GirlsGuideTo | 8 Get-Fit Tips to Borrow from the Guys

I know I’m not the only one who gets so tired of my gym routine. When you’ve reached a plateau, it’s time to switch things up to boost your motivation, and burn more calories. While guys' bodies are different, it’s okay to take inspiration from their workouts and adapt it to your own. For starters, did you know that strength training burns way more calories than cardio alone? Keep reading for more advice on improving your fitness routine by taking these 8 tips from the guys.

1. They Focus on Getting Stronger-Not Thinner

Guys work out to get bigger while women work out to get thinner. While you probably don’t want to “bulk up,” you shouldn’t be afraid to build some muscle. Muscles burn more calories and shape your entire body. If you want to change the way you look, you’ll need to change the shape of your muscles.

2. They Work Multiple Muscle Groups at Once

If you’re working more muscles at one time, it’s only expected that you’ll burn more calories at one time, no matter where you are. Do more compounding exercises, like squats, since they engage multiple muscles simultaneously. Switch up your regular routine by trying exercises that work more than a single muscle group or combine two moves to get better results in less time. Jillian Michaels includes a TON of compound exercises in her workout videos.

3. They Hone in On a Different Set of Numbers

Women tend to fixate on how many calories they’ve burned per workout and how much weight they’ve lost. While those are both useful as part of a fitness regime, it’s more beneficial to hone in on a different set of numbers. Take note on how much of a specific exercise you’ve accomplished – and try to beat that number next time. Whether it’s steadily increasing speed during cardio or some weight during strength you’ll continue to improve your strength and energy, which means better workouts are ahead. The number on the scale should never be the end-all way to track your fitness progress.

4. They Log Their Workouts

Most men log their workouts to keep track of weight lifting, but you’ll gain benefits for tracking your stats, too. You’ll have an honest account of how long and often you’ve been working out, and can keep track of your progress as well. Keep a small notebook handy or log the information into your smartphone.

5. They Get Their Sweat On

Go ahead and get sweaty. No one is going to judge you for perspiring at the gym. When you really work up a sweat, it’s because your body is heating up and burning calories, which is the reason we go to the gym. Plus, perspiration detoxifies your skin. Therefore, don’t be afraid to give it your all; your body, skin, and mind will all benefit.

6. They Flex Their Muscles

Strength-training breaks down muscles which then build back up over the next 48 hours, mostly during sleep. Contracting or flexing muscles immediately following a weight-lifting set assists in breaking down the fibers to some extent. In essence the more you break them down, the more they’ll build back up, for greater results. So, be sure to flex and check yourself out during your workout.

7. They Eat After They Exercise

Many women make the mistake of not eating after a workout. Your body needs to replenish the energy it just burned and while it often takes stored fat, it will pull from your calorie-burning muscle, too. Prevent muscle loss by enjoying a mix of protein and carbs after a workout. You only need a small amount of protein, 10- 20 grams, so drink a small protein shake or snack on a hard-boiled egg.

8. They Leave Magazines Out of It

Leave the US Weekly at home. Not only is the reading distracting you from your best effort, it can interfere with your form. Looking down while running or using other cardio machines decreases oxygen flow to your lungs. You’ll exhaust yourself quicker, likely shortening your workout, therefore, burning fewer calories. If you get too bored on the bike or treadmill, try switching up your iPod playlist. Fitness magazine recently listed their top 100 workout songs as submitted by readers. Check out those upbeat tunes for some inspiration.

Source { Woman's Day }