We get it, sometimes just showing up to a workout is all we can do, and going through the motions can sometimes become part of the 'routine'. But we all want and need that sweat sesh that boosts our mood and gives us the motivation to complete our daily tasks. A good workout is more than just showing up at the gym and going through the motions. To get the most out of your workout, you need to be intentional and focused to get the most bang for your buck in all aspects of your life.
Here is UpBeats NUMBER ONE tip on how to find that intentional and focused workout.
Number 1 tip to get the most out of your workout:
CORE ENGAGEMENT:
Oh the core. We love our core. Wait, what exactly is our core?
You've heard it in many a fitness class, "brace your core", "engage your core", "tight core muscles". All fantastic cues from the instructor for engagement - if you know what it means. But what if you don't?
Most of us think of the core muscles as the ones you can easily see in a body builder - the abs (rectus abdominis), obliques, etc. But did you know that our core muscles actually consist of everything from the rib cage down the quads and all the way around into the back and booty muscles?
In an UpBeat Barre Instructor training, we go in more depth on the anatomy of the core and why it's important in a fitness class - but suffice it to say that proper core engagement is going to be the most essential part of getting the most effective workout!
The core muscles are the foundation of your body and play a crucial role in balance, stability, and overall strength. Getting these muscles warm at the beginning of your workout and engaging them throughout creates stronger, more purposeful movement.
How to engage your core?
We have an excellent and entertaining 3 minute video found HERE showing you exactly how to engage your core.
Essentially it's a 3 step process:
Prepare with good posture
Step 1: Fill the space (navel to spine)
Step 2: Knit the ribs together
Step 3: Full engagement
We would add an additional 4th step of proper breath which is another important step to getting the most out of your workout and can have a huge impact on the way we engage our core. You can find more information on that HERE.
Remember, engaging your core is not just limited to ab exercises. It's important to maintain core stability during various movements like squats, deadlifts, really - any movement because it will protect your spine and maximize your strength and create an intentional workout.