If you want to make the most of the time that you put into your workouts, the last thing you want to do is waste your precious time. One of the things that you can do to make sure that you get your workouts done fast is by being aware of your timing.

Listen, in the real world you’re not the only one who will be working out in the gym. There may very well be someone already using the machine you need or even a line of people waiting for their turn. The last thing you want to do is waste time waiting for a machine to become available. You should of course feel comfortable enough to ask the person on a taken machine how many sets they have left. If it turns out that they still have more than one set to go or if there are other people waiting to use it, don’t wait, you’ll blow the whole workout!

When this happens (and trust me, it will), you need to know what alternative exercises are available, so that you can keep the workout flow moving along. Ask a floor trainer or someone who you trust, what some alternative exercises are.

Once you know the alternatives to the exercises in your workout, nothing can take you off course. It's easy to become distracted during a workout. Whether it's waiting for a macine or someone who wants to chat, it's something you're going to have to deal with. Empower yourself by both, by preparing for these things. Get to know the alternative exercises and learn how to tell people that you need to focus on your workout and save the discussion for another time. You don't need to be rude, but being direct is a good thing!

Keep Going!

James Villepigue CSCS