| For those
of you wondering whether a cardiovascular program or weight training
program is better, the results are in. Based on fitness experts
and certified personal trainers, a regimen of both heart-pounding
and pumping iron are recommended for optimal health.
Many an exercise physiologist will prescribe
cardiovascular activity prior to the bodybuilding part of the
work-out. For instance, running or jumping rope can
warm up the body maximizing the capabilities of the strength
portion of the work-out. The rule applies as the reverse to
cardiovascular exercise. For example, if an exerciser does either
squats or leg extensions, it could impair the energy level or
negatively affect the running form.
Cardiovascular exercise may serve as a time-saver
prior to weight lifting. Since the energy level is charged up,
the muscles will be warmed up and in peak preparation to body
build. Another overlooked aspect of the exercise regimen is
the warm up or initial stretch. While cardiovascular activity
has the role of preparing the body for extended energy to lift
weights, stretching is vital to the aerobic exercise to minimize
the risk of injury. In example, stretching before working out
may decrease the chances of pulling a muscle during cardio-exercise
and even weight training.
Weight lifting tip for body building rookies:
The weight of the appropriate dumbbells, barbells and lifting
equipment will vary from exerciser-to-exerciser. The best way
to find the proper lifting weight is to find a weight where
10 repetitions can be done in one to three sets. The last sets
should be challenging. If you have significant energy after
ten repetitions, then more weight is needed. As an alternate,
if it is too hard completing an entire set of 10 repetitions,
the weight is too heavy. |
