Working out can be an intimidating thing especially for those who have never tried before and really have no clue as to what to do. This is a quick guide to introduce the reader to basic workout routines for beginners.

There is no single form of workout that suits everyone alike, and this is not just because of different needs, but also because of personal preferences. There are several different types of workout routines. Primarily, workout routines can be divided into two basic categories, and these include strength training workouts and cardiovascular workouts. In addition, there are also a number of specialty workout routines that one can turn to. For more information, read on.

Strength Training Programs

A number of offer varied benefits, and these essentially rely of specific targets, needs, requirements, limitations, etc. For instance, you could come by workout resistance training programs that rely solely on the use of equipment like stretch bands; programs which do not use any kind of equipment; programs meant specifically for obese people; programs for the elderly; and so on.

When it comes to building muscles and increasing strength, one can turn to different kinds of strength training workout routines. Some examples of popular strength training programs include , the Onus Wunsler Beginner Program, , and Iron Addict’s Simple Power Based Routine.

These routines, you should know, do vary in various ways. Starr’s routine, for instance, focuses on rotating between heavy intensity, medium intensity, and light intensity days (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday). It essentially makes use of bench presses, power lifting, and squats.

A , it is seen, not only helps you build muscles, but can also help quicken the weight loss process and improve energy levels.

Weight Training/ Weight lifting Programs

A weight training program involves using weights in the form of barbells, dumbbells, or other weight machines. With men, who have higher testosterone levels in comparison to women, weightlifting programs can result in a visible increase in muscles, although, with women, they simply help in toning the muscles without having too much of an effect in building mass. Resting your muscles, however, is crucial when it comes to weight training, and it is suggested that you do not exercise that same body part for two days in a row.

Weightlifting, as a sport, is a whole different ball game, and needs expert supervision, especially when one is starting out on a weightlifting program.

Cardiovascular Training

If you are looking at losing weight, it is important that you include some form of cardiovascular workout in your fitness regimen. This is simply because cardiovascular exercises like swimming, running, cycling, and rowing are great when it comes to burning calories, which translates into burning fat, which, in turn, results in weight loss. In addition, cardio workouts also help in conditioning the heart.

There’re fairly new techniques like the which use an amalgamation of different existing ideas to offer better results. The P90X, a workout program designed to be carried out from your home, uses a mix of periodization and cross training techniques along with a suggested nutritional plan to result in ongoing improvements without one’s hitting a plateau, and is believed to have a significant effect on one’s fitness levels within three months.

Eventually though, what workout plan will work best for you depends on how interesting you find it. If you find your workout routines to be boring, there is little chance that you will continue for long, and this makes it important that you look for something that interests you. The effort you put into the program will also play a big role, although what you should remember is that overdoing things could result in more harm than good.