6 Training Tips to Prepare for a Workout Event

You won't win any workout event without training. When preparing to compete in
the Olympics, Michael Phelps reportedly swam 80,000 meters per week. Of course,
this paid off as Phelps now holds the record as the most-decorated Olympian with
28 medals to his name. So, if you're planning to participate in a workout event, consider
the six following training tips.

#1) Hit the Weights

Training for a workout event begins with hitting the weights. Running on the treadmill
or using an elliptical isn't an effective way to build muscle and increase your chances
of winning. On the contrary, too much cardio can actually backfire by lowering your
muscle mass. You'll achieve better results by lifting weights, focusing on short
intervals of heavy weights. Known as high-intensity interval training (HIIT), it's the
key to building bigger muscles and winning workout events.

#2) Rest and Recover

While lifting weights is important when training for a workout event, resting is
equally important. This is because HIIT weightlifting creates micro-sized tears in
your muscles, which is responsible for the soreness you feel after working out. If you
continue to lift weights without giving your body time to heal and recover, your muscles
will continue to break down. Therefore, most professional trainers recommend a 48-hour
period of rest between HIIT weightlifting.

#3) Adjust Your Diet

Whether you're training for CrossFit Open, Spartan Race or any other workout event,
you must adjust your diet for maximum performance. The foods you eat will directly
influence your strength and endurance. When evaluating your diet, focus on high-protein
foods that contain little to no added sugar. Protein is responsible for repairing and building
muscle tissue. Without protein, or enough protein, you'll experience reduced muscle mass
and slower recovery.

In addition to protein, you should also consume plenty of carbs in your diet. While protein
builds muscle tissue, carbs replenish this tissue with glycogen. According to Men's Fitness,
you should consume a 2-to-1 ratio of protein to carbs. If you consume 100 grams of protein
per day, you should strive for 50 grams of carbs.

#4) Perfect Your Form

Strength will only take you so far in a workout event. You must also perfect your form. This
is particularly important when participating in weightlifting events. Lifting weights while using
the wrong form could result in disqualification. Furthermore, it increases the risk of injury,
which is something no one wants to experience during an event. To prevent this from happening,
perfect your form in the weeks and days leading up to the event. If you need help, ask
someone at your gym for help. Alternatively, you can watch YouTube videos revealing the
correct way to perform a specific workout or exercise.

#5) Taper

What is tapering, and why should you do it when training? Tapering refers to the process
of reducing physical exercise in preparation of an upcoming event. If you usually spend
three hours in the gym, for instance, you should gradually reduce this time in the days
before your event. Rather than three hours, for instance, perhaps you can spend two hours
and then just one hour in the gym.

#6) Sleep

Don't underestimate the importance of getting enough sleep. Lack of sleep or poor quality
sleep slows down your metabolism, promotes higher levels of cortisol and interferes with
your body's ability to repair damaged muscle tissue. For these reasons, it's important that
you get a minimum of seven hours of high-quality sleep per night.

Workout events require thorough training as well as a strong mental mindset. By following
the tips outlined here, you'll gain an advantage on your competitors and increase your chances
of success.