How to Start a Workout Routine for Beginners
Thinking about starting a workout routine? Whether you’re motivated to get more fit or a healthcare provider has recommended some lifestyle changes, exercise is a vital component to improving your physical and mental well-being.
The thought of taking better care of yourself can be exciting, but if you aren’t really sure where to start — especially as a beginner — starting a workout routine can be especially overwhelming too.
To set yourself up for success, follow these tips as you begin your journey to better health!
- Set clear goals.
Determine what you want to achieve through working out. Whether it's losing weight, gaining strength, improving flexibility or enhancing overall fitness, having specific goals will help keep you on track.
- Consult with a healthcare professional.
Before starting any new exercise program, it's important to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.
- Choose activities you enjoy.
Workout routines take consistency to be effective, and you’ll have a better chance of sticking to it if you find activities that you enjoy. It could be walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, dancing or joining a fitness class.
- Start slowly.
Begin with low-intensity exercises to allow your body to adapt, gradually build strength or endurance, and avoid injuries. Over time, slowly increase the intensity, duration and frequency of your workouts.
- Warm up and cool down.
Prior to exercising, warm up your muscles with dynamic stretches or light cardio to get your heart rate up. After your workout, cool down with static stretches to improve flexibility and aid in recovery.
- Incorporate strength training.
Include strength training exercises at least two to three times a week. This can be done using free weights, covered exercise bands or even your body weight. Focus on all major muscle groups, including the legs, arms, chest, back, shoulders and core.
- Listen to your body.
Pay attention to how your body feels during and after workouts. If you experience pain or discomfort, modify or stop the exercise. It's normal to feel some muscle soreness, but excessive pain could indicate an injury.
- Stay consistent.
Consistency is key when starting a workout routine. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week, along with strength-training exercises.
- Track your progress.
Keep a record of your workouts, noting the exercises, sets, reps, and weights or resistance used. This will help you track your progress over time and provide that extra push to keep going.
- Stay motivated.
Find ways to stay motivated, such as setting rewards for reaching milestones, finding a workout buddy, or joining a fitness community. Results take time, so be patient and celebrate small victories along the way!
Remember, it's important to listen to your body, be consistent and make gradual progress. Starting slowly and building a solid foundation will help you establish a sustainable workout routine as a beginner.
As a beginner, incorporating exercise bands is an effective way to work out safely, establish proper form and still get the results you want. To learn more about FitCord Resistance Bands or get your own, visit www.fitcord.com.