9 simple things to improve your workout routine in 2018

Brought to you by Irish Life Health

Get the most out of your fitness regime in 2018...

"New year, new me!" It's a cliché, but January usually brings with it the expectation that we should start getting on top of our health and improve our lifestyle. As the Christmas dinners and drinking sessions finally eke their way out of our systems, it's time to quit the humming and hawing and plan the best way to achieve those fitness goals this year. Obviously, shaking up your routine is easier said than done, but allow us to offer a few suggestions for ways to make that process a bit easier.

1. Change your eating habits

Before you even think of stepping into a gym, it's important to be aware of how your diet can affect your training programme. It's not a bad idea to consult with a nutritionist before you start putting a plan in place.

2. Set realistic goals

Being ambitious is one thing, but if you're expecting to look like Dwayne Johnson after a week in the gym, you're only setting yourself up for disappointment. Before getting started, try to set yourself an achievable short-term goal. Think about what it will take to reach that point and ask yourself if you can see yourself getting there.

3. Listen to music

You're more likely to workout harder when listening to music with a faster tempo. You're also less likely to give up on whatever you're doing. At the very least it can distract you from the mundanity of the gym. Whether it's 'Eye of the Tiger' or another '80s power ballad of your choice, music will get you in the zone.

4. Exercise with a friend

Having a gym buddy has a tonne of benefits. They can cheer you on while also holding you accountable. Sleeping in and missing a session is a lot harder when you've got someone else counting on you. Workouts are easier to get through if someone is alongside you, sharing in the blood, sweat and tears.

5. Jump rope

Not just for the playground. You burn as many calories jumping rope as you do running... you look way cooler too.

6. Don't leave the hardest part of your workout until last

Even the best of us are guilty of a bit of procrastination. Going right back to the days of scrambling down homework on a Sunday night (or Monday morning if you were a really mad bastard). If you can manage to do the most difficult part of your workout halfway through, the rest will be a walk in the park.

7. Wear red

Alright, maybe we're clutching at straws with this one, but apparently, it's a motivating colour. Unleash your inner bull.

8. Put salt in your shoes

If you're going hard at it in the gym, your runners are going to take some serious wear and tear. They're also going to absolutely reek. Try sprinkling some salt in them when you get home, it should kill the odour and absorb the moisture. No one wants to work out in mouldy gear.

9. Get a sports massage

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. A massage can enhance your performance, accelerate rehabilitation and gives you a better chance of avoiding injury during your workouts. If you're interested in improving your workout in 2018, then Irish Life Health will go further to keep you healthy. You can claim up to €250 back with their new BeneFit Plan and members can claim money back on loads of things, including sports club or gym memberships, children’s fitness classes, dieticians or nutritionists, sports massage, fitness wearables and life coach consultations. Call 1890 71 66 66 or visit Irish Life Health to find out more. Irish Life Health dac is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Terms and conditions apply. Call us to see exactly what’s covered. Brought to you by Irish Life Health