Kickstarting Your Fitness Journey

Whether you're new to the gym or have always shied away from exercise, working out can feel like a challenge. But it doesn’t need to be difficult. Here are some ways to help you get active again.

Don’t Stress Over the Gym

First and foremost, exercising doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym. Many of us become fixated on meeting a specific number of gym visits each week, viewing anything less as a "failure." This mindset sets unrealistic expectations and creates unnecessary pressure.

"As a beginner, you don’t necessarily need to go to the gym right away," says personal trainer David Wiener. "This is a time to discover what you enjoy about exercise, and the gym can feel intimidating. Start with simple activities like walking or low-impact jogging—anything that helps you get moving."

Understand Your Motivation

 It might seem straightforward, but understanding your reasons for wanting to exercise is crucial for setting yourself up for success.

"Once you identify your motivation, make it a point to remind yourself regularly and concentrate on completing your workouts," says Wiener. "It's completely normal to have days when you feel unmotivated. However, being aware of what inspires you and drives you forward is incredibly powerful."

Whether your goal is to increase your energy, alleviate stress, or build strength, having a clear understanding of your motivation will help keep you inspired and make it easier to maintain your routine. This clarity will also enable you to recover from setbacks and remain dedicated over the long term.

Discover What You Enjoy

 If you’ve attempted to exercise in the past but lost interest, it’s likely because you hadn’t found the right activity for you.

"One of the key things to keep in mind is that you need to enjoy it," says Wiener. "Pressuring yourself to engage in something you dislike is counterproductive."

If running feels tedious, consider exploring alternatives like cycling, swimming, or participating in a sport. If weightlifting doesn’t appeal to you, try bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, or martial arts. The objective is to experiment with different activities until you discover something that genuinely excites you about working out. It might take some time, but you will find it.

Establish a Balanced Routine

While we all have our preferences, a well-rounded exercise plan should incorporate a combination of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. This balance ensures that you are addressing your overall fitness.

• Cardio: Engage in activities like brisk walking, jogging, hiking, or playing basketball to get your heart rate up. Aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate cardio each week.

• Strength Training: Building muscle enhances your metabolism, strengthens your bones, and improves overall strength. Start with bodyweight exercises such as squats, push-ups, and lunges, then gradually incorporate weights or resistance bands.

• Flexibility: Include stretching or yoga in your routine to boost flexibility, reduce muscle stiffness, and help prevent injuries. Even dedicating 10-15 minutes to stretching after your workouts can lead to significant improvements.