For many people, this is the time of year when they start thinking about getting ready for the warmer months. The thought of starting a fitness routine may be in your mind but it could be that you don’t know where to begin.
With so many different types of exercise and a variety of formats to choose from, it can be confusing to get started. It may even lead to some feeling so overwhelmed that they never move forward.
Let’s be clear on one thing…if you are a beginner, you shouldn’t try to incorporate intense exercise into your fitness plan. Not only are you at an increased risk of injury but you are also more likely to give up.
For most people, the best place to start is with walking. It is something we do anyway, but now we are just moving it up a notch. It is something that can be done at home on a treadmill, outdoors around the neighborhood or you might even take a scenic route through some trails.
Walking is something you can also do with someone else. If you can find a walking buddy, it will make the time go by much faster. And it may help you release some stress, not just in the physical aspect of walking but in getting a chance to talk.
Now don’t go thinking that the first day you start walking, it should be for a mile or two. Start slowly, with maybe just 10 or 15 minutes at the most. There are a variety of ways you can increase the time. One way is to add on 5 minutes very week or two.
To avoid boredom, don’t stick to the same route or path. Change things up every-so-often so that you get to take in new sights or views.
The other thing about walking is you can do it any time of the day. For some people, it’s a great way to spend their lunch hour. For others an early morning walk helps get them moving for the day.
Of course, beginners may also benefit from a fitness center. It’s a good idea to talk with a trainer who can guide you in the best way to implement a plan. They can explain the type of equipment that would best suit you.
Fitness doesn’t have to be regimented, however. If you take up a sport such as softball, golf or tennis you will be able to have fun and burn calories.
There is so much to choose from. The most important thing however, is finding something you enjoy and making sure you don’t try to do too much too soon.
Related Articles:
5 Tips for Your Morning Workout
http://fitness.families.com/blog/5-tips-for-your-morning-workout
The Best Time of Day to Exercise
http://fitness.families.com/blog/the-best-time-of-day-to-exercise
Journal Your Way to Fit Living
http://fitness.families.com/blog/journal-your-way-to-fit-living
Fitness for Busy Moms
http://fitness.families.com/blog/fitness-for-busy-moms
Putting Together a Fitness Schedule
http://fitness.families.com/blog/putting-together-a-fitness-schedule
Photo by neil alejandro on Flickr