Weird Workout Hacks that Actually Work

It's not hard to find hundreds of search results for workout tips when searching the internet. That's why I was on a mission to find quick and easy workout tips that actually work, proven by scientific studies. Below are my findings. 

Talk to Yourself

While most people get bothered, and slightly scared, by others who talk to themselves while working out, the results of a recent study might get you mumbling, too. In a study published in the Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise Journal, researchers found that physical exhaustion, or the desire to stop working out, is largely psychological. The study recommends consistent and orderly self-​​talk in order to produce desired effects. By using statements such as "I am strong," or "I can do two more reps," you may find yourself pumping out an extra rep or running longer than ever before.

Grow a Milk Mustache

Chocolate milk, that is. While some athletes turn to a post-workout protein shake, chocolate milk may be just as good of an option. Chocolate milk is a great blend of carbohydrates and proteins, all mixed into one. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition discovered that muscles' protein synthesis is greater when milk-​​based proteins are consumed post workout, versus soy-​​based proteins.

Hit the Coffee Shop

This may be no different than usual for you coffee ​​lovers out there, but studies show there is a perk to having coffee or caffeine before a workout. Not only can caffeine help you burn a greater number of calories during your workout, it also can delay depletion of muscle glycogen, according to an article by the American College of Sports Medicine.

Activate Your Glut-4

Doing 60 seconds of exercise right before eating and 60 seconds of exercise about 90 minutes after eating will activate your Glucose Transporter 4. Doing this will allow more calories to flow toward muscle cells than fat cells. Also known as glut-​​4, this naturally ​​occurring protein in your body can do amazing things with the excess sugar and calories in your body. 

The most effective workout tips are those that work for you. Every person's physical makeup is different, but most important, everyone's motivation for exercising is different. Some of the above tips may help you tremendously, and others not at all. Give them a try.

This article was authored by Michael Volkin, inventor of Strength Stack 52 body-weight exercise cards and the all-new Weight Loss Stack 52, the most fun and unique way to lose weight.

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