FREE ESSAY ON SHAPE UP

SHAPE UP

In today's society, health and physical condition are emphasized far more than in the
past. Fitness centers are being built across the nation providing a place where we can
improve our well being. Thousands of Americans are flocking to these health centers to
enhance their physical strength. Often times these people are not making the best of
their time. They spend hours in the gym and see modest results. The reason for this is
they simply do not have a great plan when entering the weight room. They merely show up
and improvise a workout as they go. In order to create an exercise routine that will
ensure fitness, there are fundamental steps you must follow. Although not all people are
looking for the same results, these basic steps will help anyone wishing to become a
healthier person. 
A good workout begins long before you enter the weight room. There are basic habits that
may help improve your health and your workout. The first and most important routine you
must get involved in is eating healthy. A diet high in carbohydrates will increase your
energy levels and improve your productivity. A second habit you should adhere to is water
consumption. You should have at least eight glasses of water per day. This number should
increase if you are working out because much of it will be lost in perspiration. Studies
show that increased water consumption helps prevent cramps and keep your heart rate at a
healthy level. A third habit you should carry out is simply getting enough sleep. In our
modern, fast paced society humans often do not get enough sleep. If you do not obtain
seven to eight hours of sleep every day your body will not be rested for a workout, and
you will not be able to recover fully from previous workouts. Forming these specific
routines will ensure you to be ready to workout. 
Next you prepare for your workout. The first step you should take is seeing a doctor.
This could end up saving your life. A doctor may find a heart murmur or another physical
deficiency that would prevent a healthy workout. This step is especially important for
women who are pregnant or people with physical ailments. A second step you should take is
finding proper supplementation. It is important to research workout supplements and find
one that is proper for you. Supplements such as Creatine have been known to increase
muscle mass by over forty percent. Do not take a supplement if you have not researched it
thoroughly. The third step is stretching. Stretch every major muscle in your body you
intend to work out for at least thirty seconds. This will prevent major injuries and
prevent muscles from tightening. It is important to not over-stretch a muscle because
that can cause you to pull a muscle before your workout has begun. Preparing for your
workout will ensure a productive workout.
The final facet of the workout transpires in the weight room. The first activity you
should partake in is weightlifting. If you plan to increase muscle size and mass you
should direct your attention to heavier weights. Lifting heavy weights will significantly
increase your size. If your focus is on toning your muscles you should use lighter
weights and do more repetitions. It is important to workout bigger muscle groups such as
chest, back, and arms. After the major muscle groups are done you can focus on smaller
groups such as triceps and biceps. Do not work out the smaller muscles first because if
they are tired they will not be functional for lifting the bigger muscles. After
weightlifting you can move on to the cardiovascular portion of your workout. This is
important in maintaining a healthy heart. This will also help burn fat and tone muscles.
You can choose a cardiovascular activity that you want. This could be anything from
playing basketball to running a marathon depending on your specific goals. It is
important not to over exert yourself when doing cardiovascular work. This is a leading
cause of heart attacks. Working hard in the weight room is essential to a healthy
workout. 
Following these fundamental steps will ensure a healthy workout. Prepare yourself
thoroughly and use hard work and determination to see your self through. Picture your
self on the beach next summer receiving envious stares from surrounding people. Imagine
your body in better physical condition than it has ever been in before. Anticipate the
long healthy life you could live. All you have to do is take the initiative and follow
these simple steps.