There are so many people at the gym who have all the gear and no idea. But what fitness kit should no woman be without? Follow our simple guide to make sure you not only look and feel good, but also get the best out of your session.
Comfortable clothing
When you’re working out you want to feel comfortable but also feel good about yourself. You don’t need any distractions so always make sure your clothing is appropriate.
Shorts should always be preferred to trousers because they allow rapid ventilation to your largest muscles and there is no fabric to get caught in any equipment.
If you’re not confident in shorts, or want something a bit warmer, then leggings are the next best option. They will not restrict movement and also help keep muscles warm.
The right trainers
We have all seen people working out in canvas pumps - but they could be doing more harm than good.
Not only is there no protection for your feet, the long-term damage could be widespread.
Mike O’Neill, from The Society of Chiropodists & Podiatrists, told NHS UK that ill-fitting trainers can be the main cause of serious back, knee and hip pain, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints (leg pain), traumatised toes and painful blisters.
“Unfortunately, 65% of the UK’s recreational sportsmen and women wear the wrong shoes for their chosen sport,” he said. “Trainers are the most important piece of fitness equipment you’ll ever buy, and changing what you wear on your feet can prevent injuries.”
If you are a runner then you need a running shoe, while for the gym and classes a cross trainer will do the job.
Running trainers are very flexible, so they allow the foot to bend and flex through each step, but they will not protect against sideways movements like those found in racquet sports.
Also don't forget to put your flip-flops in your bag too so you can protect your feet from any nasty foot fungus infections as you walk from the changing rooms to the shower.
A good sports bra
Comfortable clothing should always stretch as far as your underwear. When we work out adequate support is vital to protect the Coopers Ligaments, which hold up the bust.
With excessive movement and poor support they can stretch and the damage can be irreversible.
Heart rate monitor
When you are working out, if you are doing it properly it is essential to know your heart rate.
Instead of guessing or relying on the hit and miss pressure sensors on the equipment, your own heart rate monitor can enhance every workout.
It will let you know when you've reached your target heart rate without you having to stop and start your routine.
A filtered water bottle
Maintaining hydration levels are one of the most important things to do when you are working out.
To make sure you stay hydrated you should consume seven to 10 ounces of fluid every 10 to 20 minutes during exercise. Keeping a bottle of water to hand means you are more likely to sip regularly.
Germ wipes
Remember not everyone is as hygienic as you, so make sure you don’t leave the gym with something you did not go in with.
Wipe everything down before and after use and keep your hands clean.
A pedometer
A pedometer is one of the cheapest fitness devices on the market but they could prove vital in your bid to get fit.
As well as working out you should still be trying to achieve 10,000 steps on your rest days. Slipping a pedometer in your pocket to monitor you throughout the day can help you achieve your target.
Foam roller
There are not too many days when you are completely pain free at the gym, so if muscle pain is a problem then it’s worth investing in a simple foam roller.
They are effective self-massaging devices that allow you to apply pressure to problem areas both before and after exercises.
Just sweep the roller across the targeted area and if it’s slightly uncomfortable, then you’re doing it right.https://uk.lifestyle.yahoo.com/fitness-kit-woman-090000182.html
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