Forgotten Training Journal Notes

Forgotten Training Journal Notes

Weight Training Journals are great tools to keep track of a training regime. They are used to keep the schedule, keep track of sets, reps, weight and measure progress. These journals are often the foundation of a good solid training program. They can be as simple as a note book and a pencil or can be purchased with pages 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 a personal login code. 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.

As with any program, the best first step is to clearly set goals. 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 quantifiable indicators to measure progress.

The easy indicators 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. Clear goals and a sense of the milestones are the first steps to a good program.

Often overlooked are other factors that go into good health and support an exercise program. Keeping track of sleep can be a surprising revelation when noting accomplishments in the gym and tracking the correlation. Resting between sets, sprints, and stretching aids in training. The body requires recovery 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 be measured in tangible performance. It can also be seen in less tangible ways; people smiling at you in the mornings instead of running for cover.

One of the most important aspects of training is food intake. When, what and how much food are some of the important factors to monitor. The body requires fuel to burn. Carbohydrates, such as bread, vegetables, fruit and cereal, have long been known to be helpful fuel sources for working out. Big meals need a couple hours to digest before a major work out. Monitoring food and its effect on the workout is a very important process. People respond differently to various foods, and becoming aware of that can be a major breakthrough in any routine. Food consumption after a workout is just as important. Here is where the heavier proteins should be consumed, 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.