Instead of thinking of this as your one-stop-shop gym guide, think of it as an intro to some of the top most popular exercises, and how to perform them properly. Once you have a handle on the basic exercises below, try out some of the advanced alternatives to step up your exercise game!
#1 Burpee
#2 Bodyweight Squat
#3 Lunges
#4 Plank
Shown: Advanced movement. Side plank.
#5 Bench Press
#6 Kettlebell Swing*
#7 Lat Pulldown
#8 Russian Twist
#9 Leg Press
#10 Curl
Sources:
We're "Trimming the Fat and Keeping the Muscle" on today's episode of the Living Healthy Podcast! On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, just in time for Thanksgiving, we learn about trimming or "cutting" the fat after you finish the bulking phase. This is...
It's easier to work hard when you’ve got a game plan. Here are some options to help keep you moving until the last second of your workout!
On today’s episode, you’ll hear from one of our own Master Trainers about what you should be eating and how you should be exercising during your bulking phase.
My name is Al Allen. The members of my family are the jewels in my crown. My beautiful wife Jude gave me the blessing of two boys; Jacob, 21; and Seth, 14. Since he could barely walk, Seth loved basketball. Even at the age of five, he begged me to teach him and I did, passing on all I learned from my college career. While little league provided highlights and memories when Seth because an eighth grader the competition became more serious. I asked him what he wanted to accomplish his last season of middle school and he said, “Dad, I want to be one of the best players ever to play at my school.” I believed he possessed the ability to attain that ambition.
So, I created a PowerPoint presentation for Seth. The first slide simply consisted of ten words. The next slide listed the goals that he would need to achieve in every game he played in the upcoming season (best shooter, best ballhandler, most athletic player, etc.) The next slide covered the eleven strategies it would take to ascertain those goals. And the next eleven slides itemized five to eleven objective to accomplish those strategies. The season started in three months and the work we committed to seemed daunting. Seth could complete a few of the objectives when he woke up and after finishing his homework. But for most of his training, only one place contained everything we needed to accomplish his vision: LA Fitness.
With all of this in mind, we began our training. LA Fitness became our second home. We trained there three to four times a week, sometimes arriving at six in the morning so we could practice in the gym by ourselves. LA Fitness accommodated [everything we needed]. Seth worked on getting stronger, faster, and quicker. We performed numerous shooting and ballhandling drills. I would play him one on home, mentoring him [on] what he just learned. Then, he would lift weights and complete a plyometrics workout, jumping over boxes and between ropes. Once a week, we would play in a pick-up game at LA Fitness, applying what he learned during the week. We did this for three months. A week before the season began, we played our last pick-up game against college players and adults. One of the adults couldn’t believe how well Seth shot during warm-ups. I told him “you haven’t seen anything yet.” Our team won with [me and Seth] scoring all our team’s points. Of course, it didn’t matter that he scored twenty-four of those points and I scored six. Afterward, I told him “you play the season l.ike you played in that last game, you will become a legend at your school and they will talk about you for years to come. You are ready.”
And ready, he was. He led his team in scoring, rebounding, assists, blocks, and steals. He played every position on the floor. His dexterity and skills made him unstoppable [at times]. His team finished the season tied for first place in their division. He made the All-Conference team. But we both knew even after his astonishing season, to accomplish his mission, his team would need [to] win the city championship. To succeed, his team would need to win five games in a row against the best teams in the city. Before the first game, I told him he may need to make game-winning shots to advance. I asked him about his nerves. I said confidently “Dad, this is what I trained for.” As if I prophesized it, he dominated and made incredible plays in the last moments to win every game including the city championship. His team won it all as the tournament declared Seth the most valuable player of the entire city tournament. Seth’s school won their first city championship in school history. I think I can say that my son accomplished his vision of becoming one of the greatest players ever at his middle school.
That week produced one of the greatest memories for my family. Seth’s team winning the championship took great coaches and teammates. It took his mom taking him to doctor’s appointments for therapy after injuries during the season. It took multiple motivational speeches from his big brother, Jacob. It took my mentorship. It even took his grandmother’s prayers when shooting free-throws in the last minute. But mostly, it took Seth’s talent, hard work, and character. However, none of it would have been possible without LA Fitness. LA Fitness provided all the tools to assist Seth in fulfilling his potential as a middle school basketball player. Ironically, I can’t help but think of a million commercials where actors pretend a product caused an indispensable impact on their lives. But the Allens are not actors. LA Fitness did offer us indispensable service to accomplish a dream of my son’s. These videos and pictures are not manufactured. This story is not scripted. All of it happened. Most importantly, LA Fitness helped a father and son become even closer. And, by the way, LA fitness helped me lose thirty-five pounds in the last year.
Seth accomplished one dream but a lifetime of dreams light his path and he is just getting started. I will say [this] about Seth, you haven’t seen anything yet.
See you at 6:00AM.
Sincerely,
A proud dad of two boys and a proud member of LA Fitness
LA Fitness member, Nick L., shares how he dropped 102 pounds over the course of the last year! His piece of advice: "consistency is key!"
LA Fitness member, Henry B., shares his skepticism about the gym, how he found a workout routine he enjoyed, and the changes it all made in his life.
Ever struggled with wanting to lose weight but haven’t found the results you’ve been looking for? Personal training might be the best way for you to go.
LA Fitness Pro Results® Master Trainer, Morgan C., gives her expert advice on which machines offer a full body workout.
Do you have a fitness question? Ask one of our certified Pro Results® trainers here! Your question may be featured in an upcoming Ask Our Trainer video.**
**Selected submissions will be featured on the LA Fitness blog and possibly other LA Fitness digital media entities & websites. By making a submission, you hereby grant LA Fitness a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide, irrevocable license to use and make copies of the contents of such submission for any purpose and in any medium whatsoever, and you hereby waive and relinquish any copyright or other intellectual property right you may have in the contents of such submission and your right to pursue any claim for LA Fitness’s violation of those intellectual property rights.
On this episode of ‘Ask A Trainer’ we speak with LA Fitness Pro Results® trainer Morgan C., and get her expert advice on how to properly maintain muscle mass.
On this episode of ‘Ask A Trainer’ we speak with LA Fitness Pro Results® trainer Morgan C., and get her expert advice on which machines offer a full body workout.
On this episode of ‘Ask A Trainer’ we speak with LA Fitness Pro Results® trainer Morgan C., and get her expert advice on whether or not strength training or cardio should come first when it comes to weight loss.
“The best way to achieve fitness goals is to find a mentor who has a passion [for] fitness who can keep you motivated. If you are just starting out, it is great to find someone who started where you are and has made improvements. If you have been working out for a while and want to get to that next level of peak shape, find someone who has that similar shape.”
Before: January 2014
Current Fitness Goals
My current fitness goals are focused on reaching my ideal weight of 155 lbs. My areas of focus are mastering squats and increasing the size of my arms and legs.
Training Influence
The facilities at LA Fitness have made my workouts more efficient. I am able to access the equipment that I want to use even when I work out at peak times. I also have also learned from other LA Fitness members and gained lifting experiences that have helped me make progress toward my goals.
Caleb’s Story
In my senior year of college, while I was still living in Boston, I was looking for a better gym that had all the equipment and weights that I needed. I had tried so many gyms before I became an LA Fitness member. After a week trial at LA Fitness, I decided to sign up. LA Fitness has taken my fitness lifestyle to the next level. Every day after school or work, I would drive to LA Fitness to work out. Sometimes it would take over an hour if I hit bad traffic. LA Fitness provides all the equipment and weights that I was looking for. It helps me lift heavier and achieve my fitness goals. When I relocated to Springfield, I was happy to find another LA Fitness. It had the same high-level facilities. Currently, I usually work out five to six days a week. I like working on a single muscle each day. I have put on a few pounds of muscle since I started to work out at LA Fitness. I am so happy with the changes over these past few months and I am still going. For my diet routine, I consume a lot of protein and carbs every day and drink more than a gallon of water. I usually have a protein shake after I work out. Having enough protein helps my muscle recover faster and maximize my muscle growth.
After: February 2018
After: February 2018
After: February 2018
LA Fitness member, Nick L., shares how he dropped 102 pounds over the course of the last year! His piece of advice: "consistency is key!"
LA Fitness member, Henry B., shares his skepticism about the gym, how he found a workout routine he enjoyed, and the changes it all made in his life.
Ever struggled with wanting to lose weight but haven’t found the results you’ve been looking for? Personal training might be the best way for you to go.
It’s the start of the New Year, which means endless possibilities for what you can accomplish in the twelve months that lay ahead! A fresh start, a clean slate, a brand-new year! It’s exciting just thinking about the positive changes that can be made. For many, taking control of their fitness and nutrition tops the list of changes wanted. While not everything in life can be controlled, your fitness and diet can be. Positive and healthy changes made to these parts of your life can transfer to other aspects of your life too! This probably leaves you asking yourself, “Where do I begin? How do I start?”
A great place to help kickstart a new positive change is to surround yourself with other like-minded individuals. That old saying about you becoming who you surround yourself with is pretty accurate. Chances are that if you’re around a group who prioritizes the importance of fitness and focuses on healthier eating habits, they’ll help inspire you to do the same – and keep you motivated!
That is why joining a local gym may be the key factor needed to accomplish your goals. However, for some people, this can be scary. There’s the pressure of thinking you already need to be in somewhat decent shape before joining or the fear of not knowing what to expect that can be holding you back. Change can be scary but change causes growth and growth in a positive direction is worth a bit of uncomfortableness in the beginning. Trust us, your future healthier self will thank you.
To put some of the unknown scariness of joining a gym aside, we’ve compiled a list of what you can expect when joining an LA Fitness.
You can always try us out first! Click here for a guest pass.
Once you’re all signed up you’ll have access to –
Group Fitness Classes
You’ll have access to many different options for group fitness classes including member favorites like cycle, yoga, and Zumba®. Group Fitness is a great place to begin if you don’t know where to start with gym equipment. It’s a fun way to keep your cardio options interesting so you never get bored during a workout again. Plus, some Group Fitness classes incorporate weight training or body weight exercises, meaning you can get your strength training in this way too!
Pool*
Our pools are kept at a comfortable temperature in the low 80’s. Swimming doesn’t just have to be saved for the summer months. Try out a Group Fitness Aqua Fit class for some low impact cardio or enjoy the swimming lanes on your own when classes aren’t in session. The pool can even be a great way to unwind after a tough workout. Certain clubs even have a spa available to all members to relax in and help loosen up the muscles after a long day. Make sure to check to see if your club has these options available.
Weight Room
Each LA Fitness weight room typically boosts over 20,000 pounds of free weights for members to use. Dumbbells start at 5lbs. and go all the way up to 100 lbs. There are also plate weight options, barbell options, and resistance training equipment. The variety ensures that there’s a little something for everyone, depending on your fitness level and weight training preferences.
Locker Room
The locker room is the one place you’ll want to visit every time you work out in our gyms. With full-sized lockers, showers, a dry sauna, and restrooms, you’ll definitely benefit from our spa-like amenities. Just make sure to bring your own lock and please remember that lockers are for day use only. Some clubs even provide a towel service in case you left yours at home.*
Cycle
Our cycle equipment is available for Group Fitness classes and solo workouts. In a Group Fitness setting, riders can expect to pedal a distance of 15 to 20 miles in a one-hour class! Cycle can be a great way to get in some HIIT training, otherwise known as high-intensity interval training. For those new to cycle, don’t let the distance or high intensity scare you away. Each class starts off at a beginner’s pace which you’re able to stay at until you get comfortable to pick your speed up. As long as you keep the pedals moving, you’re doing your body some good.
Cardio
Ellipticals, treadmills, cross-trainers, stationary bikes, and stair climbers are what you can expect to find in the cardio section of an LA Fitness. If you’re not one for Group Fitness classes, these might be a better option for you to still get your cardio in. With plenty to choose from, you have the option to train different parts of your body, to choose a low impact or high impact option, or to simply switch up the routine if things get stale with your workouts. (It’s good to switch up your workout roughly every two weeks anyway to keep the body surprised!)
Pro Results® Personal Training*
This is the best option if you’re looking for someone to help hold you accountable for your workouts and make sure you’re doing the correct workout each time you’re in the club. It’s important to mention that when you join Pro Result® Personal Training, you’re not just being told what to do and how many times a week to do it, but you’re learning as well. You’ll be paired with a trainer that knows your specific goals and how to help you accomplish them. During your training, you’ll learn what equipment works best for you, helpful tips on cardio versus strength training, and how you can better improve your diet.
Selectorized Equipment
We recommend our selectorized equipment stations for those who are new to working out. These machines often times will help you focus on form to help you better understand how to do the exercise without causing injury to yourself. These machines can be adjusted to your strength level and height, and there are machines designed to focus on specific target areas. If you’re unsure how to use a piece of equipment, there’s usually a sticker diagram attached the machine showing you how to use it properly. If you’re still unsure, visit our personal training department and have them help you.
Basketball/Club Leagues*
Our basketball courts are full length and built for free play. They can also double as a volleyball court. Basketballs and volleyballs are provided for players to use during their time in the gym. For those who are looking for something more than freestyle pickup games, some LA Fitness clubs offer leagues you can join for an additional cost. Ask the front desk of your club for more details.
Racquetball/Club Leagues*
Racquetball courts can be reserved on the LA Fitness mobile app for up to two hours of play time. If you choose not to reserve online, you can also come in to the club and grab a free court. They are first-come, first-serve. For those who are looking for something more competitive, some LA Fitness clubs offer leagues you can join for an additional cost. Ask the front desk of your club for more details.
Stretching Area
The stretching area helps you recover after a hard workout. By taking 10 to 15 minutes to stretch after your workout, you can help lengthen your muscle tissues which will help you recover faster and get stronger. Nobody wants a pulled muscle – that’s why there’s an area dedicated to post-workout rest and stretch.
Kids Klub*
Perfect for the busy moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas, and anyone else who may be responsible for watching the little ones while also trying to get their workout in. Our staff make sure your child is watched after, and safe and secure, while you enjoy your workout in peace. Check your home club for Kids Klub hours.
Front Desk/Mobile Check-in
The mobile check-in is a fast and convenient way to get your workout started faster. Have your phone out, the app ready, and simply scan your way in when entering the club to save you time at check-in.
Some additional member and non-member benefits include access to:
What are your health and fitness goals? Let us know in the comments below!
Click to explore our clubs, here.
*Amenities and classes vary by location. Some amenities and classes may be available for an additional fee. Pro Results® Personal Training requires an additional fee and entry into a separate agreement.
We're "Trimming the Fat and Keeping the Muscle" on today's episode of the Living Healthy Podcast! On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, just in time for Thanksgiving, we learn about trimming or "cutting" the fat after you finish the bulking phase. This is...
It's easier to work hard when you’ve got a game plan. Here are some options to help keep you moving until the last second of your workout!
On today’s episode, you’ll hear from one of our own Master Trainers about what you should be eating and how you should be exercising during your bulking phase.
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