In some distant, parallel universe, the laws of responsibility are reversed. Work is something you do in your spare time. Working out, on the other hand, is an essential life task - something to which you devote countless hours to survive in society. In this bold, fitness-driven world, your benefits include being strong, looking fantastic and feeling even better. Life is good.

Reality check. No matter how much daydreaming you do, that alternate setting doesn't exist - unless your name is Jay, Ronnie or Victor, that is. In this time and place, working out plays second fiddle to a number of obligations. And since your time is valuable, you can't waste one second on a bad workout - hell, the good ones are tough enough to plan for. Strained reps, poor energy levels, incomplete sets, longer-than-desired workouts and shoddy results can leave you feeling like your time in the gym is all for naught. But there are things you can do before and after you head to the gym to ensure supercharged workouts today, tomorrow and beyond - tips that can improve your efficiency, strength, even your time spent with the iron. If you're going to schedule your day around the gym, make sure you head in there well-rested, your strength tank topped off, your playlist ready to go and the following pointers in tow. The result? A stronger, fitter body. Now that's a reality worth reaching for. Incorporate as many of these tips as possible to start maximizing the benefits of your gym time.

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