Train Smarter
Some people really enjoy spending time in the gym. Bodybuilders and competitors are often required to have long training sessions because of the high demand they place on their bodies. Others just like to be at the gym, hearing the weights clanging and seeing the people moving around working out. Even though I've known and trained many people like that, and even though I'm a trainer, I'm not one of those people who likes to be at the gym for hours. Actually, my preference is to be in the gym as little as possible, and to keep my workouts as short as possible. Don't get me wrong, the Bothell Gold's Gym that I train at is a fabulous gym, but I'd just rather work out at home or outdoors with my family whenever I can.
Another reason for not wanting to be in the gym any longer than necessary is that I absolutely believe that it is possible to be in excellent physical condition without having to spend hours working out. The average healthy person doesn't need to spend a lot of time in the gym to be exceptionally fit. Of course if you love to be in the gym then keep at it, but my personal philosophy is to train smarter rather than longer. Here's what I mean:
Intensity is what it takes to have effective workouts. The training principle is called overload. In order to improve, your body must continue to have more demand placed on it than what it can currently manage. In terms of physical fitness this is done by gradually adding resistance or difficulty to exercises. This intensity is the key to what it means to train smarter.
One way to make your workouts efficient and effective is by choosing exercises that challenge balance, coordination, flexibility, power, etc. while also building strength. For example, single leg squats will build strength while also developing balance and core stability. An entire workout of such exercises also makes the workout incredibly intense. By adding more intensity like this you'll develop all of the aspects of physical conditioning with less time in the gym, at home, outdoors, or wherever you choose to train.
Another great way to add intensity and efficiency to a workout is by completing multi-functional, compound, focused exercises in succession. For example, completing a circuit of compound exercises, including things like the side lunge with dumbbell lateral raise done in a slow and controlled yet fluid motion, will enable you to train all muscle groups while also developing your cardiovascular system. Keep in mind that proper form and isolation should be a primary focus, so it's important not to sacrifice these for the sake of accomplishing more in less time. Also keep in mind that not every exercise is right for every person, but with careful choices and modifications, even the most intense exercises can typically be done by novice and intermediate exercisers.