Starting a new workout routine can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! If you’re looking to make a lifestyle change, here are some tips for getting started on a workout plan.

The Hardest Step is the First One

Planning to take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle? Congratulations! Starting a new workout plan can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re a beginner. However, it’s also an adventure packed with personal growth, learning curves, exciting challenges, and self-esteem strengthening. The tips detailed in this blog can help you set realistic goals, identify the right activities for you, and guide you on your new fitness journey.

Tip #1: Set Realistic & SMART Goals

The first step to getting started on a workout plan is to set realistic goals. What do you want to achieve with your workouts? Do you want to lose weight, gain muscle, improve your overall fitness, or all the above? Once you know what your goals are, you can formulate a plan to achieve them. Be sure to set SMART goals – specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound.

Here’s an example of a SMART goal – If the aim is to lose weight, an ideal goal might be to lose 10 pounds in 6 months. Further, a SMART goal for gaining muscle might be to increase your bench press by 20 pounds in 3 months.

Activities and Scheduling

There are many different types of activities that you can do as part of your workout plan. Some popular options include cardio, strength training, yoga, and Pilates. The best way to find the right activities for you is to experiment and see what you enjoy! If you’re not sure where to start, consider a personal trainer or fitness instructor.

Once you’ve found the right activities for you, it’s time to create a workout schedule. This will help you stay on track and ensure your exercise habits are aligned with your goals. When creating your workout plan, it’s important to factor in your fitness level, goals, and daily schedule. Be realistic, especially at the beginning of your journey. For example, don’t build a plan around 4:30am workouts if you’re more of an evening person!

Warm Up and Cool Down

Warming up properly will help prevent injuries, prepare your body for exercise, and support optimal energy levels. For example, a good warm-up might include some light cardio and dynamic stretches. Cooling down after a workout is equally as important, and often the most overlooked. This will help your body recover and prevent muscle soreness, which is especially ideal if just starting out! Similar to a warm-up, a good cool-down might include some light cardio and static stretches.

Track Your Progress and Be Patient!

Tracking your progress is a great way to stay motivated and see how far you’ve come. You can track your progress in a variety of ways, such as keeping a journal, using a fitness tracker, or taking before-and-after pictures every month.

So, what’s the biggest tip for getting started on a workout plan? Be patient! Getting in shape takes time, effort, and consistency. If you aren’t seeing results as quick as you would like to, it’s important not to get discouraged. Enjoy the journey, be agile, and embrace the small wins along the way!