Are you thinking about starting your fitness journey? Well the starting point can be the most difficult and scary part of the whole process, which is probably why you are reading this article… to get some answers. “Where and how do I begin?” is one of the most common fitness questions, which is completely understandable. We have asked this question ourselves time and time again because the truth of the matter is; fitness journeys are hard to commence.
Although this is your journey and you are going to be doing the work, Thinco is here to help you get on your feet. We have looked into some of the best strategies for starting your health and fitness journey – and committing to it!
Choose Your WHY
The first question to ask yourself when embarking on your fitness journey is WHY? There is no right or wrong answer here as long as your answer is coming from a place of self-love and a genuine desire to do something for yourself. It is important to ensure that your WHY isn’t due to external pressures and other’s expectations. Maybe you want to change your body shape, drop a dress size, and/or improve your fitness level. Whatever it may be; establish it and then let that be your driving factor throughout your fitness journey.
Pick What You Enjoy
Just because you want to commence a fitness journey, doesn’t mean you need to spend hours in a gym on the treadmill. We are lucky enough to be alive at a time where there are numerous exercise options available to us. If you’re not a fan of the gym then try moving your body in a different way join a dance class or look into some martial arts. If you absolutely hate cardio, look into some weight lifting. If you hate getting overheated and sweaty then see if there are any yoga classes in your area. Pick an exercise option that is right for you, by doing so you will not only enjoy your journey but are more likely to commit to it.
Look Into a Personal Trainer
If you are completely new to this whole fitness thing then maybe you will feel more comfortable starting your fitness journey with some professional help. You don’t have to spend money on a personal trainer indefinitely but having someone to show you around the gym, how to perform the exercises correctly and introduce you to a meal plan in the beginning can be very beneficial. Not only will they build your knowledge but also they will boost your motivation and give you some real inspiration.
Create a Vision Board
It is time to get creative ladies! If you want to spark your motivation then a vision board is definitely the way to go. Run down to your local Office Works and purchase a corkboard and get to work creating a vision for your life (yep even we know that was a bit too cheesy). Add images, quotes, word, foods anything that reflects your wildest dreams. Nothing is off limits here. Put your vision board in a place where you will see it every single day and watch your motivation grow.
Start Small
Progress is key. It is much better to start small and keep adding than to start really motivated and give up after 2 weeks. Remember, no one is expecting you to squat 100kg in your first week or to be able run 10km without almost passing out from lack of air. See what is right for you and build up from that, as you are ready. For example, today I do 10 jumping jacks and 10 squats – tomorrow do 11. If 10 are too much for you right now then do 5. Don’t think or put yourself under unrealistic expectations, just go for it!