Starting an exercise program, whether for fitness, weight loss or just to feel and look good is a positive step. There are so many benefits from exercise. However, it is important to commence an exercise program correctly so that you don’t burn out early, or worse, get injured and give up. Here are some free exercise tips to help you get your exercise program off on the right foot.
1. Set personal goals.
It is important to set long and short term goals for yourself. Long term goals help you go the distance. Short term goals help you keep on track. If you have a goal to lose a certain amount of weight, or cover a certain distance on your bike in a given amount of time at a predetermined time in the future, you will be more likely to strive to achieve the goal and stay focused.
2. Start at a pace you are comfortable with.
Everyone says it – but it is important. Firstly, get a medical check up if you have not exercised for a while. Second, start any exercise program slowly, so your body can adapt to the new stresses you are placing on it. Follow this tip and you are much more likely to get through the first few months, rather than burn out and give up.
3. Get an Exercise Program or Schedule.
Following a pre-set exercise program or schedule is important to give you direction and get the most out of exercising, and importantly, will stop you overtraining and burning out. Most weight training programs recommend that you focus on a body part every second day to allow for recovery of the muscle group. Having direction will ensure you keep coming back.
4. Reward Yourself when you Achieve Targets
Rewarding yourself by buying something you need/want when you hit a certain weight loss target, or beat your personal best time for a given distance, will continue to inspire you to achieve, and will keep you focused on your goals.
5. Choose exercises you Enjoy.
On of the most important exercise tips I can give you is to choose exercises that you enjoy. If you get bored on a treadmill, get outdoors and see the sights as you jog. The same applies for exercise bikes, and getting out on the road. If you enjoy other peoples company, join an aerobics class. You could even do karate to get exercise while learning another skill. Do what you love and you will continue to do it.
