Starting a new fitness routine can be both exciting and intimidating. Whether you’re returning to exercise after a break or trying it for the first time, the key is to approach it with a mindset of progress, not perfection. With a focus on building sustainable habits and not just your big end goal, you can create a routine that supports your physical health, mental wellbeing that will last you in the long term.

Check out these practical tips to help you get started with your new fitness routine, from setting realistic goals to finding joy in movement.

Start with small, realistic goals

Embarking on a new fitness routine can feel overwhelming, especially if it's been a while since you’ve exercised regularly. To make it more manageable, start by setting small, achievable goals. For instance, aim to walk for 20 minutes a day or complete a short home workout three times a week. These bite-sized objectives will help you build confidence and momentum without feeling intimidated.

Track your progress to stay motivated. This could be as simple as noting how you feel after each session or keeping a record of your steps. Celebrating these little wins can provide the encouragement you need to keep going.

Make movement enjoyable

The key to sticking with a fitness routine is to make it something you genuinely enjoy. Not everyone loves the gym, and that’s okay. Explore different activities to find what excites you, whether it’s dancing, yoga, swimming, or a brisk walk in the park. Experimenting with various forms of exercise can help you discover what suits your personality and lifestyle.

Consider joining a class or exercising with a friend to add a social element. Having a workout buddy can make the experience more fun and keep you accountable. Remember, the best exercise is the one you’ll look forward to doing.

Prioritise nourishment over restriction

Starting a fitness routine often goes hand-in-hand with changes to your diet, but you don’t need need to go cutting out your favourite foods and treats. Instead, focus on what you can add to nourish your body. Incorporate more whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals. These foods provide the energy and nutrients your body needs to support physical activity and overall wellbeing.

Stay hydrated, as water is essential for optimal performance and recovery. Keep a bottle handy and make hydration a habit throughout the day. If you’re engaging in more intense exercise, consider including electrolytes in your drinks to maintain balance.

Establish a consistent routine

Consistency is more important than intensity when starting a new fitness habit. Set aside specific times for your workouts and treat them as non-negotiable appointments. Whether it’s early in the morning, during your lunch break, or in the evening, find a time that fits your schedule and stick to it.

Creating a routine helps to build discipline and makes exercise a natural part of your day. To avoid monotony, vary your workouts by alternating between cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. This not only keeps things interesting but also ensures a well-rounded approach to fitness.

Listen to your body

As you ease into a new fitness routine, it’s essential to pay attention to your body’s signals. While some muscle soreness is normal when starting out, sharp pain or prolonged discomfort is not. Learn to differentiate between the two and adjust your activities accordingly. It’s also important to recognise that it shouldn’t derail you completely - too much time off for recovery will put a stop to your routine consistency, so try to sub your usual training sessions for low impact, gentle activity rather than skipping them completely.

Prioritise rest and recovery, as these are crucial for preventing injury and allowing your body to adapt to new challenges. Incorporate rest days into your routine and consider activities like stretching or foam rolling to aid recovery.

Focus on mindset

A positive mindset can make all the difference when adopting a new fitness routine. Avoid comparing your progress to others and focus on your own journey. Celebrate your efforts rather than fixating on perfection.

Practise self-compassion on days when you feel less motivated or miss a workout. Instead of dwelling on setbacks, remind yourself that progress is not linear and every step counts. Maintaining a growth mindset will help you stay resilient and committed in the long run.

To sum up

Starting a new fitness routine doesn’t have to be daunting. By setting realistic goals, finding enjoyable activities, and prioritising nourishment, you can create a sustainable approach to health and wellbeing. Establishing a consistent routine, listening to your body, and focusing on a positive mindset are equally important for long-term success.

Remember, the journey is unique for everyone; try to copy someone else’s routine or start a cookie-cutter routine that’s not specifically adapted for your life and it likely won’t work in the long term. Take it one step at a time, celebrate your progress, learn what suits you, and trust the process. Small changes, when done consistently, lead to significant transformations over time.

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