We asked the experts about the correct way to work out, so you can get the most from your training

Whether you prefer to run, swim, sweat it out in the gym or take a more measured approach in a yoga class, the way you exercise can be tailored and streamlined to maximise its benefits for your health. We spoke to the experts to find out how.

Get more from the gym

According to a recent US survey, one of the biggest mistakes people make in the gym is only focusing on certain parts of the body – e.g. abs or biceps – when you have to work your whole body to achieve a balanced look. ‘Many women make the mistake of not lifting weights,’ says Roberts. ‘They worry they’re going to build muscle, but they won’t have enough testosterone to do that.’ The gym drop-out rate is high as it can be dull. ‘Work out your goal for a month’s time and how you can achieve it,’ says Roberts.

Training drill

Try a half-hour peripheral heart action circuit. Alternate arm and leg exercises with a short rest inbetween. This keeps your heart pumping, so you’re working aerobically, as well as strengthening the whole body.

Top tips

• Have one heavy weights workout a week – two or three sets of 10-12 repetitions. They should be heavy enough to make you struggle to finish the last two repetitions of each set.
• Are you pushing yourself? ‘If you’re not puffing and panting two-thirds of the time, work harder,’ says Roberts.

By Karen Williamson