How to Start Exercising When You Have No Clue What to Do.
Are you feeling lost when it comes to fitness? Take 5 minutes to read through this post and learn how to start exercising with these beginner-friendly tips, even if you have no clue where to begin.
* If you need more guidance, please click the link at the bottom and send us a message!
Introduction: Getting Started With Exercise
Starting an exercise routine can feel overwhelming, sometimes down right even scary! Especially if you have no idea where to begin. I imagine the intimidation that one feels when walking into a big old gym full of muscular youths flexing in front of the mirror and their phones, the ego oozing into the atmosphere. Gross. But never fear, Wellness League is here.
So take solace in the fact that whether you’ve never worked out before, or have fallen off track with your fitness goals, it’s never too late to begin or restart! In this post, we’ll walk you through simple, actionable steps to get started with exercising and create a fitness routine that fits your lifestyle. Simple is effective!
1. Set Realistic Goals
Before you even think about which exercises to do, it’s important to set realistic and achievable goals. Ask yourself: Why do I want to start exercising? Your goals will determine the type of workouts that work best for you. Some common fitness goals include:
Losing weight
Building muscle
Improving flexibility
Boosting energy levels
Reducing stress
Write down your goals and break them into smaller, more manageable milestones. This will keep you motivated and give you a clear direction as you move forward. Remember the acronym SMART…
Specific: Be specific in what you’re wanting to do.
Measurable: Make sure you’re able to measure progress.
Attainable: Make sure that your original goals are achievable, at least break the big goals up into smaller ones so the goal isn’t so overwhelming.
Relevant: Make sure the action you are taking is relevant to the goal!
Time: Be sure to put a specific time parameter in there that makes sense with the goal.
For more information about setting better health goals, check out Wellness League’s Health Coaching program!
2. Start Slow: Don’t Overwhelm Yourself
One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting an exercise routine is jumping into intense workouts right away. If you’re not familiar with exercising, it’s important to take it slow and gradually build up your stamina.
Start with low-impact exercises that are easy on your body. Walking, swimming, and cycling are great options for beginners. You can also try basic strength training moves like bodyweight squats, lunges, or push-ups. These exercises help improve your overall fitness level without overwhelming you.
3. Learn the Basics: Focus on Form Over Intensity
When you’re new to exercising, proper form is key to preventing injury and making the most of your workouts. If you’re unsure how to perform certain exercises, watch instructional videos or consider working with a personal trainer. Many gyms also offer beginner classes where you can learn the basics in a supportive environment.
Instead of focusing on how many reps you can do or how fast you can go, take the time to learn the correct technique. This will pay off in the long run as you increase the intensity of your workouts.
4. Create a Routine That Works for You
The key to sticking with exercise is making it a consistent habit. But how do you fit exercise into a busy schedule? Start by setting aside time each day for your workout, even if it’s just 20-30 minutes. Consistency is more important than intensity at the beginning.
You can experiment with different types of exercises to see what you enjoy. Some ideas include:
Cardio exercises: Running, cycling, or dancing
Strength training: Weightlifting or bodyweight exercises
Flexibility exercises: Yoga or Pilates
Choose activities that fit your personality and interests. If you enjoy what you’re doing, you’ll be more likely to stick with it.
5. Listen to Your Body and Rest When Needed
Exercise shouldn’t leave you feeling exhausted or in pain. If you experience discomfort, it’s important to listen to your body and rest. Overtraining can lead to injuries, which can set you back on your fitness journey.
Remember, rest is just as important as exercise. Make sure to incorporate rest days into your weekly routine, especially in the beginning.
6. Track Your Progress and Celebrate Small Wins
Tracking your progress is an excellent way to stay motivated and see how far you’ve come. Keep a fitness journal, use a fitness app, or take progress photos to monitor your improvements.
Celebrate your small victories, whether it’s completing your first full workout, increasing the weight you can lift, or simply sticking to your routine for a week. Every step forward counts!
7. Stay Patient and Be Kind to Yourself
It’s easy to get frustrated when you’re not seeing immediate results, but remember that fitness is a journey, not a sprint. Progress takes time, and it’s important to stay patient and kind to yourself along the way.
If you miss a workout or don’t achieve a goal right away, don’t give up. Fitness is about consistency and long-term commitment.
8. Consider Hiring a Personal Trainer or Coach
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about where to start, hiring a personal trainer or coach can be a game-changer. A professional can help guide you through your fitness journey and provide personalized advice tailored to your goals, body type, and fitness level. Here’s why working with a trainer might be the right choice for you: *Did you know that many super successful people have a coach? Here’s 6 reasons why successful people hire a health coach!
Personalized Guidance
A personal trainer can design a fitness program specifically for you, taking into account your goals, limitations, and preferences. Whether you're aiming to lose weight, build muscle, or improve your flexibility, a trainer will ensure you’re following the most effective exercises to reach your objectives.
Proper Form and Technique
Learning how to exercise with proper form is crucial, especially when you're just starting out. A trainer can correct your posture and technique, which will help prevent injuries and ensure you're getting the most from every workout. This is especially important for weightlifting, running, or any high-impact exercise where improper form can lead to long-term issues.
Motivation and Accountability
One of the biggest challenges when starting a fitness routine is staying motivated. A personal trainer can provide the encouragement you need to stay on track, even when the going gets tough. They also offer built-in accountability—when you know someone is expecting you at your workout session, you’re more likely to stick with it.
Variety and Progression
As a beginner, you might get stuck in a workout rut or feel uncertain about how to progress. A personal trainer can introduce you to new exercises, challenge your body in different ways, and make sure you're continually progressing. Having a professional in your corner means you’ll never run out of workout ideas and can continue improving over time.
How to Find the Right Trainer for You
When searching for a personal trainer, it’s important to find someone who is certified, experienced, and aligns with your fitness goals. Many trainers offer free consultations or initial assessments, which can be a great way to see if their style works for you. Look for trainers who have certifications from reputable organizations like the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) or the American Council on Exercise (ACE).
If you're unsure about in-person sessions, many trainers also offer online coaching, which can be a more flexible and cost-effective option while still providing the guidance you need.
Is Hiring a Personal Trainer Worth It?
While personal training can be an investment, it’s worth considering if you want to ensure you're starting your fitness journey on the right foot. For beginners, having an expert guide you through the basics of exercise can save time, reduce the risk of injury, and help you achieve your goals faster.
For more information about why having a Personal Trainer can maximize your performance…. click here!
Conclusion: You Can Do This!
Starting an exercise routine when you have no clue where to begin may feel intimidating, but with the right mindset, support, and consistency, you can absolutely succeed. Start slow, learn the basics, and focus on building a routine that works for you. Most importantly, remember that every little step counts, and progress is worth celebrating.
Are you ready to take the first step towards a healthier, more active lifestyle? Start today and see how amazing you can feel with regular exercise.
