A workout is a session of physical exercise where you push your body to get stronger, faster, or healthier. When you do a workout, you might run laps, lift weights, practice yoga, swim, or do push-ups and sit-ups. The key is that you're intentionally making your muscles and heart work hard for a period of time.

Athletes do workouts to prepare for competition. A basketball player might do a workout that includes running drills, practicing shots, and building leg strength. A swimmer's workout might involve swimming dozens of laps at different speeds. Even people who aren't athletes do regular workouts to stay healthy and energetic.

A good workout leaves you tired but satisfied, like your body has accomplished something real. Your muscles might feel sore the next day, which is your body saying “I'm getting stronger!” Some people work out alone, while others prefer working out with friends or in classes.

The word can also mean solving a problem by working through it step by step. You might work out a tricky math problem or work out a disagreement with a friend by talking it through carefully.