Why Your Exercise Routine Just Isn't Working
By Genevieve Cunningham
When we spend time exercising, we want it to work. We want to see results. We want to feel stronger and look thinner. When that doesn't happen, it can be incredibly frustrating. But there may be reasons why you're not seeing results. In fact, it may be all in your current routine. If you're interested in seeing lasting results, take a look at these reasons why you're not making progress, plus some solutions that can get you moving in the right direction.
The Problem: You're Not Challenging Yourself
If your workout is too easy, it won't cause the calorie burn that you need to make significant changes. Exercise should be challenging. It's OK to be sore and stiff after a good workout. It's OK to be tired. If the need to take a rest and catch your breath is never present throughout your workout, it's probably too easy. And if you don't increase the challenge, your body will stay the same.
The Solution: Change It Up
If you think this might be your problem, consider changing it up a bit. If you've been doing the same workout for a long time, find a new one. If yours doesn't feel like work, try adding speed, weights, or length to take it up a notch. Making some changes might be all you need to see the results you want.
The Problem: Your Workout Is Too Long or Too Short
A workout that is too long or too short may be doing more harm than good. If your workout is too short, you're likely never reaching the fat burning zone. If your workout is too long, you may not be giving your full effort -- which means you're never really challenging yourself. How long is your exercise routine? Figuring it out might make a big difference.
The Solution: Find the Sweet Spot
To find the sweet spot in length, you'll need to do a workout using your full effort. Are you being challenged at all? Increase intensity. Is it too hard? Lower the intensity or the length. It will take some time and effort, but figuring out the sweet spot for your workouts can mean an efficient, challenging workout in just enough time to change your body for good.
The Bottom Line
Workouts are individual. Everyone needs something different. The key is to find what works for you, and then to implement it into your life. Find a good, challenging workout. Make it a part of your routine. Over time, you'll see the results you want for a healthier, more confident life moving forward.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Westminster, Calif.