There are endless physical and mental benefits of consistently following a good workout routine. Apart from their positive effects, many exercises are easy to manage and master over time if one commits to the task. However, it is also common for one to miss key steps and make mistakes while working out. While some lapses may be harmless, others can have serious consequences on health. So, here are critical fitness mistakes to avoid:

Choosing only cardio exercises
Cardio-based exercises could be running, hiking, cycling, walking, and quick sprints. These exercises boost endurance, stamina, and cardiovascular health. Despite all their benefits for the heart and lungs, only taking up cardio every day would make one miss out on other activities and the benefits they offer. Doing cardio exclusively only enhances some aspects of fitness. For instance, resistance training, which includes strength training exercises like resistance band workouts and plyometric exercises, improves the body’s flexibility and endurance in a different way. It also builds balance, coordination, and stability. So, one needs to prioritize overall fitness by incorporating different types of workouts into their routine.

Not drinking enough water
Water helps eliminate toxins from the body in the form of sweat and urine. Not drinking an adequate amount of water will interfere with this function. Further, during and after exercising, one needs to replace the fluids they lose in the form of sweat. Having enough water—at least 3 to 4 liters every day, if not more—improves blood circulation, speeding up the flow of oxygen to all organs. This, in turn, helps the joints and muscles heal quickly from intense workouts. One must drink plenty of water regularly, whether they have a rigorous fitness routine or not.

Working out excessively
Exercising daily is beneficial, but one should not over-exert themselves in the process. Health and fitness experts believe that one only needs to work out about 3 to 4 days a week and use the remaining time to relax. Working out too much or pushing the body excessively during sessions—lifting extremely heavy loads, finishing an unreasonably high number of reps per exercise, and spending a lot of hours in the gym—can lead to “overtraining syndrome”. This is a condition characterized by body pain, fatigue, diminishing returns, and persistent soreness.

Following the same routine for a long period
Workouts are meant to evolve with time. As the body gets used to certain exercises, one needs to challenge themselves by taking up other exercises. Not adding new workouts to the fitness routine can increase the risk of burnout or injuries. For instance, if one focuses on strength training for a month, they can add cardio or swimming to their routine.

Not getting enough sleep
Sleep helps the body recover after intense workouts. Sleeping for about 6 to 8 hours every night regulates the blood pressure and heals the body, making it stronger for the next day. So, one must never sacrifice sleep, especially when they are working out regularly.

Exercising with improper form
One has to position their body in a certain way to get the most out of their workout. Unless one fixes their posture for daily exercises, like yoga, lifting, resistance training, or running, they may not get to enjoy the benefits of the exercise. Additionally, exercising with an incorrect form can increase the risk of workout injuries.