The small changes that can help you get more from your workout.

Sometimes, it can be easy to get hung up on big goals. The number we want to see on the scales. The amount we can lift. Or the clothes size we want to fit into. But often, it’s the small details that determine how effective our workout is. Those minor points that add up to a big difference in your performance and your progress. Make sure you sweat the small stuff to create an effective workout that helps you reach your goals faster.

I’ve brought together five common small changes, below, to help your workout go from good to amazing.

Cut Off Communication

This one may seem drastic at first, but leaving your phone at home or switching it to aeroplane mode can have a huge impact on the amount of time you spend actually working out. All those quick email checks or couple of minutes to reply to your group chats, they add up. And over time, they can take hours away from what you are really there to do. Get fit. Try it, you will be surprised at how much it decreases your distraction levels.

Stretch Out Your Muscles

This one may sound super obvious, but it’s a stage we often choose to skip if we are pressed for time. Don’t skip stretching, ever. Make sure you include at least five minutes of dynamic stretching before any workout routine. Not only will this warm your muscles and make your workout more effective. It will also reduce your risk of injury.

Plan What You Want To Achieve

If you head to the mat or the gym with no idea of what your workout will look like, you’re missing a trick. A well organised and thought-out routine that’s adapted for your unique goals will always pay back more than a casual, ‘let’s just see what happens’ session. This doesn’t have to be lengthy, or even written down. It just means taking a few minutes before you get moving to come up with a plan.

Have Fun

Exercise may be hard work but if it feels like a chore, you’re doing it wrong. Figure out what makes working out fun for you. This might be the style of workout you choose, whether you work out indoors or outdoors, or even the playlist or podcast you listen to. Figure out what a fun workout routine means for you and inject those elements into every routine.

Track Your Progress

Big goals can seem impossible to reach if you don’t take the time to celebrate the small victories. Keep track of what you achieve in every session, whether that’s a single extra rep or kilo. You’ll see your progress grow and this will help to keep your motivation levels high.

What are the small things that make a big difference to your workout? Share your stories on our social media channels. I love to hear from you! Next week, it’s December! (Where did 2018 go!) And I’ll be talking about indulging in festive eating without losing track of your fitness goals. I’ll be back in your inbox next week. Until then, stay amazing!