Do you want to start a workout journey but just don’t know where to begin? Maybe you feel insecure working out around others or aren’t confident using the gym equipment. Perhaps you don’t think you’re “in shape” enough to begin.
These feelings are common among fitness rookies, especially women. The good news is, you can start your fitness journey anytime, and these simple tips will make the transition easy and fun!
1. Find a Gym You Love
There are all types of gyms out there, each with unique benefits and perks. Some have low membership rates with no commitment, others have a wide range of fitness classes, and some studios specialize in specific fitness styles like yoga, kickboxing, or Zumba.
Figure out what’s important to you in a gym. What classes do you want your gym to offer? Do you prefer a large chain or a smaller fitness studio? Perhaps privacy is important to you and you want a gym that has a dedicated women’s area like GymNation.
The gym is home to your fitness journey, so be sure to choose one that includes your needs and preferences.
2. Just Start
One of the most common things that hold women back is the thought that they have to get in shape before they can join a gym. This could not be further from the truth.
The gym is meant for everyone, from beginners to intermediates, all the way to advanced heavy-weight lifters. There is no rule that says you have to be at a certain fitness level before you can join.
In fact, not being where you want to in your fitness journey is the perfect reason to start. There are always ways to modify workouts and ease into it, and you have tons of staff around to help you do that. So, the best advice: just start!
3. Stick to Workouts You Love
Listen, nobody is going to stick to a workout routine that they don’t enjoy. If you hate running, don’t waste your time on the treadmill every day. If you don’t like the idea of working out as a group, don’t feel obligated to sign up for a class.
That’s not to say that you shouldn’t try out new things, challenge yourself, or push yourself on the days you’re not motivated. However, many women have the misconception that they have to run or use the elliptical to get in a good workout. If you love those machines, by all means, have at it! But if you force yourself to use them, your fitness routine will not be sustainable.
The point is, there are so many ways to get in shape and feel good, and you can certainly find a workout you love. It’s all about moving your body in any way that you enjoy. Whether that means treadmill sprints, dancing away in Zumba class, challenging your muscles with heavy weight lifting, or simply enjoying a relaxing yoga class, you can truly get fit while doing what you love!
4. Get Accountable
Beginning a fitness journey is the easy part; sticking with it is what’s hard. Set yourself up with some accountability so you’re more likely to be in it for the long haul.
Some ways to create accountability include:
- Paying for a gym membership
- Finding a workout buddy
- Hiring a personal trainer
- Writing your workouts in your calendar
You Can Do It
Everyone’s fitness journey is different, but don’t expect it to be linear. There will be ups and downs, days you fall off track, and times you think about throwing in the towel.
What’s important is that you remember why you started in the first place, pick yourself back up after you fall, and keep going. The tips in this article will aid you in your beginner’s journey to bring your fitness to the next level and create a lifestyle you love.
A professional writer with over a decade of incessant writing skills. Her topics of interest and expertise range from health, nutrition and psychology.