Set Yourself Up for Exercise Success

Now that you have read about plateaus and how to overcome them, here are some reminders for successful exercise sessions. To be safe and effective, these not-so-little details will help your body recover and be ready to go for the next session.

• Warm up. A warm-up includes an activity that gradually increases your heart rate and breathing, and warms up your muscles and joints.
• Cool down. After you're done with your cardiovascular exercise and/or your strength training, take time for a cool-down. Gradually slow things down and let your heart rate and breathing decrease; this usually take no more than three to five minutes.
• Stretch. As you cool down, this is a good time to stretch, while your muscles are still warm. Stretching helps posture, mobility and range of motion, and helps your muscles return to a more relaxed state that may help decrease stiffness and soreness. This will help set the tone for another successful workout!
• Finally, prepare for your next exercise session by being organized! Make sure your gear is ready to go for your next session. Have your water bottle clean and easily accessed and ready to be filled; have a snack handy afterward to refuel; and make sure you empty and prep your gym bag for your next exercise session.

Looking ahead and preparing both for getting your exercise done and in making your body ready and able to recover well can be key in your long-term success!