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Haute and Healthy: Why You Aren’t Seeing the Results

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Wake Forest chapter.

We’ve all been there before – spending hours at the gym but not seeing any results. It can be extremely frustrating when you’ve been putting in the time and effort, and it seems like it’s all for nothing. So what’s this all about? Well, I’m here to help you figure that out. Here are a few reasons why your fitness routine might be failing:

1. You’re not eating well.

No matter how hard you work at the gym, you’ll never get the results you want if you’re not fueling your body with the right foods. Protein rich foods, like yogurt, lean meats, and nuts, are essential snacks post-work out to help build muscle. Also, complex carbs, like bananas, are great recovery foods for after cardio. Obviously it’s hard to eat healthy 100% of the time, but try to eat sweets and treats in moderation.  You don’t need to “diet,” but just be more conscious of making healthier choices. Another important thing to point out is that eating healthier does not mean eating less. Not eating enough calories can negatively affect your energy levels, making it harder to get through your workout and hindering your ability to build muscle and create definition. 

 

2. You’re doing the same thing every day. 

Incorporating variety into your workout routine is EXTREMELY important. After a while, your body learns to adapt to the stresses of a particular workout, decreasing the benefits of the workout to the point where it doesn’t do anything for you anymore. Switch it up by working out with friends, trying a new exercise class, or alternating between cardio and strength training! 

 

3. You’re not getting enough sleep.

Skimping on sleep means skimping on the rest and recovery time that your body needs. A lack of sleep can also make it harder to focus and prevent you from putting your best effort into your workout sessions.

Our schedules are so hectic sometimes that waking up early is the only way we have time to make it to the gym. But swapping sleep for exercise won’t do you any good. Try to plan your workout schedule without compromising your sleep!

** Cover image from www.radioone.fm

Hi Demon Deacons! I'm Caroline and I'm a freshman here at Wake Forest. This year i'll be writing for "Haute and Healthy" and Campus Cutie! 
Wake Forest Chapter of Her Campus