9 Horrible Pre-Workout Habits You Need To Stop

Are you trying to get in better shape? If so, creating an effective workout regimen is essential. Unfortunately, there are many poor habits that many wannabe workout warriors pick up.

Chugging Water

Drinking a great deal of water is usually great for your body, but chugging a ton of it right before a workout is a bad idea. All of that water in your stomach can make you feel sick and uncomfortable. Stay hydrated for your workout, but don’t try to drink a gallon of water right before you hit the gym.

Setting Unreasonable Expectations

While it is very important to create goals for yourself, you need to make sure they are reasonable.  If you are sore from a previous workout sesh, don’t expect yourself to work just as hard.  If you set goals that are too high you will only discourage yourself.

Not Planning Ahead

This bad habit could be the reason you aren’t getting the most out of your workout.  Before you leave for gym, take a few extra minutes to have everything you need.  Headband? Check. Water bottle? Check. Fully charged iPod? Check. Clothes? Check. If you forgot one of your gym essentials your whole workout will just be off. 

Not Preparing Mentally

Okay, so you had a bad day.  You were late to work, got chewed out by your boss, or had a bad commute.  Take two minutes right before you start your workout to get in the zone.  Don’t bring the outside into your workout.

Too Much Coffee

Being hyped up on caffeine before a workout may seem like a good way to get ready for the gym, but it’s really a horrible idea. Your energy level will crash, leading to lethargy. A good workout can lead to a natural high that can increase your energy.

Protein Right Before Workout

It can take hours for your stomach to break down foods that contain a high amount of protein. Eating protein long before you start to work out is fine, but you should not eat it immediately beforehand.

Eating a Huge Meal Beforehand

This is a very, very bad idea. Not only will you feel sick, but serious health issues can result. Eating lots of food right before a workout can lead to severe stomach cramps.

Working Out On An Empty Stomach

On the opposite side of the spectrum, working out with nothing in your stomach will leave you feeling lethargic. It can cause you to lose muscle tissue and interfere with accomplishing your workout goals.

Not Making Goals

Be sure to create specific, achievable goals for yourself before beginning a workout regimen. How many reps do you want to take? How many calories do you want to burn? You should also create long terms goals. How much weight do you want to lose? How much muscle do you want to gain?

Skipping Stretching

Many people forget or disregard stretching before they begin a workout. This is a big mistake. Your muscles need to be stretched properly before any strenuous physical activity. Not doing so can lead to muscle strains and other issues.

Not Sleeping Enough

A lack of sleep will leave you feeling dazed and fatigued. It is very important to be well rested and alert when you begin your workout. Fatigue can prevent you from having your best workout.

Drinking Alcohol Before A Workout

Alcohol is a depressant, and it will leave your body in the wrong state for working out. You should not consume any alcohol, even a little, before a workout.