20% of any weight loss plan is based on physical workouts. Losing weight without building muscle is not healthy since it brings multiple nutritional deficiencies and is not even sustainable. Workouts are not only important for weight loss but they are equally important for maintaining a healthy body. Some post-workout habits however can render all your hard work ineffective. In this article, we are shedding light on some of the things that you should never do after a workout.
1. Heavy Carbs
A lot of people are of the mindset that after a workout, they deserve a treat since they have burned so much of calories already. Instinctively, the body also desires food once it has burned down so much of its energy. As a concept, this eating spree makes sense but in reality, you would be wasting all of the hard work that goes into a workout. This however does not mean that you should not eat at all after exercising. The key is to eat right and not indulge in simple but heavy carbs such as candies, desserts and fast food.
2. Energy drinks
Some people think that drinking and energy beverage will help them replenish all the electrolytes that they have just consumed. This is simply not true. Energy drinks are high on sugar and caffeine and thus do more wrong than right to your metabolic system and weight loss goals. Instead you should simply go for ORS or plain water.
3. The Cool down
A lot of people like to go extra hard in the gym and get as much done as possible in a single workout. These people thus are fond of skipping the cool down period of their exercise and hit the shower straight. This is severely dangerous for your muscles and they can become stiff in response to such routine. To get the maximum benefits of your workout, you should practice at least 10 minutes of cool down exercises so that your muscles can relax in the best way possible.
4. Sedentary routine
Some people think spending one hour in the gym is enough to stay healthy. Although it is better than not doing anything, it is certainly not the ideal way to go. The hour you spend in the gym jump starts your metabolism but to keep it going on the same rate throughout the day, it is important that you indulge in at least some minimal activity such as brisk walking or simply more standing time on average.
This article is written for the sake of awareness. It does not take into account people who have medical conditions such as diabetes and arthritis. For such people, working out with an instructor and dieting under the supervision of a dietitian is the best way.
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This article was produced in partnership with oladoc.com, a digital health company in Pakistan. Using oladoc, you can find top nutritionists in Lahore, Karachi, Multan, and book an appointment online.
