Imagine this: You're sitting on your sofa, scrolling through social media. You see someone who used to be out of shape but now looks super fit. You think, "I want that too." But then you wonder, "How to start a fitness journey? Where do I find the time or motivation?"
If you've felt this way, you're not alone. Starting to get fit might seem hard, but it's possible with the right help and attitude. Here’s the brief for you:
To start a fitness journey, set clear goals, begin with manageable steps like regular exercise and healthy eating, and seek support from friends or professionals for guidance and motivation.
Let’s get into the details of some easy tips to help you begin your fitness journey.
What is a Fitness Journey?
A fitness journey is about getting healthier and fitter through exercise and lifestyle changes. It includes —
setting goals,
adopting healthy habits,
and staying committed to progress.
It's a transformative process that makes you stronger, happier, and healthier.
How to Start a Fitness Journey
Beginning a fitness journey is great for your health. Exercising can —
lower the chance of sickness,
aid in weight loss,
shape your body,
enhance balance and coordination,
and most importantly, better your sleep patterns.
So, what do I need to start my fitness journey? Let’s check out the below-mentioned tips to kickstart your fitness journey in a way that's fun and sustainable.
Set Your Goals
Before you start your fitness journey, take time to figure out what you want to achieve. Do you want to shed weight, build muscle, get fitter, or just feel better overall? Having a clear goal will assist you in staying focused and motivated.
Here's what you should measure:
Take your pulse rate before and after walking 1 mile (1.6 kilometers).
How long does it take you to walk 1 mile or run 1.5 miles (2.41 kilometers)?
Count how many regular or modified pushups you can do in one go.
Assess your flexibility by seeing how well you can move your hips, knees, ankles, shoulders, and elbows.
Measure your waist circumference just above your hipbones, around the level of your bellybutton.
Calculate your body mass index (BMI).
Start Small
It's important to take things slow when you're starting out. Don't try to do too much too soon, or you might end up getting hurt or feeling overwhelmed. Start with simple exercises that you enjoy and gradually increase the intensity and duration as you get stronger.
Aim to raise your activity level by no more than 10% each week. If you have an injury or medical condition, talk to your healthcare or fitness professional. Together, you can create a fitness plan that slowly improves your flexibility, strength, and stamina.
Learn
Knowledge is power when it comes to fitness. Take the time to learn about different exercises, proper form, nutrition, and how your body responds to exercise. This will help you avoid injuries and make sure you're making the right choices for your goals.
Find Your Motivation
Staying motivated is vital to sticking with your fitness routine, especially when things get tough. Take some time to think about why you want to get fit and remind yourself of your reasons whenever you're feeling unmotivated.
Whether it's to feel more confident, improve your health, or set a good example for your loved ones, having a strong "why" will help you stay focused.
Make a Plan
Having a workout plan will help you stay organized and track your progress. Start by scheduling regular workout sessions and mix up your routine to keep things interesting.
Add a variety of exercises, like cardio, strength training, and flexibility work, and don't forget to schedule rest days for recovery.
Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise. You can also mix moderate and vigorous activity. Try to exercise most days of the week.
For even better health, go for 300 minutes or more of moderate aerobic activity weekly. Exercising this much may help with weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight.
Add strength training exercises for all major muscle groups at least twice a week. Doing one set of each exercise is enough for health and fitness benefits. Use enough weight or resistance to tire your muscles after about 12 to 15 repetitions.
High-intensity interval training involves short bursts (10 to 30 seconds) of intense activity followed by periods of low-intensity activity for recovery.
Many people start exercising with lots of energy, but they overdo it and end up sore or injured. Plan rest days between workouts to give your body time to recover.
Having a written plan can help you stick to your fitness goals and stay on track with your workouts.
Besides, visit our informative blog to learn “How do dieticians help?”
Are you wondering, “Does keeping a food journal help you lose weight?” Give our informative blog a thorough read to learn.
Get Support
Don't be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or online communities. Surrounding yourself with such people who share your goals can give motivation and encouragement when you need it.
Consider searching for a workout buddy or hiring a professional personal trainer to help you stay on track.
Listen to Your Body
It's important to listen to what your body wants and give it the rest and recovery it needs. Pay attention to any signs of pain or fatigue, and don't push yourself too hard.
Keep in mind that progress takes a significant time, so be patient and celebrate your achievements along the way.
Check Your Progress
Evaluate your fitness six weeks after starting your program, then again every few months. How are you progressing? You might need to increase your exercise time or find you're already meeting your goals.
If you lose motivation, set new goals or try a different activity. Exercise with a friend or join a class at a gym.
Starting an exercise program is a big decision, but it doesn't have to feel overwhelming. With careful planning and pacing, you can establish a healthy habit that lasts a lifetime.
Check out our informative blog to get a detailed understanding of strength training for weight loss.
Start Your Fitness Journey with Back Bay Fit’s Personal Training
Back Bay Fit offers top-notch Personal Training in Boston, MA, with a team of skilled Boston Personal Trainers who create a fitness plan tailored just for you. Our process starts with a free phone consultation, followed by an in-person meeting and a tour of our modern facility to match you with the right Personal Trainer for your goals.
Whether you're into strength training, weight loss, or powerlifting, our coaches design a personalized program for you. We foster a supportive community where you'll find motivation, a sense of belonging, and expert guidance.
Visit Back Bay Fit for a customized fitness plan, proven results, and a healthier you, connecting with Boston's finest Personal Trainers.
Wrapping Up
To sum it up, starting a fitness journey might seem hard, but it's doable with the right mindset. Set clear goals, start slowly, ask for help, and keep at it. Remember, your journey is yours alone, so listen to your body, keep motivated, and celebrate your wins. With these tips on how to start a fitness journey, you're ready to begin your journey to a healthier, happier you.
FAQs
What if I'm completely new to exercise?
Begin with low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or bodyweight exercises at home. You can find plenty of beginner-friendly workout routines online or in apps.
How important is diet for fitness?
Diet plays a crucial role in fitness. Eating healthy -
fuels your workouts,
promotes recovery,
and helps you reach your goals faster.
Depend on a balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Should I track my progress?
Tracking your progress is an awesome way to stay motivated. You can track things like weight, body measurements, workout performance, or even how you feel overall.
How often should I rest between workouts?
Rest days are important for muscle recovery and preventing injuries. Aim for at least one or two rest days per week, depending on your workout intensity.
Is it okay to feel sore after a workout?
Slight muscle soreness is common after starting a new exercise routine. It's a sign your muscles are adapting and getting stronger. However, persistent pain could indicate injury, so listen to your body.
Comentários