Summer Fitness: Expert Advice on Staying Active
As summer approaches, many people start thinking about hitting the gym. It’s clear that fitness routines vary widely, but one expert has some straightforward advice: “Just move.”
Kenny Santucci, a fitness trainer and podcast host, recently discussed how to meet fitness goals without the fear of training. He opens up about his own preferences, admitting he’s not a fan of certain exercises—like back squats. Instead, he opts for alternatives. “I hate back squats. I don’t like doing them,” he shared. Yet, he still incorporates squats into his routine, preferring pendulum squats, leg presses, and lunges instead.
On the topic of workout programming, Santucci expresses that while structured fitness plans have their place, they aren’t mandatory for the average person. “Is it necessary for a normal person living a normal life to follow a strict program? No,” he says. He understands that if working out feels like a chore, it can be tough to stick with it.
“If you’re thinking, ‘Oh, I need to work out my legs, and I don’t want to…’ then do something else,” he suggests. Just find a way to keep moving, whether that’s swinging a kettlebell or pushing a sled. “I want to encourage people, more than anything, to move.” Santucci emphasizes the importance of looking forward to working out, saying that asking yourself whether to go is unnecessary; just go and unleash your potential.
While generally promoting movement, he points out that not all exercises will yield the same results, especially in terms of muscle building. He often advises gym-goers to integrate more strength training into their routines and suggests lifting a bit heavier. “Strength training should be the foundation, not cycling,” he insists. “If cycling is your main form of exercise and your goal is aesthetics, you’re making it harder to reach that goal.”
He highlights the importance of pushing oneself to the point of fatigue during workouts, aiming for 60% to 80% of one’s full capacity. “If you’re not doing this, you probably won’t achieve the results you’re after,” he adds.
In discussing muscle growth, Santucci notes that without an external force challenging your muscles and proper nutrition, growth may not happen. Still, he believes in a well-rounded approach: “I encourage everybody to do everything.”
“Hard training doesn’t always equal effective training,” he explains. Achieving good results can come from smart training at a steady intensity. It’s not about doing something just to make it tough; it’s about making progress and aligning your workouts with your fitness goals.
