I used to be the type of person that worked out fast and hard. Always headed for the toughest challenges. Slow movements were for wimps. I always thought that the increased “effort” would pay off, making me get more toned more quickly. I did always manage to keep myself in pretty good shape this way. But, after I had a serious injury and went through a period of physical rehab, I learned how to listen to my body better, how to focus on very specific muscles to increase their strength and control, and how to really get noticeable results from my workouts.
Instead of doing the quick reps of the exercises that I was used to like leg lifts, squats, or sit ups, I have learned to perform the movements in very slow, controlled ways, holding each position for at least a full minute. After I finish these “new” workouts, I feel that I got just as much effect as I used to get from a five mile run!
Even though my injury felt like it was “career-ending” as far as my workouts were considered, I think that it ultimately forced me to become better at working out. I have found that this new way of working my muscle groups has helped me develop more strength in my entire body and I am actually feeling strong enough to consider taking up running again. But, I will keep taking things “one step at a time!”
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