Welcome, contenders! If you’ve been glued to the TV, watching the adrenaline-pumping return of Gladiators on BBC One, you might be feeling inspired to transform your fitness routine.
The hit TV show, which burst onto our screens in 1992, is back again with a bang. The programme’s format pits two male and two female contestants against each other, as they compete in a series of physically challenging events in a battle with the show’s resident ‘Gladiators’, to win a place in the final.
It’s hard not to admire the strength and stamina on display, albeit dipped in fake tan and clad in colourful lycra. And there’s much to be learned from the16-strong team of gladiators, not to mention the truly awesome contenders for the title – the general public.
It’s an hour of pure entertainment, hosted by father and son duo Bradley and Barney Walsh, but with some real feats of endurance and jaw-dropping challenges. Keep your eyes peeled for Collision, Dual, Gauntlet and old favourite, Hang-Tough. They’ll have you questioning your own physical capabilities and testing your nerve before the 60 minutes is up.
Are you ready for the challenge?
Whether you’re a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just starting your journey, read on for our quick guide on how to train like a contender and take your workouts to the next level.
1. Set Clear Goals
- Identify specific, achievable fitness goals. Whether it’s building muscle, increasing endurance, or shedding a few pounds, having clear objectives will keep you motivated.
2. Diversify Your Workouts
- Keep things exciting by incorporating a variety of exercises. Gladiators are well-rounded athletes, so mix in strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises to achieve a balanced physique.
3. HIIT it Hard
- High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) mirrors the fast-paced challenges of the Gladiators arena. Short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief rest periods not only torches calories but also improves cardiovascular health.
4. Nutrition Matters
- Fuel your body with the right nutrients. Make sure to eat a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Proper nutrition is crucial for energy, muscle recovery, and overall performance.
5. Stay Hydrated
- Water is your best friend during workouts. Proper hydration supports endurance, aids in recovery, and helps maintain overall health. Consider sipping on water infused with oxygen encapsulation technology, like EI8HT for an extra boost.
6. Recovery is Key
- Adequate rest is essential for muscle recovery and overall wellbeing. Make sure to get enough sleep, and think about incorporating activities like yoga or stretching into your routine to enhance flexibility and reduce muscle soreness.
7. Supplement Your Training with Oxygen
- Just like Gladiators have their weapons, you can enhance your performance by incorporating supplemental oxygen into your training plan. Oxygen plays a vital role in energy production, and using a device like the ClearO2 inhaler cap can, can provide a safe and controlled boost during intense workouts.
8. Mind-Body Connection
- Channel your inner Gladiator by fostering a strong mind-body connection. Practice mindfulness, visualisation, and focus during your workouts to optimise performance and stay in the contender mindset.
9. Track Your Progress
- Keep a training journal or use fitness apps to monitor your progress. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and use setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow.
10. Join a Community
- Training is more enjoyable and sustainable when you have a supportive community. Join a fitness class, find a workout buddy, or engage with online communities to share experiences and stay motivated.
