Workout Routines for Toning
From LoveToKnow Exercise
As sports medicine research becomes more sophisticated, you should expect to see many more workout routines for toning.
Best Toning Routines
These routines will combine different types of equipment as well as different methods of performing the exercise. While each method has its pros and cons, all are far better than the rolling and vibrating machines of the 1960s. As in all types of exercise, the best workout routines for toning are the ones:
- That you enjoy
- That suit your budget
- That fit with your time allotment
- That fit your space, if you plan to workout at home
- That are in line with your fitness goals
Choosing Workout Routines for Toning
When considering the various workout routines for toning, be sure to choose ones that you truly enjoy. After all, no matter much your best friend likes BodyPump, if you despise the music and the repetitive movements, you will never stick to the program.
Your budget should also be taken into consideration. That downtown gym might have fantastic equipment, but if you can’t keep up your monthly payments, they won’t let you keep your membership. Now, let’s talk about time. Will you really be able to get to that gym at lunch hour? Is it even usable after work, or will you be spending so much time waiting on line for equipment that you will barely get in a workout?
People who decide upon the home workout route need to measure their space before purchasing home exercise equipment. They should also purchase floor mats to muffle the sound of weights being dropped. Be considerate of your downstairs neighbors!
Finally, your fitness goals will influence your choice of strength training program. For example, a body builder will probably use a free weight training program, whereas someone who simply wants to tone up might combine free weights with machine training. Anyone who is interested in toning muscles to enhance their athletic proficiency might be interested in a strength-training program that integrates strength with balance. A program known as Integrated Training would be most suitable for this person.
What is Integrated Training?
The concept of Integrated Training was created by the National Academy of Sports Medicine. This highly organized toning and strengthening program works in progressive stages. In the early stages, you are working on postural correction, as well as techniques to enhance balance and stability. As you progress, traditional weight training exercises are followed by a balance exercise that uses the same muscle group. Here are some examples:
- Perform one set of bench presses and follow it with a push up
- Perform a traditional crunch and follow it with a stability ball crunch
- Follow a traditional side bend with a stability ball side bend
Since Integrated Training works with both traditional and balance training equipment, the toning effects are magnified. However, if your time and budget are limited, you might want to consider a simple stability ball toning workout.
Stability Ball Routines for Toning
Stability ball workout routines can help tone every muscle in the body. Since your core muscles need to be activated to maintain balance, you will be toning your abs with every exercise, even if the exercise is primarily for the upper or lower body.
Free Weights and Machines
Free weights and weight training machines are the most traditional workouts for toning. Which is better? The debate continues. Some people like machines, because they restrict the muscles that supposedly should not be used. However, those smaller muscle groups are known as assisters. They give your body that extra bit of definition. Since free weights are used without seat belts and other adjustments, the core muscles need to be used for stabilization.
A Game Plan for Toning
Try to keep your program fresh and updated. When you find yourself feeling burned out with a toning routine, experiment with a new one.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 1,731 times. This page was last modified 16:12, 8 January 2009.
© 2006-2009 LoveToKnow Corp.

Visit us on facebook