Designing the best training routine ever!

There are so many schools of thought when it comes to the most effective way to train, whether it's lifting more weights, doing more cardio or anything from sports to home workouts. Most types of training can get you where you want to go, (though my favourite routine is always a mixture of Conditioning, Cardio, Weights and Yoga). 

Below are the three key parts to a successful programme, and I think if you have these in place, then you will really enjoy and look forward to what you're doing. This will always bring the best results in both your body and the way that you perceive your training routine.

For me sports and working out is part of looking after myself, rather than a punishment I have to do because I overate on the weekend, and if you're not already there, hopefully these key tips will really help you get into that mindset of training consistently. 

 #1 - Make a clear Plan, or have one designed for you. 

Think about what you're working towards,  does your Plan reflect that? Have you scheduled the workouts around your lifestyle, and are the sessions achievable? They need to be the right length, and it's also important that you can fit them into your week without spending the whole week in bits. Walking around sore trying to convince yourself to do it all again next week is not the most enjoyable way to do it!

Does your plan make you feel more athletic? This for me is key, if you feel like you're working on multiple components of your fitness and improving, I'd definitely expect you to be getting closer to your goals.

 #2 Workout with good people.

Be it your class, Personal Trainer or your friends, being able to have support and encouragement is hugely important to your long term goals, and for your enjoyment levels. I play tennis with friends, and also train every Wednesday with my friend Andy (pictured below).

It's great having people that want you to do well, who know about your goals, as they will keep you on track and also give you another reason to train when you don't want to. There have definitely been times when Andy and I have trained where I haven't been up for it, but wouldn't cancel on him, and his motivation has quickly restored mine. Classes are also great, especially once you become a regular and have a great teacher. This may even be the most important part of long term health and fitness, and is definitely the most important for enjoyment.

 #3 Make it fun!

If you're not enjoying your fitness routine, change it! There are soooo many ways to get fit, and especially in a city now, there's classes I haven't even heard of going on every day. If you're not inspired by what you're doing, think about activities you enjoy or would really like to try and start searching.

For example if you love Strictly on a Saturday night, why not look at Zumba or dance classes? I guarantee you'll have a much better time. If you're tired and stressed at the moment, why not get in great shape just doing yoga? Or try a new sport, I had a really great time playing tag rugby (non contact rugby) this summer and made some great friends, but also really improved my speed and cardio in the process.

If you need some inspiration please drop me a message 😀.  

So in short,

- Make a clear goal. 

- Design and achievable Plan you can fit into your lifestyle

- Train with friends and supportive people. 

- Plan lots of fun activities and form of exercise. 

And then repeat! 

Thanks for reading, and any questions please don't hesitate to email.

Y&B

yogaandbarbell@gmail.com