How do I Choose the Best Gym Workout?

Choosing the best gym workout depends largely on what you are trying to accomplish through your workouts. One of the benefits of working out at gyms is that they provide such a wide array of equipment and, usually, fitness classes that they can accommodate a wide variety of workout routines. The wide variety of available gym workouts, though, means that it is crucial to have a clear gym workout plan in order to get the most out of a gym membership.

A gym workout usually will focus on either aerobic exercise or weightlifting, although it is also possible to perform a workout routine that blends both. Aerobic workouts are common for those athletes trying to burn calories or tone the body or who are training for endurance sports. Aerobic workouts generally make use of a gym's treadmills, stair climbers, elliptical machines, stationary bikes and rowing machines. Performing aerobic exercise at a gym can be beneficial because you can frequently change the type of exercise that you are performing, which can help stave off boredom and maintain motivation.

Anther common type of gym workout is weight training. These kinds of workouts are beneficial for athletes who are trying to improve strength or engage in bodybuilding. Weight training also is a very effective way to lose weight because building muscles can substantially increase your metabolism. With a higher metabolism, you will burn more calories even when not working out.

Gyms are particularly effective for these kinds of exercises because a gym has both the resources and the space necessary to maintain a wide array of workout equipment. Most gyms will have the weights and various benches and cages necessary to perform any number of free weight lifts safely. Also, most gyms have a wide array of machines available for those athletes who either do not know the proper form necessary to use free weights or who do not have a spotter available.

When you are deciding what kind of gym workout will best suit your needs, it is also important to be aware of the fitness classes that a gym offers. In addition to workouts that target cardiovascular exercise, such as aerobics or step classes, or those that focus on overall body fitness, such as martial arts training, many gyms offer yoga and Pilates classes. These classes can also benefit you by providing better balance and flexibility.