How to be Productive at the Gym
Workout Productivity
Many of us have packed schedules with work, studies and our social lives. Whether a workout is a part of your day or what you look forward to the most, sometimes we forget how important it is to stay focused. Your workout, whether from home or in a gym, should be as productive as possible. It shouldn't be the part of your day where you chose to procrastinate.
Who doesn't love those days when you feel you totally crushed your entire workout? With these tips, make every workout your best one as you stay focused and keep productive.
1. Avoid Distractions
Turn that phone off!!!! Or at least hit DO NOT DISTURB mode. Smartphones and smartwatches can be a huge distraction that affects the productivity of your training. Avoid texts, calls, Tik Tok and Snapchat!
2. Avoid Rush Hour or Workout at Home
Try going to the gym during off-peak hours to steer clear of crowds and avoid waiting for equipment. Or invest in an at-home gym to avoid waiting around.
3. Know Where to Go
Have a plan! Think ahead of time about what workout you want to do, when you get there, scope it out and achieve it.
4. Download an App
Not sure exactly what to do at the gym? Save time by using a fitness app to have a plan.
5. Listen to Music
Studies show listening to music while working out can help people work out harder, better, faster, and stronger. Pro tip: Keep one mega-upbeat song on your playlist as a go-to for those especially tough workout moments when you need an extra push.
6. Stay Hydrated
Water doesn't only hydrate—it can fight fatigue too. Two hours prior to your workout, try to drink 17 to 20 ounces of water. During your workout, drink seven to 10 ounces about every 20 minutes.
7. Time Your Rests
Stay aware of the clock ticking between intervals or sets. That 60-second recovery can easily turn into three or four minutes if you're not paying attention. Try using a timer on your phone or an interval app to keep rest consistent.
8. Take a Class
Signing up for a class—whether it's spinning, yoga, or a mix of cardio and strength—can spice things up and help push you to a new level.
9. Pick a Partner
Friends can hold you accountable for getting your butt to the gym! It can also make your workout more fun and motivating. The same goes for couples.
10. Try a Personal Trainer
A private trainer will not let you slack off. They will keep you focused on the workout and not allow for distractions while correcting your mistakes and panning your most optimal workout. investing in a private trainer can be an investment in yourself.
What should you do after a workout?
Eat, hydrate, stretch, and shower. It is important to eat the right food after a workout, preferably something with lots of protein in it. Drink water and electrolytes, especially if you’ve been sweating a lot. Stretch for at least five minutes to prevent any initial soreness. Lastly, be sure to shower and change right away, as sweaty clothes can hurt your skin if left on for too long. (Active Article, 2022)