Keeping perspective with your exercise routine

Scott Schwab:

Many times we are proned to jump into the gym and lift as many machines and work as hard as we can. The problem, is that we can find ourselves burning out, becoming disinterested, and not enjoying what we are doing. With many things in life, we need to keep the perspective on the long term and not the short. Much like life, exercise is not a sprint, it is a marathon. With that being said, our focus should be working the different muscle groups effectively so we encourage muscle confusion as well as creating a focus on the areas that we want to work. That is why goal orientation is so important with exercise. If you have a problem area that you want to work on, then the bulk of what you are doing should be included in your weekly routine.

We see the same case when people start a cardiovascular routine. The thought is to get on a treadmill or go for a jog with little to no preparation or goals as to why you are doing what you are doing. The best idea for any cardiovascular routine is to mix things up and have multiple activities that you do. For example, if you are wanting to shed some pounds and tone up, you should have a routine that includes weights and cardiovascular exercise. There are different thoughts on what to do in a daily routine, but I have always been taught and had the best results by lifting first and then doing cardio last. The reason being is that it will get your muscles warmed up and the blood pumping. Include in this week 3 different types of cardio such as cycling, jogging, sprinting, swimming, and plyometrics are some examples. The other part of your week should include weights. Lifting weights will burn fat and help the body to eliminate calories.

Review:

goal oriented routine

purpose driven exercises

Cardiovascular for heart, mind, and body

Weights for heart, mind, and body

Consistency for lifelong health

Recipe:
Classic Tuna Mac & Cheese
Ingredients:

1 (6.4-oz.) pouch or 2 (2.6-oz.) pouches or 2 Cans (5-oz.) StarKist Chunk Light or Albacore Tuna (if using cans, drained and chunked)1 cup Vegetable of choice, cooked1 (6.4-oz.) box Macaroni & Cheese1/4 cup Sour cream OR 2 Tbsp. Milk (optional)
Directions:
In a medium saucepan, prepare macaroni & cheese as directed on box. Stir in tuna and vegetables. If desired, stir in sour cream or milk for creamier macaroni.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Serves: 4-6