Did you get a good workout?

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Workouts vary in shape and sizes, so how do you know you got a good workout in? Here are a few signs outside of sweating that could indicate you conquered an awesome workout!
Image result for exercise no sweating
  • Your heart rate went up! If you are aiming to push yourself, generally keeping your heart rate at 70-75% of your maximum for at least 20 minutes will give you a great workout. We know what you're thinking..."that's adorable LiveWell but how do we know what 70-75% of our maximum heart rate looks like?" We are glad you asked! The easiest way to go about this is by calculating your age predicted max heart rate.
    • To calculate your age predicted maximum heart rate (HR): 220- your age= Max HR. For example: A 22 year old would calculate theirs by: 220-22= 198 beats per minute.
    • I don't have a heart rate monitor, so now what? Take it yourself!! All you need is a clock that counts seconds. Simply find your pulse and count how many times your heart beats in 15 seconds then multiply it by 4. This gives you your heart rate!
      Image result for getting your pulse on neck
      Example: during a workout if you have count 21 beats in 15 seconds, 21 beats x 4= 84 beats per minute!
  • You sleep better at night. Getting a good workout in can cause your muscles to feel sore or more exhausted compared to a sedentary day. Your body and brain uses that sleep time to recharge! Next time it is applicable, compare your sleep to a night when you did not exercise during the day.
  • You feel good! Exercise has a lot of physical benefits. It makes you stronger and improves heart health....but it is also great for stress management and self esteem!
Regardless of why you are working out, explore some of the positive effects it has on you outside of sweating. Happy exercising!!

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