So we talked to a few personal trainers and rustled up some of the most common questions that people have asked them. We also got their answers.
When will I lose weight?
It's a question every trainer tolerates on a daily and sometimes hourly basis. Weight loss is largely dependent on the client's determination and habits. Besides, expect to feel the results of your training sooner than you see them. People who start a new exercise program and consistently hitting the gym usually report improvements in their sleep, mood and stamina.
How many days per week do I need to work out?
Depending on an individual's health and fitness goals, they will need to commit to a minimum of three days of exercise each week to see results. Any fewer than that, and each workout will feel like you're starting all over again each and every time.
What should I eat before a workout?
Ideally, a person should have some form of fuel in their system before they work out. Eating an easily digested carbohydrate an hour or so before you hit the gym ensures that you'll have enough energy in the tank to get
through your program. Try fruit and curd or toast and peanut butter; not too much, though, otherwise you'll feel sluggish and heavy. It's been found that many people can tolerate cardio on an empty stomach but need fuel to get through a strength training session.
What should I eat after a workout?
Eating after a workout is important. You need to replenish your glycogen stores and 'feed' the muscles that you've just trained. It's widely suggested that people eat a small snack consisting of protein and easily digested carbohydrates within about an hour of training and then your next meal an hour or two later. The common post-workout nutrition 'mistakes' include eating too much and choosing less than healthy options.
Why can't I just do cardio?
While cardiovascular training is great for building strong heart and lungs, it doesn't provide the stimulus your body needs to build bigger, stronger muscles and bones. Strength training is incredibly important for weight loss. Cardio exercises may burn more calories but muscle is much more active than fat; so the more you build, the more weight you lose over the long term.
Why don't my workouts ever get easier?
You would think that as your body becomes stronger and more familiar with the exercises, your workouts will start to feel easier. While some people report that, many don't. It's actually a good sign. A qualified personal trainer knows how to progress with a training plan in such a way that it's challenging for the body at a reasonable pace.
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