One of the best moves you can make is to start an exercise routine. But when you’re starting from scratch, it can be overwhelming to figure out how and where to begin.
Trying to go from zero exercises to working out three times a week for an hour at a time is too much for most people — and many quit before they begin. Here’s how to ease into a fitness routine that works for you.
- First, start small. Pick one or two days a week where you will exercise, then build on that week by week until you are exercising regularly. If you haven’t exercised in a while, start with walking, perhaps 10 minutes each day. When you feel comfortable with that, move on to 30 minutes, then an hour, and so on.
- Find a routine that works for you. Exercise can be rewarding and fun. There are many options to choose from, including yoga, weight training, walking, running and team sports. If you have a sport or activity that you enjoy doing, chances are it will be a good way to stay active too. You might want to try out several different types of activities to see which ones work best for you.
- Make it fun: Exercise should be fun — otherwise, why do it? If you like going dancing or hiking, that’s great! Just make sure whatever activity you choose is enjoyable for you.
- Be realistic. Exercise is improving your body, but it’s also improving your mind. You’ll feel more energetic and optimistic. You’ll have more patience with your family members and coworkers. You’ll be more productive at work and able to recall information you learned in school easier. Exercise will make you a better person! But it can’t do all that if you don’t start by being realistic about how much time you’re willing to invest in working out regularly. If you’re so busy with work or school or family obligations that you don’t have time for a regular workout routine, it’s better to admit that now than to promise yourself you’ll do something that will just set you up for failure later on.
