We all reach that point in any great workout where we want to take the easy route… I’ve done it, and I bet you’ve done it, too! Whether it be walking instead of jogging, quitting without finishing the last few tricep extensions, getting a drink of water instead of pushing through the last few seconds of cardio and the list goes on. Next time you think about quitting early, consider these tidbits:
· Those last few repetitions count the most, as the muscles have already been fatigued at that point.
· Those last few meters of a jog or last few seconds of a cardio blast increase lung capacity and result in greater cardiovascular benefit than the first moments, as the heart muscle has to work harder with extended cardio activity.
The sense of accomplishment and strength, both physical and emotional, that you’ll feel if you do your best and finish is unbelievably empowering. You must push yourself beyond the comfort zone to increase strength and reap the other physiological benefits of exercise. Next time you feel that urge to stop, think “I CAN DO ANYTHING for 4 more repetitions,” “I CAN DO ANYTHING for 10 more seconds,” and “I will FINISH!” You ARE a POWERMOM! With that said, don’t sacrifice form to finish! On any day, I’d rather see a mom do five perfect repetitions than ten sloppy repetitions. Don’t think you can eek out four more perfect repetitions? Do two perfect slow ones! That’s okay, that’s your best, and that’s finishing it out right!
On the other hand, if you finish every set of repetitions feeling strong, it’s time to upgrade your tubing or add a mommymuscle bar!! You should feel challenged as we finish sets. Not sure if you’re ready? Ask your StrollerFit instructor, as we carry additional tubing/band options to try out and gauge your level.
I’ll see you at StrollerFit!
Note that there are absolutely times when you should rest and times when you can push yourself too far. In this, I am aiming to address those times when we quit before we should!
Guest Blogger and StrollerFit Certified Instructor: Rachel Dossman
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