Sticking to an exercise routine is tough enough, but it can be disheartening if you're working out hard yet don't see results. If you're working out regularly but you're not noticing any significant changes, it may be time to streamline your approach to exercise. It's best to think of your workout as a three-step process: before, during, and after. Before throwing in the towel, try these tips to maximize your workout from start to finish; the results you're looking for may be closer than you think. 

Before You Begin

Your ideal workout truly begins before you take one step on that treadmill or lift one weight. First, it's vital to fuel your workout in the proper way. Eating a meal of slow-digesting carbs, such as oatmeal or a banana, will give your body the boost of energy it needs. Avoid carbs that break down too quickly, such as white bread, as these foods won't power you through the whole workout; instead, they will lead to an energy crash.

Also, be sure to hydrate properly. Drink plenty of water before your workout to ensure your body has enough hydration to function while you exercise. For an even bigger boost, make a special drink containing the best pre workout ingredients, such as caffeine, electrolytes, and taurine. After all, you have to replace the electrolytes your body loses when you sweat. 

Now that you're energized and hydrated don't forget to warm up your body correctly. Jumping directly into a workout without warming up first can increase your likelihood of injury as well as post-exercise stiffness and discomfort. Take about 5 to 10 minutes at the beginning of your workout to stretch properly, then do some gentle movement such as marching in place to get your blood pumping. 

During Your Workout

Be sure to vary your workouts, so you give each part of your body equal and adequate attention. Don't just do cardio and call it a day; you need to work your entire body to get sustainable results. Weight training is not only for those who want to gain muscle and get "ripped." Muscle burns more calories than fat, so in order to ensure your metabolism is working at peak efficiency, you have to maintain good muscle tone. A full body weight lifting routine will strengthen your body, help you lose weight, and keep you energized throughout the day. Don't forget to add in some pilates or yoga to keep your body limber and strong. Regardless of your workout type, don't forget to hydrate throughout. Keep a bottle of water beside you and take frequent sips during your workout. 

Wrapping It Up

Don't forget to cool down when you're done with your workout—stretching correctly and returning your body to a relaxed state after your training is just as important as the warm-up and the workout itself. Now is a great time to throw in a yoga routine: stretch out and wind your body down properly.

Be sure to eat plenty of lean protein after your workout to effectively build muscle and keep your furnace (metabolism) fueled to peak efficiency. Now is also not the time to skimp on hydration, so be sure to drink plenty of water after your workout, too. You can also make a post-workout drink or smoothie to give your body an extra boost to energize you throughout the rest of your day. 

Putting the same amount of care into each step of your workout will give you better results when you look in the mirror and ensure that your whole body will be hydrated, energized, and ready to take on whatever the day has in store for you. 

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