Deciding to be more active is an incredible first step to cashing in all of the amazing benefits of exercise, from better moods to improved sleep to all-around higher confidence.
But once you’ve resolved to start working out, that’s where things can get a little overwhelming. With all of the chatter about the magic workout to do or the perfect amount of time to spend in the gym, it’s hard to know where to start. And if you’re not clear about what you’re doing (or why you’re doing it), it can be easy to throw in the towel when things don’t go as planned.
Here are a few tips to get started and stay on track with your fitness journey:
1. Identify your “why,” “what,” and “how” so you can be clear about your goals (you can even write these down).
2. Try starting with three 30-minute workouts a week to pace yourself.
3. Prioritize consistency over intensity.
4. Find other active people to support your efforts.
5. Do workouts you actually like—you’re more likely to stick with it.
6. Invest in a great pair of shoes.
7. To avoid burnout and injury, start slow and take breaks during your workouts.
8. Accept that you’ll have setbacks, and that’s OK.
9. Think of working out as an act of self-care.
10. Don’t skip your warm-up and cool down.