The most common challenge that people I talk to face is how
to incorporate fitness into their lives. They know they have to do something to
get in shape but they really don’t know how. It can be discouraging because of
the abundance of information out there. So much that you may not know where to
begin.
Our society has so many food choices that it is easy to pack
on the extra pounds. Also our day to day jobs are less physical as they where
100 years ago so we have more sedentary life styles. We know there are benefits
involved when we exercise and cleaning up or diet. However, most of us know
don’t know how or where to start.
So where do we begin? Or is the question: How do we begin?
The very first thing you need do is go to your doctor and
get the approval to start exercising. Your doctor may also provide some helpful
tips as well.
After you get the “OK” from your doctor, try these 5 things
to help you get started:
Make the Choice to Start Exercising and Eating Right
Making the decision to do something provides a form of
commitment you made to yourself. Deciding that you need to change behaviour
creates new possibilities. When you say to yourself “I need to get in shape”,
it means something. You should be answering these questions in your mind: When
can I work out? What exercises do I need to do? What foods should I be eating?
Make yourself think about the commitment you just made. Only then you can let
go of the past and take steps to move forward.
Write Down What You Do
You need a reference that is realistic towards your weekly
activity. Write down everything you do during the week. This should include
work hours, commuting hours, nights spent with your spouse, your child’s
activities and anything else you can think of that you do. You should also
include what you do on weekends. You should make a list for each day of the
week. Here’s why…..
Some people set lofty goals like working out for 2 hours a
day. This can be due to an old saying, “More is Better”. However, this is not
the case. Knowing your schedule will help you set realistic goals and help you
find a few hours a week to start exercising. You’ll have a visual perspective
on what you can and can’t do with your routine.
Research and Get Information
Most people do not have enough information before they start
a workout program. So how do we get the information we need? The good news is
we live in the information age. Take advantage of your favourite search engine
and learn a little bit about fitness and nutrition. However, do not go
overboard and lose focus. Find a source of information you like and take notes.
Find the simplest and easiest workouts and nutrition tips. Don’t over load
yourself with information.
If you have the money, hire a personal trainer for a few
sessions to help you get started. Hiring a personal trainer is a great way to
get started because you have made a commitment to meet someone to workout. Your
goal is to have the trainer show you the basics on exercise and eating
healthier. It may also be safer to learn how to perform the exercises
(especially if you have not exercised for a while).
Create a Simple Plan and Set Realistic Goals
Keep it Simple! Following a simple plan while on a hectic
schedule is much easier than following an elaborate plan. You should have a
plan of which days you want to work out and one goal to change your eating
habits for the next few weeks. For example, “I will work out for a half an hour
for 3 days this week. I will eat a little less each meal.” Simple is success.
Execute Your Plan
Now that you have a plan, all you need to do is follow it.
This is another big step. You should look at your plan every day upon waking.
You need be mentally prepared for the great day ahead of you. Having your daily
schedule in hand will help you achieve your goals for the day. When you
complete your workout for the day, highlight it or cross it off your list. It
will show you that you accomplished something for yourself. No matter what you
must execute. This will be the hardest (and most rewarding) step.
I hope these things help you get started on a new life of
physical fitness. Life is filled with making decisions, knowing your
commitments, getting information, planning and execution. Try these approaches
for yourself and you will see that having your own workout and nutrition
program is not as far-fetched or complicated as you think.
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