The Intensity Factor

I like to get in a work out in the morning whenever possible. I usually hit the gym around 8:00 after my kids and husband have left for the day. On most occasions I see the same group of individuals working out. Something that occurred to me one day is that some of the people I see every time I go to the gym don't seem to be making any progress. They may not know how to get the results. They may not have a plan specific to their needs. More than likely they may not be working at a level of intensity that will get them the results they want. For example, if you are doing cardiovascular work for 30-40 minutes and it is beginning to feel fairly easy, you need to make some adjustments.

If you aren't making strides with your level of fitness try kicking it up a notch, hit the gym with the word "intensity" on your mind. For instance, instead of doing your normal 25-30 minutes on the elliptical machine, you could chose to work out for 40 minutes on the "Interval" setting that automatically switches the machine from higher intensity to lower intensity settings. In other words, it automatically changes the level of incline and the amount of resistance. If you like to fit your workouts in at home add bursts of higher intensity activity within your cardio routine. One example would be to speed walk for two city blocks than run for one block. This simple adjustment will feel more challenging. Translation: You just might be dripping with sweat by the end of your workout.

If you are barely breaking a sweat or raising your heart rate and can easily carry on a conversation you need to step it up. If you are covered with sweat after your workout, cool down and pat yourself on the back.

Keep the intensity factor in mind and make your workout count for you.