Starting Your Fitness Journey

Whether you’re new to exercise or you’ve just been out of the game for a while and are looking to make a change, starting your fitness journey is something people struggle with every day – you’re not alone.

As cliche as it is to say, getting fit is more than just pledging to start going to the gym though, it’s a lifestyle change and one that takes a lot of time, dedication and determination to achieve.

Here are some things you can do to help you get there.

Try out some exercises
Lots of people avoid making exercise a permanent part of their routine because they don’t like it. If they don’t like it, chances are it’s because they haven’t found what works for them. There are countless ways you can work out and finding the right one for you is key to making it stick. Whether it’s HIIT (high intensity interval training) or aerobics that works best for you, you’ll never know unless you try.

Find out where you like to workout
Where you workout is just as important as how when it comes to committing to it long term. It could be outdoors when the British weather allows or solo in the gym, either way, the environment you exercise in also impacts on your ability to keep it up.

Buy some gym wear
It may seem superficial but getting motivated to workout is all about feeling good and if you feel good in what you’re wearing, it’s going to make a difference. That’s not to say you have to go out and buy all the latest designer activewear for a small fortune, just invest in basics like shorts and trainers that are going to help you feel your best whenever you hit the gym.

Do everything in moderation
When you indulged a little too much in the holiday buffet or the takeaways have crept into the weekdays it’s all too easy to impulsively promise to work out. It’s even worse once January rolls around and we’re all on the ‘new year, new me’ hype, but this is exactly the kind of mindset that’s going to fail, especially when you’re starting out. Going to the gym five days a week for two months then not at all for the rest of the year is pointless. Try to commit to two to three times a week to start out with, you’re far more likely to make it last.

Make it achievable
This one works in the same way as the last point. If you’re setting unrealistic expectations before you’ve even started, you’re more than likely to put yourself off. Whether it’s an unrealistic weight loss target or a weight you’re aiming to lift, keep it simple and achievable.

Eat well
We all know the impact that a healthy body can have on the mind. When you work out, you’re less likely to indulge in fatty, sugary foods and when you’re eating healthily, you’ve got more energy and motivation to work out. It’s a win-win cycle.

Rope in a friend
Gyms and working out in general can be intimidating so having a friend to come with you can be a comfort. If they know what they’re doing and are well into their fitness journey, even better! If not, at least you’ll have some moral support from the get-go.

For more advice on making fitness a permanent part of your life, contact Zoe here.