I have been really excited to read about how some of you are doing with the Challenge, keep it up!!!  For some of you exercise has been a part of your routine for a while and others of you are just starting to experience how AWESOME working out is ;).  Whether you’re a beginner to exercise or not, I wanted to make sure everyone is a pro when it comes to a warm-up.  Even if you’re running late and trying to make it to a class, DON’T SKIP YOUR WARM UP!!!  Walk on the treadmill, ride the bike or hop on the elliptical for 5 min and then go take your class.  Here’s why:

1. Increase blood flow throughout your muscles, ligaments and tendons will reduce stiffness and increase flexibility
2. Warm muscles = MUCH less risk for injury
3. Mental preparation, especially if you’re about to do a heavy lift or endure an advanced class.  You NEED to mentally prepare yourself so you won’t quit when it gets too hard…your mind will quit on you way before your body does…remember that!

What you do for your warm up will be personal preference but keep in mind it should be no shorter then 5min and no longer than 10min.  When you’re lifting weights you should always do a warm up set of 15-20reps on top of your cardio warm up.  If you still feel stiff after your warm-up you can do a series of dynamic stretches to help you loosen up a bit more.  This weeks workout video will include a dynamic stretching routine :).

So tonight, warm up really good and have a great workout!!!  Let me know if you have any questions 🙂