5 Tips For Exercise Newbies

I don’t know what your situation is but I've seen a lot of people that have been paralyzed by procrastination for years when it comes to starting up exercise. There could be lots of reasons for this, but often they just don’t know where to start and lack a simple plan of action.

It’s Easter in a couple of days, and if having a long holiday weekend with the family, indulging in chocolate eggs and all kinds of sugary treats was holding you back from getting started, then from next week you have no more excuses. All you need is good 3 months of consistent effort to get in the shape of your life in time for the summer, and develop the exercise habit, in order to maintain the results.

For those of you who have been consistent with training – massive well done. The following tips may help you reevaluate your current plan to make sure you are taking all the necessary steps to become the best version of yourself.

Know Your Goals

Have a clear vision in your mind in regards to what you’re looking to get out of exercise. Imagine what it will feel like when you have reached your goal. In words of Napoleon Hill "Whatever the mind can conceive, and believe, it can achieve".

Learn To Love Exercise

Find something you enjoy and get excited about it. There are so many different sports you could try. If shape is the primarily goal, to get the desired results you will have to do the basics – resistance exercise and cardio. Nevertheless, mix it up and keep it interesting for yourself, and you will never lose motivation.

Eat Clean, Refuel Yourself After Workouts And Be Consistent With Your Nutrition

In regards to getting in shape and burning body fat, nutrition is responsible for about 80% of the results. You cannot out-train a poor diet. Also the energy levels and general health are dependent on it. Always go for fresh, organic, unprocessed foods, and increase the amount of protein to recover from exercise.

Listen To Your Body And Progress Gradually

Don’t rush it. Especially if you’ve had years of inactivity prior to getting on a programme. Find the right exercises for yourself that are not going to get you injured. Always use proper form. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t push yourself hard. Make sure you see consistent progress – gradually increase the intensity, volume, weight etc.

Choose Your Information Sources Wisely

Knowledge is key. Get professional help such as online personal training or one-to-one sessions if needed. There is so much contradictory information around and it’s very easy to fall for bad advice. The poor quality of information available in mainstream media and government guidelines that are inherently wrong don’t help with this situation. Different things work for different people, and you have to find what’s right for yourself. That comes with experience. Always check the person’s credentials when it comes to health guidance.