With the change of seasons, the time is perfect to mix up your workout routine and if you don't have one there’s never a better time to start than right now!
Did you know there are three phases of progression you go through as you begin a new program?
Initial Conditioning Phase - This phase normally lasts four to six weeks. Beginning with low intensity aerobic exercises, lightweight resistance training and stretching is best. As you start off slowly, you give your body proper time to adapt to your new routine and reduce risk of injury.
Progress Phase - This phase normally lasts for the next four to eight months. It can vary depending on your goals and your initial level of fitness when you started. In this stage, you have set your foundation and you can begin to increase your intensity, duration and frequency. Your progress now becomes more rapid with consistency.
Maintenance Phase - In reaching your maintenance phase you have achieved your goals and no longer need to train with as much intensity as in your progress phase. In this phase you have developed a lifestyle around fitness to sustain your new level of health. The important thing is to keep going.
So as the seasons change, so do the phases of your fitness regime. Many people tend to start off too fast too soon, making themselves susceptible to injury or burn out. Understanding the phases that your body naturally goes through will help you to set realistic goals, make adjustments as needed and help you measure your progress along the way.