A beginner’s guide
Today’s health and fitness scene is more extensive and exciting than ever. The innovation in this space has led to the emergence of advanced fitness trackers, new training disciplines, high-tech cardio machines, weight equipment and much more. However, the amazing variety of options has left many feeling overwhelmed when trying to figure out where to start.
After more than a decade in the business, we know how exciting and confusing it can be to start a fitness journey, so we’ve put together six tips to help you get started right away! 1. Identify your “Why” Every journey starts with a single step, but before that step is a reason why. Your ‘why’ should be meaningful to you, something you connect with internally and free from whatever anyone else thinks. This could be as simple as not having pain when you get out of bed, not feeling out of breath when you climb stairs, improving your mental health, or increasing your strength. Whatever the reason, connecting with your ‘why’ will serve as the end goal and motivation to get you started, it will also be the push to keep you going.2. Set SMART Goals
Now that you know your reason ‘why’/the ‘end goal’ it is time to break it down.
SMART goal setting will help you break down your end goal into small actionable steps, create healthy habits and give you a clearer visual path towards victory.
How to set SMART objectives: S – Particular Your goal should be described in detail. For example, if your end goal is to improve your general fitness then breaking it down into a specific goal could be:
‘I want to be able to jog without getting tired’
M – Measurable
Once you have specified your goal the next step is to define how you will measure your progress. So, to make the goal of ‘jogging without getting tired’ measurable you can make the goal:
“I want to jog for 30 minutes without getting tired,” says the person. A – Attainable
Now that you have a measurable goal the next step is to make sure that it is achievable.
For instance: I can achieve my goal of running for 30 minutes without getting tired by jogging for 5 minutes at a constant pace before slowing down or taking breaks. I will gradually increase this by 30 to 60 cents. Now that you have this, you have a better idea of how to get to the 30-minute mark. R – Relevant
When a goal is relevant it relates directly to you and your lifestyle. Jogging improves your overall fitness, which in turn improves your health in this instance. T – Time-bound
Setting deadlines for your goal(s) helps to create a sense of urgency and excitement. It will also help you to track your progress more efficiently and make adjustments along the way.
3. Find the right Fitness Routine for you
Now that you have your goal broken down it is time to put in the action. Depending on your current fitness level and awareness there are a few key things to consider.
Do you have any physical ailments or serious mobility issues?
We advise that before starting any exercise routine you have a basic check-up with your physician or address any issues that may be hindering your movement.
Where will you be most comfortable starting your fitness goal?
Home
Outdoors / local park
Fitness center / gym
What fitness level and knowledge do you have?
Beginner – New to exercise
Beginner with limited knowledge
Beginner with basic understanding
Beginner to intermediate
Once you have identified the above it will be easier to identify which of the following categories of exercise style you will fall into:
1. Training on an individual basis Work one-on-one with a certified personal trainer to develop a tailored training program for your goals. They will also be able to guide you on the basics of nutrition and which exercises will be best for you to start with.
2. Group Class
Typically, this type of exercise consists of a particular style, such as bootcamp, HIIT, circuit, cardio, or strength training. The experience is not personalized but you share the same or very similar goals to other participants of the class.
This is a less expensive option that also gives you the opportunity to find a accountability partner and share encouragement with other people. 3. by yourself If you have a basic understanding of movement and feel confident creating or following a workout guide then this is a fantastic and flexible option. You are able to set your own pace, adapt to your circumstances and operate on your own schedule.
It is very important that if you follow a plan found online you get it from a reputable source (someone who is qualified and trained to give fitness advice and exercise programming).
