BEGINNING AN EXERCISE PROGRAM

The best way to get something done is to begin, but if you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten. There are three questions you must ask yourself in order to effectively begin an exercise program. Why am I doing this? When will I get started? How am I going to do it? Knowing why, when, and how to begin an exercise program is paramount for success.

Most people understand the importance of physical activity. The benefits are numerous, but to just name a few; energy is boosted, strength is increased, endurance is enhanced, risk of disease is reduced, sleep is improved, and the list goes on and on. The health benefits of regular exercise and physical activity are hard to ignore. Everyone benefits from exercise, regardless of age, sex, or physical ability. Exercising will not guarantee years added to your life, but it will add life to your years.

Your conditioning matters not. Your experience makes no difference. Everyone has to begin somewhere. Don’t let yourself be intimidated by the crowded gym. There are always non-intimidating alternatives. Take Body Structure for example. We pride ourselves on our non-intimidating atmosphere and experienced staff to create a welcoming, safe, and always helpful environment. So, to answer the question of when…the answer is…NOW!

Figuring out how to begin can be quite a roadblock for many. Through a variety of resources, you can find limitless options and opinions, but, often times, they are not the most appropriate plans for your needs. Please keep in mind, with any fitness program, the number one priority should be your safety. To reduce the risk of injury, begin an exercise program by establishing a solid movement foundation before progressing to more complex exercises. We’ve all heard the old adage, “one must learn to crawl before walking.” Don’t come out of the gate running. Crawl first. A fitness professional can be a valuable and reliable resource for determining the “how.”

Once your own “why”,” when”, and “how” have been determined, you must remain diligent and consistently stick to the plan. Between work deadlines, vacations, family obligations, etc. it is easy to fall off the exercise bandwagon. Set yourself up for success. Set smaller attainable goals that lead you in the right direction. Regularly achieving small goals keeps you on track and cumulatively leads to big change. Reward yourself for a job well done. You reached a goal you set for yourself, as long as the reward doesn’t undo the success, go for it and enjoy. You earned it.

Always remind yourself why you started. Stay persistent. And enjoy the journey on your way to achievement.