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10 Tips to get started

Posted By: Troy on 01/10/2012

10 Tips to Get Started

Fear doesn't define us - We first need to understand that it’s OK to feel somewhat unsure of yourself prior to starting an exercise and nutrition program. Once we accept this natural process we can finally move on without as much intimation.  Don't get me wrong there will be a lot to learn concerning weight training, cardiovascular exercise and nutrition. However, recognize that as you begin the process, you will continually learn, get more comfortable and, most importantly, make progress.

Pain - Try to find the true reason you want to start to exercise. Yes, being overweight is problem but it isn’t your PAIN! PAIN is something that causes more emotional and behavioral stress. For example,” I am overweight and I can’t stand looking in the mirror! What have I become?”  Not being able to look at yourself the same in the mirror is your PAIN, use that pain to help motivate you for goal setting purposes!

Get a check-up - Having a physical is a wise decision, because it will help assure you’ll attain the most benefits with the least amount of risks. If you smoke, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or are overweight, it’s doubly important. Remember, this is about starting right.

Routine- You will need guidance. That’s where Fitness Together can help you. Our Trainers are ideal for beginners. Every level from our F.I.T Consult to your first workout will be progressive in natural as well as being a great resource to answer your questions and make sure proper technique is followed! Beginners have a tendency of following someone else’s workout.  This could lead them to “overdoing” it and a higher incidence for injuries! Remember you are unique and need your own program!

Make Time - Take a close look at your schedule and be realistic concerning how many days and how much time you can realistically devote to exercise. This is going to be long-term, so it has to be based on reality. You need to make a time commitment to yourself, realizing that "rule #1, i am #1".

Diet - Begin to get an understanding/ask question on how food that you eat affects your body. You don’t need to be an expert but simply try to become more familiar with what foods are good for you and what foods are bad or you! A successful exerciser has a successful diet!

Life Style Modification - Start to work out… start to move, keep active at work, take the steps not the escalator, park farther way instead of driving around 15 minutes to wait for a spot to open near the grocery store.  JUST MOVE!

Too good to be true-  Don’t get hooked into supplements that can magically reduce body fat or infomercials that sell ineffective products to get your stomach flat. Remember, these companies are just trying to make a buck, and most of them don’t provide all the information you require to make a wise decision. They prey on emotion and impulse buying. Stay far away.

Change=Value! You need to realize that exercise is not cheap, especially for results. Think to yourself that this is a financial investment on change, on a happier and longer life!

Don’t Stop Believing! – Just like the Journey song, don’t ever stop believing in yourself, no matter what!  Your support system can be a great motivator but just getting to the gym or studio won’t be enough! Effort in=Effort out.