2024 is brand new, which means the gyms are still packed with everyone who made those “new year, new me” fitness resolutions. Avoid these three common mistakes that can hinder your workout progress on your fitness journey.
Mistake #1: Doing too much, too soon
“New year, new me” and “this year, I am working on my fitness” often go hand in hand as we start a new year. Although the fitness resolution is admirable, it is easy to overdo your new workout regime if your body does not get the proper rest and recovery between exercise sessions.
“Our muscles and joints need time to rebuild the tiny tears that we create when exercising,” says personal trainer Dalton Wong. “If you don’t give them that, you’re not making the most of your time and your future workouts will start to suffer,” he explains.
Also read: How to start working out again after a break
Mistake #2: Skipping your warm-up and cool-down activities
Not having enough time is often the number-one culprit of not doing proper warmup and cooldown exercises when we work out. Not only does this time before and after your workout prevent injury, but it also safely manages your heart rate and increases your flexibility. “Activities like stretching, foam rolling and mobility exercises are great recovery tools to reduce injury,” says personal trainer and nutrition coach Briana Bernard.
@mytrainerphilAlways start with a good warmup
Mistake #3: Only sticking to one type of workout
Whether you found solace in doing yoga three times a week or have signed up for a running club, your physical and mental health are reaping the rewards. So, why should you try different things? Different forms of exercise target different muscle groups, which is why variety in your movement routine is so important.
“When we focus on one type of movement or exercise routine, we tend to neglect other aspects of our bodies, which can lead to injury in the overused areas and/or deficiencies in the underutilized areas,” says yoga instructor Christa Janine.
Also read: 20 minute home-exercise sessions
