Update

Now that I have gotten into my new workout routine, mentioned here, I figured I would give you an update on how it is going and what I have been doing. I have really focused on resistance training for muscle growth and interval runs for cardio, I explain the interval runs here. Here is a sample of my workout week...

Day 1: Chest and Triceps, followed by a 20 minute interval run
Day 2: Legs, followed by a 30 minute medium run or ab workout
Day 3: Back and Biceps, followed by a 20 minute interval run
Day 4: 4 mile timed run, ab workout
Day 5: Shoulders, ab workout, stretching or cross training
Day 6: Long run (up to 6 miles)
Day 7: Rest Day

I have really enjoyed this plan as I change up my routine daily and get to work specific muscle groups. Most of the exercises I do, I complete 3 sets with a high number of reps (12-15). I use dumbells for many exercises instead of machines and am constantly moving from one exercise to the next to keep my heart rate up.

I enjoy the interval runs because they are tough but they don't last long so I don't get as bored. I still have intentions of possibly training for a marathon so I need to keep up my endurance running as well.

Based on your goals, you can alter this routine to fit. Do you want to build more muscle? Incorporate more weight training into your routine, and don't overdo the cardio. Do you want to train for a long distance run? Incorporate more longer runs, instead of the interval runs. Do you want to burn fat? Incorporate more weight and resistance training, and do interval cardio sessions.

I have really enjoyed these past weeks because I have defined a definate plan but I am constantly changing up my exercises to keep my body guessing. What a lot of people don't realize is how important recovery is after a tough workout. More on that soon!