So you want to get fit? We applaud you! Deciding to make a life change is huge, and we’re here to support you. Follow these six easy fitness tips to get started on your fitness journey.
The first step (or lunge) is the hardest
If it’s been a while (or a lifetime) since you last stepped onto the mat, getting started can be intimidating. Know that everyone feels this way at the beginning. Push through any anxieties and fears because the end result is worth it– we promise!
Consistency is key…
Setting measurable and quantifiable goals is the best path to success. In fitness, that might look like:
- Signing up for 4-5 group fitness classes per week
- Running X miles each week
- Hitting the gym every weekday
- Swimming laps each day before work
- Attending private coaching sessions
- Or any combination of the above.
When you have a schedule and a plan for your fitness, you’re able to hold yourself accountable. Feel free to use gold stars on the days you stick to the plan!
… but don’t overdo it
It can be tempting to go all-in with a rigorous 7-day fitness routine. If you’re just starting out, that can lead to burnout. While it’s great to move daily, be sure to listen to what your body needs, and what your schedule allows. Beginners might find that three to five workouts per week are the sweet spot– or the SWEAT spot!
Provide good fuel for your body
If you want your car to run well, you fill it up with gas and do regular oil changes, right? If you take care of your car, shouldn’t you take care of your body? Don’t get me wrong– we love snacks, but a diet of desserts won’t prep your body for peak performance.
Here are a few ways to fuel your body with the things it really needs:
- Stay hydrated – Trent Nessler, PT, DPT, MPT, managing director of Baptist Sports Medicine in Nashville told WebMD, “In general, you should try to drink between half an ounce and an ounce of water for each pound you weigh, every day.” Are you drinking enough?
- Eat protein-rich meals with lots of vegetables – Not sure where to start? Check out our recipe section with healthy meals that are full of flavor.
- Pay attention to portions – Check the serving size before loading up your plate. We find that using smaller plates helps avoid the temptation to fill a larger one.
When you fuel your body with the ingredients it needs, you’ll find that your body has more stamina to complete your workouts.
You snooze, you… win!
While the majority of adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep per night, 30% of Americans are getting less than six hours. But if you want those gains, you’ve got to sleep. Sleep gives your body energy for future workouts and repairs muscles from past workouts.
Keep going!
Remember the story about the tortoise and the hare? Even if your progress seems slow, it’s important to keep going. Stay motivated and little by little, you’ll build muscle, lose weight, and see increased energy. Don’t give up!
Need a little extra support? The team at Enhancewell Fitness is here to help you on your fitness journey. Join one of our group classes or get started with private lessons that meet you where you are. See you on the mat!
