How to Start and Maintain an Exercise Routine
The following 3 steps are essential if you are considering starting a new workout routine or if you are totally new to exercising.
1. Check Your Health.
It’s important to consult your healthcare provider and get a physical medical examination before starting an exercise routine, if you have any health concerns, if you are elderly and new to exercise or if you have any underlying health conditions.
An early check-up can detect any health problems or conditions that could put you at risk for an injury during exercise.
It can also help you optimize your workout, making it easier for you and your coach/personal trainer to understand your limitations and create an exercise plan tailored to your particular needs.
2. Create a Plan and Set Realistic Goals.
Once you decide to start exercising regularly, try to create a plan that includes attainable steps and goals. Again, a good health coach can guide you.
One way to do this is to start with a plan of easy steps to follow. Then you can continue building on it as your fitness level improves.
For example, if your goal is to finish a 5 kilometre run, you can start by building a plan that includes shorter runs.
Once you can finish those short runs, increase the distance until you can run the whole 5 kilometres in one session.
Starting with small achievable goals will increase your chances of success and keep you motivated every step of the way.
3. Make it a Habit
Another key component of exercise success is to make it a part of your daily routine.
It seems to be easier for people to maintain an exercise routine in the long term, if they make it a habit and do it regularly.
A review of studies concluded that replacing an unhealthy behaviour with a new healthier habit is an excellent approach to maintaining it in the long term.
Furthermore, making a schedule or exercising at the same time every day are good ways to sustain your routine and make it last. For example, you can make exercise a habit by planning to work out right after work everyday or first thing in the morning. It’s important to choose a time that works best for you.
Our next article will give you Important Tips Whilst Training. (Part 3 of 3)
