Motivation is the key to keeping you primed to keep pushing heavy weight in the gym. And what better motivator is there than music? We asked the experts–our dedicated Muscle & Fitness fans–what music makes their heart rate rise and gets them pumped to hit new PRs, and you answered. Here are the top 25 workout songs for every musical taste.
If this sounds familiar, the next logical step is usually to find an educated personal trainer with proven experience.
But, if you’re not ready to take that step, or if you’d prefer to go it alone, rest assured, we spoke to some of the nation’s finest personal trainers who gave us 25 insightful tips and strategies specifically designed to help you build strength, gain muscle mass, lose fat, enhance your endurance and maintain healthy eating habits.
Squat touch
Start standing tall, jump legs out as if doing a jumping jack. Stop when your feet land in the wide position. As soon as your feet touch, allow your lower body to go into a squat while touching the ground with your hands. Quickly stand up and bring your feet together.
Lateral Jumps
Start standing with feet together. Perform a ‘mini squat’, tighten your core and jump laterally toward your right side. Land softly, absorbing most of your weight with your right foot. Immediately upon landing, repeat jump to other side.
Keep Muscles Limber
If you’re under 40, hold your stretches for 30 seconds. If you’re over 40, hold them for 60 seconds. As you reach your 40s, your muscles become less pliable, so they need to be stretched longer.
Don’t Drop the Ball
To catch a pop fly in the sun, use your glove to shade your eyes. It’s bigger than your free hand and puts the leather in perfect position to snag the ball.
