Working out regularly is one of the best decisions you can make for yourself!  Choosing to do so at the Courthouse allows you to choose from a number of ways to stay fit while having fun at the same time!  Remember, it is always best to clear any new workout plan with your doctor.

• Heavy Weights Are Great?: You may think lifting heavier weights is going to get you toned faster than smaller weights, but think again! When just starting out, it’s best to lift lighter weights in order to focus on good form.  Once you’ve got your form down, heavy weights can be quite beneficial.  And to address another common misconception about heavy weights, they are not just for people looking to bulk up.  Building up your muscle mass burns more fat over time than cardiovascular exercise.
• Breathe Deeply: The way you breathe can determine how you feel and how you perform during your workout.  Shallow breaths do not utilize the full capacity of the lungs.  Holding your breath during an exercise is ever worse.  Breathing deeply can drastically improve your aerobic performance.  As silly as it may sound, practice breathing exercises throughout the day.  Take 4 deep breaths through your nose followed by 4 prolonged breaths out through the mouth.  Breathing correctly during exercise will make you feel better in the long run.
• Know your heart rate: Charts are located throughout the gym and on cardiovascular machines to help you target the ideal heart rate for your age and body weight.  Training within your ideal zone will immensely maximize your exercise efforts.
• Break Down Your Sets: Got a ton of push-ups or strength training reps to get through? If 20 more crunches seem impossible, count them out in four sets of five.  Smaller sets seem easier to conquer both mentally and physically.

What do you do to maximize your gym time? Share your secrets below!