Because the effectiveness and success of exercise and workout routines cannot be correctly judged based on the amount of sweat one emits, here are a few tips from experts on how to assess the effort you exert.
Tip #1: The number one sign that says the workout routine has become too easy is if the exercise does not get the heart rate going. An increased heart rate is crucial whenever engaging in exercise routines. ABC's Extreme Weight Loss experts and husband-and-wife team Heidi and Chris Powell recommend using a monitor for the heart rate when doing cardio exercises: "It's the most reliable indicator of your intensity and the zone in which you want to train in to achieve your goals."
While digital monitors may not always be available, especially in case of outdoor cardio exercise routines, Heidi provides this suggestion for manual monitoring: "Find your pulse, count the number of beats you get in six seconds, then add a zero," says Heidi. As an example, counting 14 beats in six seconds is equivalent to a heart rate of 140 beats per minute.
Tip #2: A second telltale sign is when the repetitions become easy. This is an especially useful indicator when doing strength training. According to Heidi and Chris, "When it comes to strength training, it's better to gauge by muscle fatigue and rep range, as you may not experience a significant jump in heart rate but you're still working hard."
Heidi adds that whenever the training can be completed easily and comfortably, the training has to be changed.
Maintaining the correct form when performing a routine is also essential in getting the most out of it. An incorrectly executed routine will provide little or none of the benefit that the routine is supposed to provide. As long as the struggle in the routine is present, keep at it.
Tip # 3: Breathlessness is a key indicator in fitness routines. The 30-Second Body author and certified trainer Adam Rosante suggests, "Adding various tests and challenges to your workouts is a great way to prove that you're progressing and are ready to take things up a notch." He also suggests observing routines every three weeks to gauge if the body has adapted to the routine and requires change.
