Are you looking to lose a few extra pounds? Want to get more physically active to avoid common diseases as you age? Regular exercise has many benefits. But a haphazard approach to fitness will not get you anywhere. Without a clear workout plan, it is easier to get distracted and for boredom to set in.
However, a carefully planned fitness routine could help you stay focused and motivated. Here are four practical tips to get you started.
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1. Set Your Goals
Any serious mission needs to begin with goal setting, and so does your approach to fitness. Ask yourself what you aim to achieve. You could be planning to participate in a marathon or take up regular exercise to prevent the countless risks of a sedentary lifestyle. These are two very different scenarios, each requiring a unique workout routine. So, understanding what you are striving to accomplish is essential before designing a fitness program.
Be practical when setting your goals and ensure they are SMART—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. For example, a goal to lose 20 pounds in the next four months could be achievable and relevant to you based on your fitness level and needs. It is also a specific and measurable goal defined by a clear timeframe.
2. Prepare a Workout Plan
Once you have set your goals, preparing a customized fitness plan to help achieve them becomes easier.
Here is what you should consider during this stage:
● Be Realistic
When you have a full-time job, following the workout regime of a national athlete is not going to work. You may work in shifts or frequently bring work home. Or you could be a single parent juggling multiple responsibilities. Each individual’s circumstance is different. So, designing a realistic fitness program is crucial to ensure you follow through in the long term.
Consider your schedule and be practical when determining how much time you can realistically commit. Of course, if your diary is constantly full, it doesn’t mean you must give up your workout goals entirely.
To make your fitness a priority, you might need to move around your schedule and let go of less important activities. Sometimes, you will have to find creative solutions. For instance, if you drop off your kids at school each morning, you can consider a carpooling alternative to save time.
Moreover, to achieve your fitness goals, you don’t always need to assign a separate time for it. Remember, simple options, such as cycling to work, taking the stairs, and replacing driving with walking whenever possible, could have plenty of physical benefits to keep you fit.
● Start Slow
Your current fitness level is an important consideration in identifying the best fitness programs to achieve your goals. For instance, starting a high-intensity workout regime straightaway could be counterproductive if you have been leading a mostly sedentary lifestyle with little to no regular exercise. But if you occasionally play sports or get involved in hiking, swimming, or cycling, certain fitness activities will be easier.
A program that steadily intensifies over time is the best option to progress successfully toward accomplishing your goals. This approach will prevent injury and allow ample recovery time for your body to adjust and recuperate. It will also minimize demotivation and chances of dropping out—both common occurrences with overwhelming workout programs. So, despite your enthusiasm to jump right into a vigorous routine, remember to start slowly and progress gradually.
● Add Variety
Following the same daily routine could seem repetitive, dull, and tiring after some time. By incorporating a variety of activities, you can make your fitness program much more exciting and fun. For instance, it can include high-intensity workouts, aerobics, running, cycling, or even Zumba. Have a mix of things you enjoy, whether it is dancing, hiking, or swimming, and you will be more likely to follow the workout plan until you achieve your health goals.
● Make It Visual
Write down your goals, prepare a routine on a printed schedule, and stick it up in a place you can regularly see. This practice is essential to help you visualize your plan and hold yourself accountable to the chosen routine.
You can purchase a printed workout scheduler on Amazon, download a printable version from Etsy, or even create one yourself. Whichever option you choose, ensure it is large enough to provide visual clarity at a glance.
3. Get Support
A reliable support network could go a long way in keeping you motivated to stay the course. So, consider what type of support you will need to follow through with your fitness routine.
For example, do you need a fitness instructor? If so, browse Leadar to find an expert from your local area. Would you rather have a fitness companion for some added motivation? Check with a friend, family member, coworker, or neighbor whether they could join you. Do you prefer a group environment as opposed to a solitary workout? Then, ask around your social network for any local aerobics or Zumba classes you could join.
4. Start, Adjust, and Repeat
There is no better time than now to start your fitness program. Once you have your routine mapped out, dive right in.
Ensure you have the right gear to minimize injury and improve comfort. For instance, you may need to purchase a new pair of running shoes, prepare a separate area in your home for workouts, and get breathable clothes that will keep you comfortable during different weather conditions.
Also, don’t forget to monitor and track your progress so you can readjust your routine when needed. A fitness app or tracking device could be ideal for recording your fitness levels, calories burned, steps taken, sleep quality, and other important data.
Be especially mindful if you feel overly tired or physically drained, especially at the beginning. Take enough breaks to allow your body to heal and regain energy.
To Wrap Up
Whatever your fitness goals may be, the above steps will help you achieve them with a more focused and systematic approach. Getting started with your workout routine without delay is imperative. But being consistent and keeping your motivation levels high is just as crucial.
