The 3 C's of Fitness Programs by Alicia Kirschenheiter

There are all types of fitness programs built for all types of people. When it comes to deciding a fitness program that you want to begin, barring any medical restrictions, there are a few things I recommend people look for.

1. Comfort Zone - Choosing a routine that is way outside your comfort zone for beginners may not be the best choice. For example, if you feel you are uncomfortable exercising with others at first then a group class may not be right for you. A one on one session with a qualified personal trainer may be in order to get your feet wet. Additionally, if you have never exercised before having direction about proper form and movement is crucial. However, if love the electricity of a group, have a qualified instructor, feel the music and love social aspects of group classes, then by all means jump in!

2. Chock it Full - The best bang for the buck is a fitness routine that incorporates both cardio exercise and strength training. Unless you have a lot of time on your hands, workout sessions should be powerful, to the point and hit all the high notes. I recommend a circuit of sorts choosing between 8-10 exercises performed beginning to end for a 2-3 term rotation. The "circuit" should involve major muscles, alternate working body parts and the rest times should be kept short between the exercises. The heart should be pumping but the muscles should be workin!

3. Change it Up - After about 6 weeks of performing the same routine our bodies begin to adapt. Amazing things, aren't they? So let's change things up to keep the body adapting, developing and changing for the better. The changes can be as simple as reversing the order of the program you are using, changing the weight or scrapping the old routine all together for a whole new one. Whatever it is, keep it challenging, interesting and be certain it speaks to personally to help ensure you stick with.

I truly hope this helps you choose not only the perfect program for you, but helps you on your way to meeting your fitness goals for 2012.

Be great & be well,
Alicia

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