5 Steps to Kickstart Your Fitness Routine
Starting a fitness routine can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially if you're new to working out. The good news is that with a little guidance and preparation, you can set yourself up for success. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you begin your fitness journey on the right foot.
1. Set Clear and Realistic Goals
Before you hit the gym, take some time to define what you want to achieve. Setting clear, realistic goals will give you a sense of direction and motivation. Whether your aim is to lose weight, build muscle, improve cardiovascular health, or simply feel more energetic, having a specific goal helps you stay focused. For example, instead of saying “I want to get fit,” set a goal like “I want to run 5 kilometers without stopping in 8 weeks.”
2. Seek out help, hire a coach!
A well-rounded fitness routine includes a mix of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility work. Starting a fitness routine can be challenging, but a coach will provide the necessary guidance to help keep you safe, healthy, and on track.
A professional coach will help create the appropriate intensity, select movements that work well for your body, and help hold you accountable to your nutrition and showing up to workouts when you don’t FEEL like it.
We all need help in various areas of our life. Don’t let your pride stop you from hiring a coach. Your health is one of the most important things in your life, it’s well worth the investment!
3. Start Slow and Listen to Your Body
It’s tempting to jump in with high intensity and long workouts, but this can lead to burnout or injury. Start with shorter sessions and lower intensity, then gradually increase as you build strength and stamina. Pay attention to how your body responds—if you’re experiencing unusual pain or excessive fatigue, it’s okay to take a rest day or adjust your routine. Consistency is key, so it’s better to progress steadily than to risk injury by doing too much too soon.
4. Manage Stress Well
Fitness is not just about exercise; managing all the stress in your life plays a crucial role in your overall progress. Ensure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day, especially before, during, and after workouts. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will provide the energy and nutrients needed for effective workouts and recovery. A well-hydrated and nourished body performs better and recovers faster, setting you up for long-term success. Sleep is CRUCIAL to recovering, preventing unnecessary injuries and sickness, and maintaining longevity while you’re training hard.
When you eat, sleep, and hydrate well, your body will sustain an intense exercise routine and you’ll make significantly better progress!
5. Find Enjoyment and Stay Motivated
Staying motivated is often the hardest part of starting a new fitness routine. Find a routine that you enjoy. When exercise feels like fun rather than a chore, you’re more likely to stick with it. Additionally, consider working out with a friend or joining a fitness community to stay accountable and inspired. Tracking your progress, celebrating small victories, and continuously setting new goals will also help keep you motivated.
Starting a routine can feel overwhelming, but don’t let that paralyze you and prevent you from getting going! We’d love to help you at Journey. We’ll do the hard work of programming workouts, guiding you in nutrition, and supporting you with a great community!