Being fit and healthy, especially after the age of 40, is not just a 60 or a 90 day event. It's an ongoing process which does require effort on your part.
And, to be living a fit and healthy lifestyle is why you're reading this article, right?
The Challenge
The challenge for many people over the age of 40 is there are so many gyms, websites, workout program, "stop the insanity" type people out there which means confusion and mistakes can easily be made. Which brings me to this post …
Here's 3 of the biggest workout mistakes people do on a consistent basis.
Mistake # 1: They Feel It Takes Too Much Time
I hear this often and, quite frankly, the more I think about it the more absurd it sounds to me. Sure, it does take some time, but what doesnt?
The question should be "How much time out of my day will it take?" Most workout programs, whether it's a cardio based workout, or a weight training based workout, usually can be done well within a 60 minute time frame. Heck, even a 30 minute time frame.
Does it have to be every day? Of course not. 4-5 times a week is ideal to do SOMETHING that will benefit your health.
So, if you're telling me you can not find at least 30-60 minutes a day to do something that will improve your health, and you REALLY want to do it, then we need to talk. Because if you really want to do it, we will find that time for you. But, the choice is yours.
Mistake # 2: Spot Reduce Fat
I do not know where this originated from, but the general public thinks that fat reduction in the human body can be isolated. For example, getting rid of unwanted fat around the belly area only, but leaving the arms and legs alone. Folks, it does NOT work that way.
Your body does NOT reduce fat in a specific place you want it to do so. People think that if they do 100 sit ups a day for 7 days, they'll have that six pack abs look. The truth is … NOT!
Generally speaking, the more activity you do, the more your body will burn fat. BUT, it does not burn it in a specific place, it's more kind of all over at once, if that makes sense. If your belly has a lot more fat than your arms, it will look like it's getting smaller quicker, but it burns at about the same proportion. Make sense?
My advice, just work out and eat right for now. Body shaping will come later, OK?
Mistake # 3: I Can Figure This All Out On My Own
Really? You can? Now granted, some people can do it on their own, but it's a VERY small percentage of the people who could. You will need some sort of coaching to help you along.
By "coaching", I'm not saying you should hire a personal trainer (but it is good to do so), but at LEAST get a workout program to follow along. There are so many programs, websites and people out there, you can find SOMETHING somewhere. BUT, the issue then stands, will you follow through with the program? Will you actually DO the program? If you do, you'll see results. Once you see results, you'll be more inclined to follow other programs, which will turn your life around and you'll be living that fit and healthy lifestyle in no time!
BONUS TIP! – Find a fitness professional or workout program to fit your way of life. We have interviewed over 40 Fitness Professionals from around the world and they each bring something unique to the table, and they all want to help you!