Getting Fit Without the Stress: Tips from a Fitness Expert
As summer approaches, many people are hitting the gym more often. This trend is common as they aim to boost their fitness routines just in time for the warm weather. According to Kenny Santucci, a fitness trainer and owner of a gym, the key to looking and feeling your best is simply to move.
In a recent chat, Santucci offered some straightforward advice. He understands that not everyone enjoys the same exercises. For example, he openly admits that he’s not a fan of back squats. Instead, he chooses alternatives like leg presses or lunges on leg day. “I don’t like back squats, but I still make sure to do something,” he said, emphasizing the importance of staying active.
Santucci believes that the average person doesn’t need to stick to a strict workout program. “You don’t have to follow a rigid routine,” he explained. When a particular exercise starts to feel like a chore, it can be hard to stay motivated. He encourages people to mix things up with different activities they enjoy. “Even if it’s just swinging a kettlebell or pushing a sled, just move!”
He wants everyone to look forward to their workouts rather than dread them. The goal, he says, is to make going to the gym a habit where you think less about whether to go and more about what you’re going to do when you arrive.
Santucci emphasizes that while any movement is good, not all exercises will help you build muscle effectively. He recommends incorporating more strength training into your routine, lifting weights that challenge you. “Strength training should be at the core of your workouts,” he said. It’s important to work at about 60% to 80% of your capacity to see the best results.
Lastly, Santucci reminds us that building muscle requires effort—both in terms of lifting weights and consuming enough protein to support growth. However, he’s also clear about wanting everyone to enjoy their fitness journey. “Working out shouldn’t just be about difficulty,” he noted. It’s all about making progress and finding what works for you.
So as you gear up for summer, remember: Just keep moving and find joy in your workouts!
