Treadmill, rowing machine, elliptical, stair stepper, free weights, squat rack… the list goes on. In today’s fitness world, there’s no shortage of options to choose from when looking for ways to make healthy happen. And while having options and variety is great, many often feel overwhelmed when trying to figure out what’s “right” for them or where to start.
We understand that taking your first step into the gym can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! We promise. But coming prepared with a plan of attack can lead to a higher chance of success, so we’ve mapped out some tools to help you get started and begin your fitness journey.
Here are our top five tips to get you started off on the right foot so you can meet your goals!
Know your goals. Find your “why.”
Going to the gym without goals in mind can be like driving a car without a destination. When creating a goal, it can be beneficial to think about the process that it takes to accomplish your goal. Get specific about your goal and how you might go about achieving it. For example, if you are looking to build your endurance, set a plan to help you get there like, “work on increasing endurance by walking on the treadmill at least three times a week.” For more on how to set goals, check out this article.
After you know your goals, you have to think about what made you start this fitness journey. Why are you chasing this goal? Having a clearly defined reason and purpose can help keep you grounded and motivated as you work towards achieving your goal. This is your why. On the days when you’re challenged and feel tempted to take the easy path, refer back to your why to keep you committed.
What kind of workouts are right for me?
Now that you know your goals, you can start to figure out what kind of fitness routine would be best for you. Consider the specifics and measurements of success as it relates to your goal, as well as what you know about yourself and what you might prefer in a fitness routine. Most styles of workouts fall into four categories: personal training, small group, large group, and workouts on your own.
- Personal Training
- Personal training gives you the most one-on-one attention of the four options. Having a coach that connects with you and knows your goals can be highly beneficial to meeting them! Not only will you learn about working out and your body, your coach will push you to be your best at every session.
- Small Group
- Small group training is the middle ground between personal training and team training. Usually in groups of 2-6 people, small group training offers beneficial time with a coach while also building energy from working out with other people.
- Group or Team Training
- Team training is led by a coach; however, the coach is typically focused on group instruction, rather than providing a personalized workout experience. While you might not get as much time with a coach, you will be able to feel the energy in the room as everyone is working towards a common goal! You show up, work hard, go home feeling successful!
- On Your Own
- If you are experienced and know what you are doing, training on your own can be an amazing option as well.
If you are completely new to fitness, personal training can be one of the best ways to kickstart your fitness journey. Not only will your coach walk you through some of those uncomfortable feelings and movements, they will make sure you move the correct ways to avoid injuries. While you do get some of this with small group and large group workouts, personal training provides the most value to a beginner in the fitness world.
Make a commitment
Even if you start small, make a commitment to yourself. While you may want to commit to working out for 100 days straight, that might not be the most effective commitment for you to see success. Maybe starting by working out twice a week for the first two weeks of your new fitness journey and then slowly increase your daily workouts will help you build consistency. This allows you to slowly ease your way into your new routine while allowing your body adequate time to recover while avoiding burnout (which is very important!).
With every commitment, there are going to be things that throw you off course. Don’t worry! These things happen; it’s how you respond to them that matters more than anything. Even if you miss a workout, overindulge, or whatever else life throws at you – reset and keep working to reach your goal!
Having trouble making a good commitment or goal? Talk to a coach! Coaches and trainers are great accountability partners and would love to work with you to help you achieve success.
Follow through
Growth happens outside our comfort zone. Once you make your commitment, give everything you have to keep that promise you’ve made to yourself. You knew it wouldn’t always be easy when you set out on your fitness journey, but the end result is worth it. Trust us!
Think about ways to set yourself for success. If you’ve failed to meet your goals in the past, think of the reasons why. For example, maybe you are not a morning person. We get it! But don’t plan to work out before the rooster crows! Plan your workouts during a time of day where you’ll be motivated and won’t easily have excuses (ahem, snooze button) that keep you from getting to the gym. Maybe you know it’s hard to avoid snacking, or you’re busy and eat on the go. Spend time creating meal plans, meal prepping, or creating on-the-go snacks so you can avoid turning to gas station sandwiches or fast food noshes.
Start now! Yes, now!
There is nothing to wait for! Don’t wait for a new week, month, or year to start your fitness journey. Seize each and every day with intention to keep yourself on track with your goals.
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