When we’re sick, the doctor gives us either a prescription medication or over-the-counter remedy. If it’s an antibiotic, for example, there will be very specific instructions as far as how much to take and the timing (once daily at bedtime, three times a day with meals, etc.) If it’s an over-the-counter remedy, like Tylenol, there are specific recommendations for the maximum dosage.
Clearly, when it comes to medicine, more isn’t better. There’s a minimum effective dose.
So why is it that so many people ignore these guidelines when it comes to another form of “medicine,” i.e. exercise?
Why do people get stuck in an all-or-nothing mindset?
Because we’ve been conditioned to believe that if some is good, more must be better.
It’s not true … for a couple of reasons.
First, a lot of people just starting a fitness program come out like gangbusters and try to hit 5 or 6 workouts a week. Oftentimes, they’ll become so sore, tired and beat up that they need a few days off. A few days turn into a week, which turns into two … and the next thing you know, they’re back to being inactive again.
Second, some people have developed a belief that a full-blown gym workout is the only effective way to exercise. The pandemic taught us this isn’t true, right? Home workouts were better than no workouts (and they can be even better than gym workouts)… and that’s still true. So if you get stuck late at work or in traffic and can’t make it to the gym, don’t head straight for the couch. Put your gym clothes on when you get home and follow a basic bodyweight workout for 15 or 20 minutes. Better yet, do all your workouts from home to really save time. And you won’t need to deal with all the people at the gym that keep stealing your equipment.
More isn’t necessarily better than some … but some is better than none 🙂
Another important thing to remember about exercise is that you don’t need elaborate, complicated exercises to experience the benefits. Over the course of the week, if you’re doing some type of squatting, hinging, lunging, pushing, pulling and carrying – with small doses of cardiovascular activities sprinkled in – you’re doing everything you need to improve your body and health.
So when it comes to exercise, don’t overcomplicate things. Don’t overdo it, and don’t under-do it. And remember, the basics are best.
Want some home workout ideas? Reply ‘home’ for more info.
Your Friend and Coach,
Train Smart. Train Hard. Train Safe. Train to Sweatt
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