How to Exercise Harder
By Isaiah David
Exercising is an ongoing process of pushing your body to extend your limits and improve your performance. With only so many hours available in the week for exercising, however, it is easy to reach a plateau and not be able to go any further. Breaking out of your rut to exercise even harder requires creativity as well as dedication.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Set aside as much time as you can for exercising. The easiest way to exercise harder is to exercise longer. Even if you can only do it once a week, try to dedicate a few hours for a really long, intense workout.
Do a variety of exercises. Your body can get accustomed to one physical activity, making it relatively easy and low-intensity. If you switch between running, swimming, biking and other cardiovascular activities, however, you will get a more thorough workout and be forced to exercise harder.
Take care of yourself. Eat healthy foods, sleep well and come to the gym with a positive attitude. If you aren't rested, well-nourished and in the right frame of mind, you won't have a good workout.
Work out with a friend, especially one you are a bit competitive with. You can encourage each other to push things just a bit more. If you can afford it, you may also want to hire a trainer. Like a friend, a trainer will push you to exercise harder. He will also be able to put his knowledge of training to work, helping you develop a more effective workout.
Listen to fast-paced music that energizes you while you work out. This will help you to keep your energy level up.
Try training for an athletic event, such as a marathon. This will give you the motivation to push your workout routine.
About The Author
Isaiah David is a freelance writer and musician living in Portland, Ore. He has nearly five years' experience as a professional writer and has been published on various online outlets. He holds a degree in creative writing from the University of Michigan.
