One of the hardest things about an exercise program is to get started and then to stick to it. Keeping on track requires a strategy since having the discipline is not always easy.
Staying on track will get you where you want to go. You probably already know all the benefits of exercising. Unfortunately, this is not always enough of a motivator to get started.
Getting success requires that you create a positive mindset and have a consistent approach. Here is a look at what you need to do in order to achieve your exercise goals.
Go Small
You may have developed an idea that you haven’t really exercised unless you have spent hours in the gym. This is not true at all. It is better to get in fifteen minutes of exercise that gets your heart rate up than to not get any exercise at all.
Try starting off with ten minutes a day for just two weeks to challenge yourself. Once you have conquered this you will find that you are more inclined to continue.
Curb Your Expectations
You should make sure that you keep your expectations at a realistic level. It took you a long time to get out of shape so it will also take you a while to get back to looking your best.
If you put too much pressure on yourself in the beginning it will make you more likely to quit. Take things one day and one step at a time. Stop obsessing about how much you weigh and about seeing a specific result. Consistency is the key to achieving your goals.
Vary the Intensity
You don’t always have to be doing a high-intensity workout to actually get benefits. Varying the intensity of your workouts will allow you to stay motivated even when things get challenging.
For most people, moderate exercise is sufficient to see great results. When you are doing moderate-intensity workouts you will find that you will be breathing a bit heavier than normal.
Your body will begin to feel a bit warmer but never overheated and you should not be sweating profusely. There is no need to overdo things in order to get results.
Try doing exercises on machines, you can lose weight on a rowing machine and a treadmill. Using machines will help you to vary the intensity of your workouts.
Drink a Lot of Water
You should drink a lot of water. To get the best results from your body you need to be hydrated. If you fail to drink enough water to remain cool you can become overheated.
This can be dangerous for you especially if the weather is already hot. You could end up getting heatstroke.
Pay Attention to What Your Body is telling You
If you start feeling pain or any kind of discomfort when working out then you need to stop immediately. There is no rule that says you have to push past severe pain.
Take your time to rest especially if you are just getting started. If you are feeling better after you have rested for a while then you can resume your workout. Powering through pain will leave you injured and unable to workout for a while.
Warming Up and Cooling Down is Important
Make sure you warm up before you get started. This is a great way to get the body ready and it also motivates you to continue your workout. Warm-up the muscles that you will be using, you can do lunges, arm swings and leg kicks.
Cooling down is also very important. It takes a few minutes but it is important because it allows your heart rate to return to normal. Stretch the muscles that you have used, this will help with soreness and prevent injury.
Ask Your Doctor
You should never start an exercise program without first contacting your doctor. Tell your doctor exactly the type of fitness program you want to begin, he will advise you about the safety of what you are doing.
Getting this kind of clearance is important because it helps to prevent you from starting a program that will do more harm than good.
Get in Shape
You now know exactly what you need to do to get in shape. All you have to do is start small and conquer the small routines before you move on to harder ones.
The joy and accomplishment you feel from conquering one challenge at a time are what will make it easy for you to continue working out. Always remember that before you begin any exercise program you should consult your doctor.
If you are considering a program that may be detrimental to your health your doctor will know and suggest something more manageable for you.
