Tips from YMCA Personal Trainer Tim Vessels

Make A Commitment to Yourself - For Life. 

I'm often asked what is the best work-out, what should I be doing to improve my health, etc.. During a personal weight-training session I help clients with different training techniques depending on their personal needs.  Following an assessment of physical ability, health concerns and personal training goals, we can design a work-out plan to best meet your needs.  One of the most effective training methods I have been working with a twenty-ten routine known as Tabada. More details...

There are lots of ways to work-out to be fit, but here

are a few pointers that everyone should follow:

Stretch - It's always as good idea to stretch for a few minutes before beginning your workout.  Concentrate on the muscles you will be using during your workout.

Get Warm - Whether you walk, ride the bike, use the treadmill or another technique, it's a good idea to warm-up at least 10 minutes before beginning your weight-training workout

Focus - Focus on the exercise you're doing and try to do it well.  It's not so much about how much weight, but rather about form, breathing and concentration. Watch your posture, concentrate on the muscle group you're targeting, accelerate as you lift and and then resist as you slowly release.  I call this "concentrating on the negatives."

Cool-Down - Just like warming up, cooling down is equally as important to gradually lower your heart-rate and care for your muscles. Slow down your movements, breath deep and stretch - again. Stretching at this point in your workout is a great way to provide you with lasting flexibility now that your muscles are warm.

Drink Water - Drinking plain water, not sports drinks, soft-drinks or any other drinks, is important. Be sure to drink at least 64 ounces of water per day, that's eight 8 ounce glasses.