Embarking on a fitness journey can be both exciting and intimidating, especially for beginners. It’s essential to establish a solid foundation and adopt sustainable habits that will help you stay motivated and injury-free. Here are five crucial fitness tips to kickstart your journey to a healthier lifestyle.
Start with 2-3 Days of Training Each Week to Set Yourself Up for Success
When beginning your fitness journey, it’s essential to start slowly and progressively. One of the most common mistakes beginners make is diving into daily workouts, which can lead to burnout and overtraining. Instead, start with 2-3 days of training each week.
This approach allows your body to adapt gradually and reduces the risk of injury. As you become more comfortable with your routine and build endurance, you can increase the frequency and intensity of your workouts. Consistency is key, and setting achievable goals for your weekly workouts will help you stay on track.
You Don’t Have to Train at a Certain Time; Set a Schedule That Works for You
It’s a common misconception that you must train at a specific time of day to see results. Don’t listen to the influencers! The truth is, the best time to exercise is the time that fits your schedule and lifestyle. Whether you’re a morning person or prefer evening workouts, consistency is more important than the clock.
Select a time that allows you to be consistent with your workouts. This ensures that you can maintain your exercise routine in the long term. Whether it’s early morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening, find a schedule that aligns with your daily commitments and energy levels.
Don’t Do Lunges or ‘Big Lifts’ Until You Build a Foundational Level of Strength
While lunges and big barbell exercises like squats and deadlifts are excellent for building strength and muscle, they may not be suitable for beginners. These exercises place a significant load on your joints and muscles, and improper form can lead to injury.
Before diving into these more advanced movements, focus on building a solid foundation of strength and stability. Incorporate bodyweight exercises like push-ups, bodyweight squats, and planks into your routine. As you gain strength and confidence, you can gradually introduce more complex exercises with proper guidance from a qualified trainer.
Eat Before Exercise
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in your fitness journey. Eating a balanced meal or snack before your workout can provide you with the necessary energy and fuel to perform at your best. Aim to consume a combination of carbohydrates and protein about 1-2 hours before your exercise session. You can find some simple examples here.
Carbohydrates provide the energy your muscles need, while protein helps with muscle repair and growth. Choose easily digestible options like a banana with peanut butter, a yogurt parfait with granola, or a small turkey sandwich on whole-grain bread. Staying hydrated is equally important, so drink water before, during, and after your workout.
Set a Goal
Setting clear and achievable fitness goals is essential for staying motivated and measuring your progress. Your goals can be as simple as running a mile without stopping, performing a certain number of push-ups, or losing a specific amount of weight. If you need help setting goals- read this article.
Having a goal gives your workouts purpose and helps you track your improvements. It’s also a great way to stay accountable to yourself. Be realistic about your goals and break them down into smaller milestones to celebrate along the way.
In conclusion, embarking on a fitness journey as a beginner can be less daunting by following these five essential tips.
Start slowly, find a workout schedule that fits your lifestyle, prioritise safety in your exercise routine, fuel your body with the right nutrition, and set clear fitness goals. With patience and determination, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a healthier and happier you.
