FIT BITS

The body has an amazing ability to adapt. When living an active lifestyle, I am sure you are like me and want to get the maximum benefits for the work you do. The Overload Principle is a key component to take into consideration with any exercise regime.

The Overload Principle is the application of demand or resistance that is greater than those encountered in normal life. Simply stated, it means that the body will adapt to the stress placed upon it. The more you do, the more you are capable of doing. In order to continue to see results, the body must have a gradual increase of demand or resistance.

This is how training works. The concept works both in cardiovascular and weight training. Cardiovascularly (aerobically), you must push your body to do more than it is used to. When this happens, the body will adapt by increasing its endurance in the heart, lungs and cardiovascular muscles. Thus, seeing increased capacity as well as efficiency. When training for a cardiovascular event, a gradual overload must be placed on the body.

In weight training, muscles adapt and grow when they are forced to overcome resistance they are not used to.

Here are some additional ways to “overload” the body:
-Increased resistance to stair climber, bicycle or other cardio machine
-Increase weight, time, incline or accelerated speed in running, bicycling or other cardio machine
-When weight training: increase weight, force, sets and repetitions

This increased overload can occur weekly or as determined by your trainer.

Remember, it is always important to warm up, use proper technique and cool down when exercising. Consult a physician prior to beginning any exercise program.

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