Dun dun dun… It’s the beginning of the year, and for many of you that means starting your fitness journey… Which may be daunting at first, but keep these few tips in mind and you’re sure to succeed!
1. Start!
Don’t delay.. Don’t tell yourself I’ll start next week. Keeping your body healthy should be a priority, so make it one! Call your local gyms, and look into a monthly membership. Or go buy a set of Dumbbells and get to it!
2. Buy a calendar…
Yes! Having a calendar will keep you on track. You can write down your social events such as weddings, birthday’s , and holidays, and then begin to plan your exercise routine accordingly. There’s no reason to feel bogged down with having to go to the gym and missing out on fun events… Just pencil it in!
3. Commit
Commiit to the process.. I’d recommend exercising at least 3 days a week. If you fall in love with it feel free to workout everyday; so long as you’re giving your muscles time to repair.. Usually wait 4-5 days to lift that same muscle group again.
4. Choose exercise that you enjoy!
There is no need to choose an exercise that makes you feel like a hamster on a wheel. There are tons of sports and exercises to choose from so choose according to your interests!
5. Enlist someone to help!
Whether they hold you accountable via text or actually go workout with you… Have someone in your life to encourage you! And take time to encourage someone!
6. Buy a tape measurer!
There will be changes in your body that you may not see offhand…BUT I promise it’ll happen, so you need to know how far you’ve come. So take time and write down your measurements!
7. Before/ after photos
Yes this is a must… And yes The thought of standing in front of your camera can be scary… but once again you may not see your progress day to day; however, pictures will show the work you’ve put in.
8. Meal prep
Prepare your meals for 3-4 days. Example on Sunday prepare -Sunday – Wednesday, Thursday prepare Thursday – Saturday. I’d also look into cooking it on a BBQ, easy cleanup!
9. Fitness tracker
Definitely not a requirement, but I’ve noticed when I use my fitness tracker, polar watch, that I”compete” with myself. It’s a great way to measure how much work I’ve put into a workout
10. Buy Dumbbells
Highly recommended… There are times you won’t be able to make it to a gym… Dumbbells are a great tool to use whether you’re at the gym or home.
11. Exercise clothing
Invest in clothing! You don’t need a popular brand name, but you do need clothing that is fitting… Loose pants can get caught on machines, jeans aren’t gym wear, and not every t shirt is made to get drenched. Go to your local store and take a look at their exercise clothing. Buy a few good pieces to get you started…. Plus who doesn’t love comfy pretty clothing?! 😍
12. Medical issues
Be sure if you have any existing conditions that you get the okay from your doctor to get started.
13. Shoes
Get some good shoes! Shoes can really change a workout for the good or bad.. If you’re lifting weights look into shoes that are lower to the ground. If you’re running look into shoes with more support. Try on a few pairs and make the investment!
14. Clean out your fridge
Outt of sight out of mind! Get rid of any holiday desserts or items you may be tempted to splurge on. Don’t forget to replace those items with healthy alternatives.. You need to fuel your body!
15. Make mini goals
Right now it may seem ridiculous to imagine committing the entire year to a healthier you.. Instead set a goal of a month of fitness, or to lose 5 lbs in 3 months. Make your goals are challenging, but obtainable!
16. Track your food intake
keep a food diary.. Don’t even fret about calories right away… Just write down what you’re eating so you can see how well you’re doing, and how often you stray off the course.
Liked what you read?
Share this post! #BEEinformed!