Hitting the gym is essential if you want to lose weight. Although working out every day may seem like the quickest route to your weight-loss goals, overtraining can be counterproductive. Exercising to lose weight isn’t always about quantity. Every person is different, but there are general rules you can follow to ensure results. Here’s what you need to know.

Proper Workouts for Weight Loss

How Often

To lose weight, you need to lower your caloric intake. You gain calories every time you eat. When you exercise to burn calories, you create a deficit. When in deficit, your body will begin using stored fat for energy. Over time, you’ll lower your fat content and lose weight.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that the average person exercises 150 to 250 minutes each week to lose weight—roughly 30 to 40 minutes a day. Workout distribution needs to be carefully planned, however. Working out two full hours in one day may lead to injury. Not allowing yourself a recovery day can also lead to overtraining. Getting sidelined by a muscle strain can kill your motivation and progress. When you begin a new gym regime, start slowly. Always take it easy and allow your body to adjust, using trial and error until you achieve your stride.

Best Workouts for Weight Loss

If you’re new to working out, work with a personal trainer, or join a gym that can ease you into a program. If you want fast results, consider high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or CrossFit®. These programs, although physically demanding, are results-driven. Get in a few cardio sessions each week by walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming. Also, mixing in light weight training will help you build lean muscle.

If you’re looking for a gym in the Dayton, OH, area, contact Bombers CrossFit®. Our gym caters to clients in Beavercreek, Kettering, Oakwood, and Bellbrook regardless of fitness level with a variety of workout options. You can dive into CrossFit  and schedule sessions with a certified trainer. To learn about our classes and schedule, visit our website or call (318) 401-1538. Connect with us on Facebook for news and more fitness tips.