If you have not exercised in a while, starting up again can be a little daunting. Either you don’t know where to start, or you try to pick up where you left off and just end up hurting yourself.
When it comes to getting back into shape, there are a few key principles that will never steer you wrong:
1) Start slow
Exercise is about consistency. You can build intensity over time, but at first, just get started again.
A great way to get going is to start with the warm up only. Don't even worry about getting a "workout" in until you have done two weeks of warm up.
I know this sounds too slow, but it will help in two ways. First, it will make sure you are consistently doing the exercises that will help you prepare for working out.
Second, it will focus you on consistent exercise instead of going all out on day one, and then needing to take a week off because you are too sore.
2) Begin with the core
One you do start adding your "real" workout into your routine, start by focusing on core strengthening movements.
As you probably already know, core strength is fundamental to fitness. If you don’t have a strong core, you will have slow results and you can end up hurt.
By focusing on core first, you will build up your foundation so that you can take on more challenging exercises later.
3) Prioritize recovery
Eating well, stretching, sleeping, and foam rolling are all important parts of the fitness success recipe.
You can have the best workout in the world, but if you do not give your body the proper tools to recover, then your workouts will not give you the results you want.
Never forget that exercise is not what makes you fit. It is only through recovering from exercise that your body gets stronger and burns more fat.
Which Exercises Should You Start With?
Now that you know some basics, let's talk exercise. You want to get started again and we want you to get the best results possible.
That is why we will be sharing specific exercises that are great when you are starting up a fitness program again. These will help rebuild a strong foundation while still feeling like you got a workout.
So, if you want to learn what to do as you are trying to get back into shape, check out the video below!
Now that you know how to get started, it's time to put those exercises into action. As you get going, however, you might find that you are need of more help.
What other exercises should you add in? And when?
Are you doing these exercises correctly?
How are you going to keep yourself accountable to sticking with you plan?
If you find yourself asking these questions, it might be time to give us a call. We love helping people reach their fitness goals, and can help you feel more confident in knowing that you are doing the right exercises in the right way.
Just see how we were able to help Lauren B. as she was getting back into fitness:
If this sounds like something that might help you too, please reach out today and see if we are a good fit. Just click the "schedule a call" button in the upper right and we'll look forward to talking with you soon!
Mint Condition Fitness empowers people to take control of their fitness and fully enjoy the life they have built.
"Last year, I started noticing that my balance, strength, and mobility were all declining. I just felt old. I noticed that one of my friends moved like she was always comfortable—like she was 10 years younger than either of us actually are. I wanted to feel the way she looked! When I asked what she was doing, she said she went to Mint Condition Fitness.
I tried it out and joined. I was really surprised. I’ve never enjoyed working out. Mint is fun. The staff are always upbeat and genuinely friendly. My trainer creates a workout for me every 6 weeks that meets my specific needs and includes stretching, balance, and strength. The progress is very evident at a comfortable pace for me. The exercises are varied and interesting.
This is a great fitness option for people who want real health benefits, a great staff, a clean pleasant environment, and a tailored, personal program. I look forward to going and I feel disappointed when I have to miss a session!"