Starting a new fitness routine can be both exciting and intimidating. Whether you're just beginning your fitness journey or looking to revamp your current routine, it's common to encounter things that can make it challenging to stay on track. Understanding and overcoming these obstacles is key to establishing a sustainable and enjoyable fitness regimen. Here, I'll share some common challenges people face when starting a new routine and how to best overcome them (as well as some coaching solutions that I have available if you prefer a bit more structure).
Common Obstacles and How to Overcome Them
- Lack of Time
Solution: One of the most common excuses for not exercising is a lack of time. However, fitness doesn't require hours at the gym. Schedule short workouts during lunch breaks or while waiting for dinner to cook. Consistency is more important than duration, especially when starting out. (My On Demand Workouts can be a great way to get started. It offers workouts as short as 5 minutes and as long as 50 minutes.) - Fear of Failure
Solution: Many people hesitate to start a new fitness routine because they're afraid of not succeeding. Set realistic, achievable goals that match your current fitness level. Achieving those goals will help you to build confidence. Remember to celebrate small victories along the way! (If you want a personalized approach to your fitness, I offer Online Personal Training. This program is tailored completely to you and the goals you are wanting to achieve.) - Intimidated by the Gym Environment
Solution: Gyms can be intimidating for beginners who don’t know where to start but still want to make sure they are building lean muscle. Spoiler alert: if you have some dumbbells or even just empty jugs you can fill at home, you may not even need to go to the gym! (My Beginner Strength Training program offers exercises to help you build that lean muscle right at home.) - Lack of Motivation
Solution: Staying motivated is tough, especially if you are someone that has historically put your own health and wellbeing on the back burner. One thing that really helped me as I began my journey to become active was looking for an event to focus on outside of weight loss. Find something you’re interested in and build into it slowly, using the event date as a motivator to keep working. I chose a 5k race and started using short intervals of running to build up my endurance. (I developed my Learn to Run program based on that experience, and have built in warm ups, stretches and core workouts to make it a much more well-rounded approach than how I learned to run.) - Injury Concerns
Solution: Fear of injury can deter people from starting a new routine. Focus on proper form and gradually increase intensity to reduce the risk of injury. (With any of my workout programs, you receive a video to accompany each and every exercise. Bonus: structured progression helps prevent overuse injuries.) - Not Knowing Where to Start
Solution: With so much information available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Start small, focusing on the basics and getting moving however you like. Something is always better than nothing! (If you feel like you just need a helping hand to start, I offer one-time virtual consultations that do just that!)
Tips for Successfully Starting a New Fitness Routine
- Set Specific, Measurable Goals: Define clear objectives to track progress and maintain focus.
- Create a Routine: Establish a consistent schedule that fits your lifestyle and stick to it.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and reward your achievements to stay motivated and positive.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels and adjust your routine as needed to avoid burnout and injury.
- Seek Professional Guidance: If you're unsure where to begin, use a coach! It doesn’t have to be me–there are lots of amazing coaches out there that want the best for you!
Starting a new fitness routine is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to overcome challenges. But you can do it! Remember, the most important step you take is the first one. And once you start your journey, just take it one step at a time.
If I can help you, please reach out!
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