Starting a physical fitness routine can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Set realistic goals: Before you begin, it’s important to set achievable and specific fitness goals for yourself. This could be anything from losing a certain amount of weight to being able to run a certain distance.
Consult with a professional: Consider consulting with a personal trainer or a doctor to help you create a fitness plan that is tailored to your specific needs and abilities. This will help ensure that you are starting off on the right foot and avoiding any potential injuries.
Start small: It’s easy to get overwhelmed when starting a new fitness routine. To avoid this, start with small, manageable goals and build on them as you progress.
For example, begin by walking or jogging for a few minutes each day, and then gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workout. Load up your phone or MP3 player with music to make the time more enjoyable. Keep in mind that many people find walking outdoors far more enjoyable than on a treadmill. You may, too. Walking or jogging won’t cost you a dime, either.
Find an activity you enjoy: The key to sticking with a fitness routine is to find an activity that you enjoy. This could be anything from swimming to dancing to weightlifting. Experiment with different activities until you find one that you look forward to doing. Avoid spending money on costly equipment or memberships until you are sure it’s an activity you will stick with. If you think you might enjoy joining a gym/fitness center, inquire about a free pass or limited time pass before committing to a full membership.
Track your progress: Keeping track of your progress can help you stay motivated and on track. Use a fitness tracker, an app, a journal or a notebook to log your progress, including the exercises you did, the distance you covered, and the weight you lifted.
Make it a habit: Incorporate your fitness routine into your daily routine and make it a habit. This could be by setting a regular time of the day for your workouts or by making it a part of your morning or evening routine.
Don’t forget nutrition: Nutrition is an extremely important part of reaching your fitness goals. Keep in mind, you don’t have to starve yourself or eat foods you don’t like. Thankfully, free websites and apps like MyFitnessPal (see above) can help you get started, determine your daily calories depending on your goals, and provide a way to track your food intake.
Be consistent: Consistency is key to achieving your fitness goals. Try to stick to your routine as much as possible and don’t give up if you miss a day or two. Remember that progress takes time and effort, so stay committed and stay the course.
Remember, starting a fitness routine is a journey, not a destination. It may take some time to see results, but the most important thing is to be consistent and enjoy the process.
