You want to get into shape or maybe you have an injury and need to regain mobility. Knowing you want to get started is the very first step. However, the next one is to actually move. Starting a fitness routine can be overwhelming and confusing. There is so much information floating around and most contradicts the last article you just read. How do you even begin? We broke it down with just a couple of questions so grab a piece of paper and a pen and let’s get started.
1) Write down your goals
The first thing you will want to do is identify exactly what you want from a fitness routine. Be specific and honest about what you expect and desire. Try not to focus too much on a timeframe but rather on what you want to accomplish. Answer the following questions:
-Do you want to lose weight?
-Are you interested in increasing muscle tone and strength?
-Are you recovering from an injury or surgery?
-Are you interested in the mental benefits of physical activity?
-Do you need a general change in your life?
2) Identify interests
Next, identify what types of physical activity you are interested in. Have you always wanted to try a spin class or a boxing class or maybe you have always wanted to learn how to swim? Write down all the physical activities that you enjoy or that you find interesting. It is okay to go outside of your comfort zone. You are just exploring options and enjoying new activities. Learn more ideas for beginners.
3) Accessibility
The third step is to identify what type of access you have or can depend on. Focus on reliable means to reach your goals. This part is about highlighting how you will get to your workout sessions and exactly where it will be located. Answer the following questions:
-Do you have access to a gym that offers a free trial?
-Are you more interested in home workouts?
-Do you have internet access?
-Do you live near a field, track or trails?
All of these questions reflect the type of workout routine that fits you best and is realistic. Remember that it is important to customize your routine so that you will enjoy it more but also be more likely to maintain it. If you try a new activity and don’t really enjoy it then move on to something else. You want to allow yourself the opportunity to explore and try new things.
4) Connect the Dots
Once you have written everything down, go through all your answers and make connections. For example, you are interested in losing some weight, you have always wanted to try a spin class and you live near a gym that offers free trials. Inquire about a free class, try it out and see how you like it. Don’t ever feel pressured to signup or commit to 5 classes a week straight away. Take your time and test a few options out.
Another example might be:
You are interested in the mental benefits of exercise and have always wanted to try out boxing but you do not have access to a gym and you do have internet. In this instance, search YouTube for a boxing workout, clear some space in your house or outside and follow along to the video. Trust your body, don’t get overly concerned with making it perfect. The point is to move and reconnect the mind with the body.
Another example might be:
You are recovering from an injury, prefer to be in nature, and do not have access to transportation. In this instance going outside to gain mobility will also have huge mental health benefits. Studies have shown that exercising outside boosts positive energy 20% more than indoor exercising. Get out of the house and start moving around even small walks or a short stretching session will get you on the path to a full recovery.
Lastly
If all of this seems overwhelming, try basic moves in the house like push-ups, squats, crunches, jumping-jacks. Make a routine out of it by completing 10 or each, taking a one-minute rest and then repeat it three more times.
Fitness is about doing what you are capable of, having fun and pushing your own limits once you feel ready. It can be as basic as jumping-jacks in the house or as advanced as athletic training with a coach. You have the freedom to advance and make it as fun or serious as you desire.
Sometimes cutting away the overload of information to the basics allows you to have a clear vision and a navigated direction. This is the opportunity to try out something new and take classes to see if you enjoy them. Do not judge yourself but instead, go in fully expecting to enjoy the movement of the exercise.
