The new year will be here before you know it, and if you’re like most people you’ll be making a resolution to finally get physically fit. It’s a great idea as starting an exercise program is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and well being. You see, exercising regularly helps reduces the risk of developing a chronic disease, improves balance and coordination, helps you lose weight, and will most definitely give you a real self-esteem boost.
In this two part series, we’re going to talk about the basics so when you’re read to try out a few fitness classes in Raleigh NC, you’ll be armed with all the knowledge you’ll need to succeed.
If you’re looking for a great gym in Raleigh, or a top rated personal trainer, please call CrossFit Invoke. We offer free classes for beginners. Drop in and see what we’re all about!
Fitness Basics
Aerobic Fitness
Most people refer to this basic component as cardio. Aerobic fitness is the foundation of all exercise programs. It is built up by engaging in endurance activities that cause you to breathe more deeply and faster over a period of time. These activities maximize the amount of oxygen in your blood. Furthermore, the better your aerobic endurance, the more efficiently your heart, lungs and blood vessels work.
If you want to increase your cardio, then you should incorporate exercises that use large muscle groups and increases your heart rate. You should start out by walking, then move up to jogging, running, or biking. You can also go swimming or dancing to increase your aerobic fitness levels. Even chores, like leaf raking, snow shoveling and vacuuming can help.
Strength Training
Another key element to basic physical fitness and starting a new exercise program is incorporating strength training into your routine. If you incorporate exercises that build muscle strength at least twice a week, you’ll increase bone strength, muscle fitness and mass, as well as lose weight.
Most fitness classes in Raleigh NC will offer various strength training machines. These will include resistance machines, free weights and other tools. However, if you cannot afford a gym membership, you don’t need to worry. You also do not have to go out and buy a lot of fancy workout equipment either. You can reap the benefits of strength training at home.
There are many exercises that you can do at home, like push-ups, abdominal crunches and leg squats. These use your own body weight. You can also use hand-held weights or homemade weights. Just fill some plastic soft drink bottles with water or sand. They work great when you’re on a budget. You can also invest in some inexpensive resistance bands. You can find these at most large retail stores.
If you want to go ahead and read part two, hit the jump – We’ll discuss even more fitness basics.
Searching for Free Free Fitness Classes in Raleigh NC for the Holidays? Drop in Invoke
Did you know that CrossFit Invoke offers free fitness classes in Raleigh NC? Sign up today and get started to see a healthier and more fit you! We have top rated personal trainers and coaches that are the best in Raleigh. Let us help you hit the gains you’ve been sweating for. The benefits you’ll receive from our fitness classes are too numerous to list! Located just minutes from downtown Raleigh NC, and right off the I-440, you should have no excuses to not come to the best gym in the Triangle, CrossFit Invoke! Call us about our holiday hours.
