or worse after this class. Do you feel more clarity of mind or more foggy-headed? Does your body feel satisfied or overly worn out? Use this time not only to stretch and release your body but to assess how you spent your workout and decide what approach you’ll take next time. A large part of exercise is mental.
10. Get plenty of sleep. Sleep time is when your body recovers and repairs itself from the wear and tear of exercise. Adequate sleep will prepare you for your next workout. Your muscles will be ready and your mind will be sharp.