Exercising and Netflix: 2 for 1 Deal

Everyone who knows me, knows that I love a good old session in the gym. I do 3-4 days of cardio a week, and love when I break a sweat. If I haven't sweated, then I haven't worked. I usually spend 50-60 minutes on cardio machines in any one session.

Find details of my session in my exercise plan blog post.

Earn that TV time

But of course, 50 minutes is a long time to be staring at the back of some dude's muscular but hairy legs, or to be constantly diverting your eyes away from somebody who you secretly want to body-swap with. So, if like me, you like TV and have a Netflix account (plus a gym with decent WiFi), then bring along your phone, headphones, and catch up on your favourite tv show, while also burning some calories and breaking a sweat.

Plan your session

Always go to the gym with a plan of what you're about to do - especially with regard to cardio sessions. If you go with a plan, and you fulfill that plan, you'll know that you've succeeded. You'll also be able to utilise your time in the gym more efficiently.

I recommend keeping a training diary, that way, you can see your progress on paper.

But also, no need to overdo it in the gym. Doing a double/triple session will only make you hate the idea of exercising more. And if you do hate the idea of exercising, take my advice and pass the time by watching something on your phone.

If you do use TV as a distraction, make sure you're moving at a fast enough pace throughout the session. There's no point in spending twenty minutes on an exercise bike on level 1, moving the pedals slow enough to have my Granny pass you out if she was next to you.

Speaking of levels, this is very important. You don't want your level on any of the cardio equipment to be on 1/2/3, not even if you're a beginner. If there's no resistance, your muscles won't get strong. On equipment like the bike or cross-trainer, I suggest you start at level 6, and see how you get on from there.

On the exercise bike, I recommend you try keep the pace above 60 rpm for beginners, and above 70 rpm as you get better.

You know they say quality is better than quantity. And that is very true. I'm always tied down to a tight schedule, so I make the most of my 80-90 minutes in the gym, by keeping my pace and resistance constant.

Check out my exercise plan post for a sample of what is needed to stay fit.

#exercise #healthy #blog