Are you new to fitness? You might be wondering where to begin. If you’re considering starting to work out but are unsure of where to begin, this article is for you. We have compiled the top ten fitness tips to help you get started - and stick with it long-term!
1. Check your health
Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider and get a medical exam before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you have any health concerns or conditions.
2. Identify your "why.”
Why are you starting a fitness regimen? Are you trying to lose weight for health, to feel more confident, to improve energy? Are you trying to set a healthy example for your children? Having a clear “why” will not only help you focus but can keep you going when motivation or enthusiasm wane.
3. Set realistic goals and plans.
Start with your major, long-term goal then break it up into smaller goals. Develop a clear plan of steps to follow to reach your goals. Whether it’s losing weight, increasing strength or muscle tone, improving endurance, preparing for a marathon or competition, it’s important to address things from both a fitness plan and a nutritional plan. Commit to 3-5 workouts a week, make plans to prepare food ahead of time, and enlist the support and resources you need to start - and stay on track. The good news: LunaFit can help! Join our fitness community in person or online and enjoy group fitness classes, nutritional coaching, support, and accountability to keep things fun and on track!
4. Connect with other active people to support your efforts.
They say we become like the people we spend time with the most. Having friends, coworkers, family, and others who prioritize health and fitness can be contagious and may be just the thing you need to keep you going when you’re feeling unmotivated or get off track. There are also benefits to working out with a partner or in a group. It tends to be more fun, and people are more likely to stick it out, work harder, and even make new friends. This is part of what has made the LunaFit such a popular program in the Altamonte Springs and surrounding area - as well as for those seeking virtual fitness classes and nutritional support. Our program goes beyond fitness and nutrition and includes the accountability to help you see it through. In addition to long-term health and fitness results, many of our members have also ended up making long-term friendships as well! Our group fitness classes in particular are known for being an ideal mix of challenging and FUN!
5. Consistency is key!
Research has found that replacing an unhealthy habit with a new healthier habit is a great way to maintaining it in long term. Being consistent makes it a habit, and making it a habit makes it a lifestyle - and one that results in longterm, ongoing change! The great thing about group fitness classes is that they make it easy to get into a consistent regimen, classes are offered at the same time with a mix of familiar and new faces. Another way to stay consistent with your health and fitness goals is to set yourself up for success. Meal plan and prep, pack or lay out your workout clothes ahead of time, and commit to 3-5 days of fitness classes a week.
6. Accept that you will have bad days and setbacks.
What matters most is that you’re patient with yourself - and that you get back on track. Consistent effort > perfection.
7. Think of health and fitness as self-care.
Working out and eating healthy are the ultimate forms of self-care. They improve your life physically and mentally, as well as boost confidence, energy, and wellbeing.
8. Remember your warm-up and cool down.
Dynamic stretching before you workout, and taking time to stretch after are great ways to prevent injury while improving flexibility.
9. Skip the fad diets.
Food is fuel, and the ideal lifestyle incorporates solid nutrition with enjoyment in a way that is sustainable long-term. LunaFit offers in-person and virtual nutritional coaching to help you on your fitness journey.
10. Be prepared for your first workout.
Hydrate before your workout and bring water and/or electrolytes for during. Dress in comfortable clothes that you can move and sweat in. Footwear is important, make sure you wear shoes that fit well and support your feet, but that you can do a variety of movements in from walking and running to lunging, squats, jumping, and so on. A towel and a healthy post-workout snack are other great things to add to your gym bag.
Check out our class schedule then contact us to learn more about how you can get a FREE WEEK of group fitness classes!