Mr Gregory

 

Checking email, texting, taking water breaks -squeezing in a good workout can be tough, what with everything else you’re doing at the gym.

Recently, Men’s Health surveyed more than 500 men on how many distractions they face while working out during. They found on average these distractions are potentially sucking up nearly half of an hour- long session; which may be the difference between the body you want and the body you have.

Mobile Phone Distractions

Find yourself sending multiple texts between your sets/reps? Ask yourself this question: What the hell am I doing at the gym? You’re blowing valuable lifting time and membership money with every message.

At the very least, wait until your cool down before you start tapping on the smartphone again. Try switching your phone to airplane mode as soon as you pull into the parking lot.

Standing Around

Men in the survey spent almost 10 percent of their time waiting for, resetting, or cleaning equipment. Try recruiting a partner. While you finish your sets, he or she can rerack weights or scope out machines that are about to free up; then you two can switch.

Talking

Someone trying to bend your ear? Wear headphones—even if you’re not listening to music. This sends a clear signal that small talk isn’t welcome.

Rest Sets

Just because you’re resting doesn’t mean you’re resting effectively, especially if you’re slacking off between sets after rushing through exercises.

For a standard routine—say, 3 sets of 8 to 12 reps for five or more exercises—plan on 60 to 90 seconds of rest between efforts.