Exercise Newbie or Not, Four Things to Know

1) Everybody starts at a different fitness level

Don't compare yourself to other peoples’ fitness level. Each of us are unique with our own body shape and abilities. Embrace who you are and do the best you can do.

2) Move forward from where you are right now

Set a short term attainable goal. If you want to run two miles without stopping, and you're at one mile now, then you just need to practice running more. Work towards adding a little extra distance each week until you get to your two miles. Progression takes time in anything you choose to do and patience is your friend.

3) Don't exercise like a maniac

When most people begin a fitness program they usually overdo it by exercising at a high intensity every workout. At that high rate it won’t take long before you burn out and quit altogether. We don't have to exercise hard every workout. It’s important to give your joints and ligaments time to adjust, otherwise an injury is not far off from taking you down. Ease into your exercise routine, you want to make this a habit that sticks.

4) Pay attention to how your body is feeling

If you're getting overly tired or overly sore it's time to lay off a bit and rest up. Recovery time is needed and good for you, so don't view it as a set back, or something negative. Rest up by doing less strenuous workouts during this time such as moderate walking or simple mobility work. A gentle yoga or mat Pilates class would also be great, and can help you get more in-tune with your body. Positive things happen when you allow your body to heal and rest a bit. Sometimes what we take out of our fitness program leads to greater results in the long run.
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By keeping these simple tips in mind you will experience greater success in sticking with your exercise program. Strive towards having your exercise routine become a healthy achievable habit by staying safe and injury free so you‘ll get the most from your workout and time while improving your health and well-being.