The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Fitness Vocabulary
If you’re new to the world of fitness, it can be overwhelming to understand the terminology that comes along with it. From the different types of workouts to the various muscle groups, there’s a lot to learn. This ultimate guide to understanding fitness vocabulary will take you through some of the most common words and phrases that you will come across on your fitness journey.
Cardio
Cardio refers to any exercise that raises your heart rate. This could be anything from jogging to cycling to using an elliptical machine. Cardio is important for maintaining good health and increasing endurance.
Resistance training
Resistance training, also known as strength training, involves using weights or resistance bands to create tension in your muscles. This kind of training is essential for building muscle mass, increasing strength and toning your body.
HIIT
HIIT stands for High-Intensity Interval Training. This kind of workout involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by short rest periods. It’s a great way to burn fat and improve cardiovascular fitness in a short amount of time.
Core
Your core refers to the muscles in your midsection, including your abdominal muscles, lower back muscles, and your obliques. These muscles are important for maintaining good posture, stability and preventing injury in other parts of your body.
Reps and Sets
Reps and sets refer to the number of times you perform an exercise and the number of times you repeat that exercise. For example, you might do 3 sets of 10 reps of bicep curls. This means you perform bicep curls 10 times in a row, rest and then repeat the exercise two more times.
DOMS
DOMS stands for Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness. This is the soreness you feel in your muscles a day or two after a workout. It’s a sign that your muscles are adapting to the new stress that you have placed on them.
Rest days
Rest days are just as important as workout days. It’s important to give your body time to recover and repair after a workout. This can include taking a day off from your exercise routine, doing a lower-intensity workout, or practicing active recovery like foam rolling or stretching.
Macros
Macros, short for macronutrients, refer to the three main types of nutrients that your body needs: carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Balancing these nutrients correctly is important for maintaining good health and achieving fitness goals.
Calorie deficit
A calorie deficit occurs when you burn more calories than you consume. This is the key to losing weight and reducing body fat. You can achieve a calorie deficit through diet and exercise or a combination of the two.
Conclusion
Understanding fitness vocabulary is an important step towards achieving your fitness goals. Whether you’re new to working out or looking to push yourself to the next level, familiarizing yourself with these terms will help you navigate the gym with confidence. Remember to listen to your body, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the journey!
