3 Things Trainers Say You Should Be Doing Differently At The Gym To Boost Your Heart Rate, Sweat More And Burn Calories

Shorter rests

Of course rest is important, especially if you’re looking to build muscle and strength. However, shortening the length of your rests between sets is one great way to keep your heart pumping and burn more calories. "You feel out of breath? You feel tired? Good, keep moving!" Kirkland urges. "When your heart rate is elevated, you are going to burn more calories and strengthen your cardiovascular system."

MacPherson recommends circuit training for a “heart-pumping cardio-based session that still uses resistance training.” She explains that "You can do circuits where you move from one weight-bearing exercise to another with little to no rest in between," which will "keep your heart rate up, burn massive calories, and boost your metabolism." Nice!

Compound exercises

Kirkland tells us that "the more muscles you use in a single exercise, the more calories you will burn," which is why going with compound exercises is a fantastic idea. "Do things like a squat shoulder press, one arm snatch, reverse lunge to bicep curl," he suggests. "Exercises like this are the best bang for your buck–you are able to get a full body workout with just a few exercises and they will definitely help you reach your fitness goals." And when you make them a regular part of your routine, your whole body will get stronger over time.

Lift heavier weights

This may sound like a no-brainer, but seriously: MacPherson says one of the best things you can do to get that heart rate going, that sweat flowing, and those calories burning is to lift heavier weights. "Heavier weights will require more power and effort, which will really get your heart rate up," she explains. "You'll burn more calories because you are using your muscles while building them, which increases metabolism as muscles are metabolically active."Got it!

At the end of the day, taking time out of your day to go to the gym is already one great step in the right direction when it comes to your health. But if you're ready to take things to the next level and burn even more calories, implementing these tips is a great way to do just that.