We all know getting fit and staying fit should be our goal. Unfortunately for many, just getting started on a fitness schedule is a scary thought. With numerous options, and sometimes too many opinions, fitness has become more of a trend and less of a lifestyle. Classes all over the world offer everything from Zumba, Body Pump, Bootcamp, Crossfit, to Pole Fitness! Even indoor surfing is a thing...and let's not forget the ever popular Spinning! Where does one begin? Do you get right on the pole or do you do a WOD? I know...what???? Lol!
Let's get to the basics and find a fitness program that is simple and effective for you! First and foremost, know your limits, get a health evaluation, and remember to have fun! It is not about the hottest trends, or what everyone else is doing. It is about what is going to keep you fit for life!
I often like to ask a simple question, what do you enjoy doing? This one question can get you started on the right track to staying fit long term! The reason so many people fail at fitness is because they are jumping head first into a fitness trend, not ever thinking about what may be fun for some, may be torture for others! How do you know what you like? Here's a easy way to find out using some simple questions:
-do you enjoy being in a group atmosphere or prefer to sweat alone?
-are you one to hit the dance floor and love loud music?
-do you use a road bike?
-when you think of running, do you get excited?
-do you enjoy being outdoors and in the woods?
-does building muscle make you cringe or does it excite you?
-do you prefer working out at home or at a gym?
Once you have answered these questions, it will give you a basic idea of workouts you could try! For
example; if the thought of running or biking makes you cringe, and you hate the idea of dancing, I
would rule out Zumba, Pole Fitness, running and spinning, instead start with a basic strength training
class like Body Pump, Bootcamp, or CrossFit. Personal training may also be a perfect fit for you! One on one training is one of the most efficient ways to get fit. The trainer is only focused on you and your goals, you are the priority! This makes it a very effective way to get in shape! If running outdoors sounds amazing and you love the idea of music and dancing, try Belly Dancing, Zumba, running, Spinning, Hooping, or a cardio based fitness class!
What if classes don't sound appealing to you? Look to Nature first!! Great ways to get fit outside is by taking advantage of your local rental companies! Almost everywhere, you can now rent SUP Boards, skis, Kayaks, and bikes! You don't need to invest in expensive equipment right away. I love to hike, it is free, it is always an adventure and works your body without you even realizing it. It gives you the opportunity to bring you dogs, and just enjoy the amazing surroundings...and let's not forget the breath taking views at the summit! If you prefer the comfort of your living room, check out YouTube for some killer FREE workouts like Body Rock TV. You can also purchase DVDs like
P90X or download Kayla Itsines BBG workout.
Now that you have narrowed it down to what YOU enjoy, make a schedule you feel comfortable sticking to. For example, many do a Monday, Wednesday, Friday fitness schedule and plan to commit to those days and it just becomes habit! It is so much easier to plan ahead and know what days are your training days, this helps you avoid last minute struggles to find a class or plan a workout!
Alright! You have found workouts you think you'll enjoy, and you are on a set schedule! Now all you have to do is START! Remember, it is normal to feel exhausted or overwhelmed at first, this does not mean it is time to quit or give up! It means you are doing exactly the right thing, pushing your body a little more than it is comfortable with. If you are taking classes, I highly recommend talking to the instructor and getting right up front in class. You want to be able to see exactly what the instructor is
doing and be able to signal her if you are struggling.
Don't forget to check out your local running groups, Meetups, races, or discounted classes at community centers! I recently joined a few groups on Meetup to help me find others who enjoy hiking and running, I also joined a local running group so I can stay up to date on all the local running events! Use these resources to help keep you motivated and surround yourself with a fit community!!
Fitness doesn't have to be complicated, a simple trail run or a 30 minutes body weight workout is all you need. But if you prefer to get into a class, there are so many available! Remember, fitness isn't about hopping on to the next trend, it is about finding what works for you! If you love hiking, do that, if you love running, do that! Don't get caught up in what every one else is doing, because when you are doing what YOU love and what works for YOU, you will be successful!
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