Now that you’ve concluded that you need to start exercising more, you might be wondering how to get started with your new fitness regimen. There are hundreds of different things you can do to get fit, so the first step in starting your journey is figuring out what form of exercise you want to do and how you want to do it, or if you want to incorporate multiple methods.
While many people have realized the importance of staying fit, not everyone knows how to get started with their fitness journey. Whether you’re looking to get fit or lose those last 10 pounds, it’s essential to realize that there is no best exercise—just better ones. Rather than doing more exercise overall, you must zero in on what works best for your body and stick with it. Here are some tips on how to start your fitness journey safely and effectively.
Pick Exercises You Enjoy
There’s no point in hitting the gym if you dread every second of it—and never look forward to your next session. Choose exercises that match your personality, lifestyle, and fitness goals. If you hate running but love dancing, don’t join a marathon training group. Instead, try Zumba or CrossFit! Don’t underestimate how important exercise enjoyment is to achieve results; form follows function, so pick activities that speak directly to your health and well-being goals.
Find a Fitness Buddy
Exercise can be more fun when you have a workout buddy. Plus, if you plan on spending more than a few days a week working out, it can be helpful to find someone who shares your schedule so that neither of you falls off track. When you make exercise part of your daily routine with a workout buddy, it’s harder to skip sessions and easier to stay motivated.
Set Small Goals First
No one expects you to hit your target weight or run a marathon on day one. That’s why it’s so significant that you set small, attainable goals and stick with them until they become habits. Each time you achieve something — whether exercising for 30 minutes a day or losing 5 pounds—you will feel as though your fitness journey is moving forward. Eventually, you’ll have acquired enough habits and reached your goal weight!
Start Eating Healthy
Eating right is one of your most important jobs as a fitness enthusiast. The easiest way to get started is by choosing fresh, whole foods over processed ones. Put down that bag of chips and eat some carrots instead. When you’re ready to take it up a notch, opt for lean protein like chicken or turkey with every meal, at least three times per day. You can store fresh food in decorative cellophane bags if you won’t be able to finish it before its expiration date. It will also be more convenient to store food since they are lightweight and can help food last longer.
Schedule and Add It to Your Routine
To start working out regularly, schedule it into your day planner or calendar. Put a reminder in your phone, and stick with it! A great way to get going is by meeting up with a friend. You’ll be more likely to show up if you’ve already committed with someone else to do the workout with you. Also, getting sweaty with a friend will leave you feeling motivated.
Remember, though — if you don’t have time to exercise three times per week, don’t force yourself. Fit in what you can when it works best for your schedule, even just 30 minutes of physical activity every few days can help improve overall health and happiness.
Try to Be Consistent
The most successful fitness routines are those that keep a steady schedule. Aim to work out at least three times a week, or five days if you’re working on strength-building exercises. Consistency is important because it helps you get into a routine and makes it easier to stay motivated. The more you work out, the better you’ll feel about yourself—and since exercise increases self-confidence, it becomes easier and more natural to keep working out and reaching your goals!
If you’re starting your fitness journey, there are some things you should consider doing. First and foremost, start a journal and track your workouts, diet, and sleep habits. This is invaluable information that will keep you motivated as well as accountable for how you spend your time and money. Recording how much weight you lift each week or month will also be very helpful when it comes time to chart your progress.
Meta title: Beginning Your Journey Towards Healthy and Fitness
meta desc: So you might keep on thinking about starting your exercises tomorrow, but don’t procrastinate. Start today by reading these ideas for your fitness journey.