If you’ve been running a ton of miles and working out like a beast and still aren’t seeing results, you’ve probably tried everything to break your plateau. When none of it seems to work, it’s discouraging. Usually though, there’s a reason for it.
Take a look at these common reasons why your workout isn’t working, and use these tips to understand what you can do about it.
- Not Enough Sleep
The majority of the hormone that helps with muscle building is produced during deep sleep, so if you’re going to bed late and waking up early, you’re likely not producing enough growth hormone to support muscle building and recovery.
- Not Enough Food
The amount of food (particularly carbohydrates) needed to fuel a workout might surprise you. In terms of overall calorie needs, a lot depends on your age, gender, size, body composition and the type of workout you’re doing. Set up a meeting with Coach Nick to determine what you need.
- Stress
Getting results from your workout isn’t just about taking care of your body. If your mind is stressed from work, relationships or other anxieties, your muscle-building hormones will decrease while muscle-hindering hormones increase. Simply: stress will prevent your muscles from building back after a hard workout.
- Overtraining
If you’re pounding the pavement or working out seven times a week, there’s a good chance you’re overtraining your body and preventing gains. Your exercise capacity depends on several factors, including your age, experience, genetics, stress and health. If you work out too much, your muscles and tissue become inflamed and broken down. It is CRUCIAL to have low intensity days, or rest days to recoup your energy and give your body a break.
Over time, you should see results from your workouts, but don’t expect overnight miracles. Slow and steady is the name of the game when it comes to raising the fitness bar.
-Coach Juhi
