New Tips And Triks For You

Here are some pointers to train just like an Olympian

By Melisa Raney, CNN Published: Wednesday, February 19, 2014, 9:00 pm

NEW YORK (CNN) - Watching Olympic athletes skate, ski, jump, and for a time fly can inspire us to take on new athletic challenge.

Though most of us will never make an Olympic team we can borrow a few training tips from these world class athletes and, like them, get the most out of our workouts.

Experts at Saint Louis University Medical Center say it all starts with setting a realistic goal. If you want to get into shape, don't push yourself to get fit too fast. Instead, like Olympic athletes, break the task down into a series of steps. Setting short term goals may help you stick to your long term overall goal.

Try training with a buddy or group, as Olympic athletes often do. This may help you stay motivated. Cross-training, or changing up the type of exercise you choose, is another way to help you get the most out of your workout. It can reduce injury from overtraining and can prepare you for a sport you can't practice day to day such as snow skiing.

We may not have the time to devote our lives to a sport, but we can learn from the intensity and determination of Olympians. When we take to the slopes, court, or go for jog, approach that time with focus and discipline; and take it up a notch.

We may not come home as champions, but it's a win for our overall health.

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