So, you followed my and virtually every other trainers’ advice and made an attainable, realistic, measurable fitness resolution for 2017. Good for you!
Actually, great for you. Getting your head to set a fitness goal is more than most everyone else will do. Getting started is 100% mental. Didn’t yet convince yourself you need to exercise regularly to live a long healthy life? Then start with that. The rest of this article is not for you. Yet. Go set your goal.
With your goal set, it’s time to approach the basics. Stretching and core strengthening comes first, especially if you have not exercised or worked out recently. Depending on your experience and fitness level, your starting point can vary greatly. If you’re not sure what to do or how to start, contact me and I will point you in the right direction. With the right support, it’s easier than you think.
You’ll also want to consider which technology or app you will use to record your progress. From wristband activity trackers to phone apps that donate to charity for your walking and biking, there is a lot to consider here. There are even digital workout logbooks and total online training programs to track your progress and share it with others.
Exercising regularly can take many forms, and it should follow your passion. Could be running, bicycling, competitive weightlifting, yoga or any other multi-functional strength training. If you have a passion for martial arts, then you may want to pursue that as your regular exercise program. Whatever the case, you don’t need a bunch of money or lots of extra time to get started. Find a favorite physical activity and repeat it often.
Irregular leads to regular. Give yourself a break if you don’t jump right in to a regular routine and keep it going without lapsing. Congratulations if you can jump in and keep it up, but you’re not in the range of normal. For the rest of us, the norm is to start and stop a new exercise program multiple times in the first two months. That’s OK – just keep your eye on the prize.
By the 12th week of trying and trying and trying, you will have a moment and it will click into place. That’s when it becomes regular for you. You’ll look forward to working out and want to make it to that spin class, or wherever your new found exercise lifestyle takes you. With the right support, it’s easier than you think.
Get up and get out there!
