8 Major Mistakes You’re Making In (and out of) The Gym

Are you only doing cardio when you hit the gym? Do you dedicate your life to HIIT? Are you on a constant diet? Well, now’s the time to make a few changes, as online healthy food retailer MuscleFood.com has revealed the eight major mistakes you’re making in and out of the gym.

Mistake 1 – You Only Do Cardio

Pounding the treadmill three days a week and performing an intense ab session twice a week is not going to give you a six-pack, as there is no muscle-building in this. By regularly lifting weights and incorporating them into your gym routine, you’re performing a type of cardio which will help grow your muscles. Then, by doing this, you’ll eventually start to see some definition.

Mistake 2 – You Dedicate Your Life To HIIT

High-intensity interval training is great, as it gets your heart pumping and really makes you feel like you’ve done a good work out. But, HIIT can be extremely demanding on the body and should not be done more than 3 or 4 times per week. If you find yourself doing more than that, mix it up with some low intensity classes. 

Mistake 3 – You’re Scared to Squat

Don’t be afraid to squat and deadlift. These types of exercises are the key to honing your gym body. They’re the exercises that burn the most calories as they target most muscle groups in one go. They also engage your core and help shape your figure.

Mistake 4 – You’re On A Constant Diet

Just because you’re wanting to get fit and healthy doesn’t mean you have to go on a diet. Try the 80/20 approach, where you eat healthy foods most of the time, but allow yourself a treat without feeling guilty.

Mistake 5 – You Do The Same Workout Everyday

Your body is smart, and one thing it’s good at is finding ways to reserve calories, which is why you plateau. So, if you’re still lifting the same weights and performing the same exercises week in week out, you’re not going to see results.

Mistake 6 – You Train Without Purpose

If your only desire is to ‘get a six pack’ then you’ll get nowhere. It’s important to set small, achievable goals alongside your long-term ones, which will help keep you motivated. These goals don’t have to be weight orientated. They could be trying a new class, walking to work each morning or prepping your meals.

Mistake 7 – You Hate Your Gym Routine

Going to the gym or working out shouldn’t be a chore. If you think it is, then you’re setting yourself up to fail. Instead, take a few fitness classes you enjoy, or try out new training techniques until you find one you like – this should help keep your fitness spirits nice and high.

Mistake 8 – You Have the Wrong Mind-Set

For long term success, you must look at your diet and exercise regime as something you honestly enjoy. Once you begin thinking of it as a lifestyle choice rather than a chore, you will begin to enjoy the journey and progress you’re making.

Avery Parker