Your fitness journey is unique to you and YOU alone! Whether you’re a trained athlete, someone who exercises consistently for their health or someone who is just getting started, your journey with fitness is one that only you can shape and create.
On the other hand, getting started on that journey can often seem confusing and fairly difficult – and that’s okay! It doesn’t mean that you’re not cut out for exercise, or that your goals are too far out of reach. Sometimes, it just means that you need to take a step back and examine exactly what it will take for you to cross that first hurdle and continue on.
1…2…3… Getting Started on Your Fitness Journey
Every journey has a beginning – but sometimes, getting past that first hurdle is the hardest part. However, once you’ve got a plan in place, the rest will fall together! When embarking on your own fitness journey for the first time, ask yourself these questions to ensure you set yourself up for lasting and sustainable progress.
What am I REALLY Trying to Accomplish?
Knowing your intent for exercising is key. You might be looking to feel better overall, or you may be trying to eliminate a certain health concern. Whatever your reason, knowing your intent can help you craft a specific plan to help you meet your goals.
What am I Currently Able to Do? What are my Limitations?
Your body has to adapt to exercise, which means you’ll need to assess your current fitness level before beginning any kind of routine. Perhaps you’re ready to dive into cardio or strength training, but perhaps you’d benefit first from choosing initial exercises to improve your mobility.
What do I ENJOY Doing?
You’ll be more motivated to exercise if you find an activity you enjoy doing. Does the gym motivate you? Maybe a membership is right for you! Would you rather experience the great outdoors? Perhaps you’re better suited for a routine that utilizes activities such as swimming, biking, hiking or rowing.
What Can I Commit to?
When beginning their journey with fitness, many people try too take on too much at once. When this happens, you’ll likely end up feeling burned out and discouraged. Before setting out to tackle your goals, think about your schedule, time constraints and any specific health concerns you may have.
Consult Your Doctor
Although fitness is an essential part of any weight management plan, your doctor should be privy to any workout plans and goals you have. By looping them in on your journey, they can help you set realistic goals, assess your needs and limitations, and monitor your health along the way. For additional tips on having the conversation about weight and health with your doctor, CLICK HERE.
Find Your Motivation
Finally, find what motivates you! Maybe it’s the thought of a loved one, or even a pet that helps you achieve physical activity. Perhaps it’s an old picture of yourself, or a song that gets you energized. Whatever it is, hold on to that motivation and run with it!
Once you cross that first hurdle, you are well on your way to a healthier self who is capable of doing so many new and exciting things! Physical fitness is essential to the mind and body, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish if you stay active and determined!
