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| Monday, February 22, 2010 |
| Work Out Like an Olympian |
I love watching the Olympics. It always makes me think that anything is possible. I have the greatest respect for the athletes who dedicate their lives to training for their big day. I have to admit that it makes me want to step up my own workout. Of course, most of us will never be Olympic athletes but that doesn’t mean we can’t try to train like an Olympian. Why not use their experience and dedication to motivate us to take our workout to the next level.
Ok, I am not recommending that you run 15 miles or put in 6 hours of skiing each day but I am suggesting you take some of these tips from Olympians and incorporate them into your workout.- Stick to your schedule. Olympic athletes follow a strict schedule for their training. For example, speed skater Apollo Ohno reported that he trains for two hours four times per day. You don’t need to go that far, but create a schedule and stick to it. Don’t make up excuses and reasons to skip your workout. Don’t let anything get in the way of your schedule.
- Have a goal. The Olympics may not be your goal but pick a goal that is attainable for you. Choose a goal that is important for you to achieve. Perhaps you want to run a ½ marathon or full marathon or possibly compete in a fitness competition or even just fit in your old jeans! Just make sure you have a goal. Once you reach it, create another goal.
- Vary your workout. Olympic skiers don’t just ski all day. You need to incorporate a variety of different workouts. Always incorporate cardiovascular exercise and resistance training (weight training), but try to include some other workouts such as Pilates, yoga or dance. Varying your workout will help you avoid burnout and injury.
- Get help. Olympic athletes get help to achieve their goals. They use trainers, nutritionists, motivational speakers, etc. A friend of mine actually works with a few Olympians doing Pilates. You probably won’t be able to afford all of these people on your team so choose who you need the most and use them. If you need guidance with your training, hire a personal trainer. Even a few sessions with a trainer will get you closer to your goal.
- Eat right. If you can’t afford a dietitian to help you eat right, buy some books or check out some of our blogs on healthy eating. Read a lot and use the advice that fits your lifestyle and will help you achieve your goals. Yes, Olympians “cheat” on their healthy diet. You can include all foods in your diet but learn how to eat healthy most days and then squeeze in your treats on occasion.
- Get a workout buddy. Many Olympians train with other Olympians! It keeps them motivated. It will make it easier to go to the 6:00 am Pilates class if you know someone is counting on you being there. A partner can also help keep you motivated and challenged.
- Get some tunes! Remember seeing Michael Phelps with his iPod on before every race? Music can really motivate you to push yourself. Download your favorite workout music from iTunes or a fitness music website.
- Rest. Even the most dedicated Olympians rest. Take at least one day off each week. Let your body rest and recover. If you are starting to feel some burn out, take a few days off. Don’t worry, you won’t have to start back at the beginning if you take a few days off but you will start back rejuvenated.
Whether you are training for a marathon, golfing tournament or a hiking vacation with your kids, train like an Olympian and you will get there faster. When you reach your goal, you’ll be glad you worked so hard.
- Jennifer
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Labels: Exercise, Jennifer, Physical Activity
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posted by My Sensei @ Monday, February 22, 2010   |
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| 3 Comments: |
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Great tips! Even though we all can't reach Olympian status, at least we can be motivated and dedicated while we work out.
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Love the tips! I love changing it up! My motto! :-)
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Wonderful Tips! I couldn't agree more. Watching Olympic athletes who have put the time, commitment, and dedication into their bodies and sports are phenomenal to watch for inspiration. Athletes come in all shapes and sizes - find things you enjoy and get out there and do it!
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Great tips! Even though we all can't reach Olympian status, at least we can be motivated and dedicated while we work out.