Weight training diaries are great tools to keep track of a training regime. They are used to record progress, routine and repetitions. These weight training journals are often the foundation of a good solid training program. They can be as simple as pad and pen or can be books bought that have spaces for entries, suggested routines and other helpful advice. Many gyms now have equipment that will keep track of sets, weights and reps with individual I.D.. But training isn’t just about the active exercise. Whether building for strength or size, keeping track of the other factors of training can be equally revealing. That is the reason keeping weight training diaries can be so helpful.
As with any plan, the best first step is to establish objectives. Is the program designed for cardio improvement, weight loss, joint and body mobility, strength, or some other end? Determining the specific objective will help in setting clear gauges to measure progress. The easy measurements are pounds lost, how much is lifted, heart rate, and flexibility. There are other, subtler indicators as well; sleeping patterns, energy levels, stamina, mood, concentration and complexion, to name just a few. Well stated objectives and a sense of the milestones are the beginnings of a decent program.
Regularly forgotten are other factors that go into good health and promote fitness. Keeping track of sleep can be a eye-opening experience when noting accomplishments in the gym and tracking the correlation. Resting between sets, sprints, and stretching aids in working out. The body needs mending time. Yet many gym rats will know to rest between sets, but forget to go to bed In our 24/7 culture, something as basic as sleep often slips on the priority list. Placing awareness on rest is often an insightful exercise that can correlate with measurable results in the gym. It can also be seen in less tangible ways; folks greeting you instead of hiding in their cubicle.
One of the crucial elements of exercise is food consumption. What, when and quantity of what you eat are some of the important factors to monitor. The body requires fuel to burn. Carbohydrates, such as bread, vegetables, fruit and cereal, are established fuel sources for physical expenditures. Large food intake need a couple hours to absorb prior to exercising. Monitoring food and its effect on exercise is a very important process. Folks react differently to various foods, and becoming aware of that can be a key advancement in any routine. Food consumption after a workout is just as important. Here is where the heavier proteins should be eaten, which is especially important for women.
Keeping track of goals, sleep and diet are important aspects of any health program. More benefits have come from simple awareness then any rigid exercise regime and a solid training journal is worth it’s weight in gold.
