How to start working out and stick with it?
- Samara Patlo
- Jan 17, 2021
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 10, 2021
Most of our jobs need us to be desk-bound for hours. Yet, we must ensure we maintain a physically active lifestyle. The first step to having this healthy lifestyle is to form a well-informed mindset. Never think of exercise as just a tough prerequisite for a good body. Understand why working out is important and how it helps for your overall development.
Start right away Stop waiting for special days to start, do not wait for the first of the month or a Monday. These days come and go. Do not end up spending hours coming up with a workout plan, but never actually starting. Take the initiative, and start right away. Start with even 10 minutes, but stay consistent, and make it a habit. You can improve with time.
No time for a workout? Create time. Your health should be one of your topmost priority. Move always, take the stairs whenever possible, and have a skipping rope handy. There are plenty of quick workouts, try them. This one is my personal favorite. This is just even ten
minutes long. But, it leaves you completely sweaty and makes you burn plenty of your calories.
Set and track milestones Whatever your final goal is, to gain or lose weight, to tone your body or bulk up, set realistic milestones. Work towards them, and consistently track your progress. You could use your phone apps or fitness tracker to do this.
Move throughout the day Working out for an hour and staying sedentary for the rest of the day does no good. Take breaks from work and walk. Walk while on phone or while attending a long zoom meeting. Have a target of at least 7000 steps in a day.
Workout boredom is real Bored of doing the same old workout every day? It’s time to spice it up. Frequently change your workout routines.My personal favorites are Zumba Class and Popsugar fitness on youtube. Do check them out and trust me, you will love them.
Make workout fun Take up outdoor activities. Go for a run, try hula-hooping, engage in sports. Have a workout partner, it could be your sibling, friend, or partner. You can stop each other from making stupid excuses to skip workouts.
Invest in yourself If you have some money to spare, make investments that help you reach your fitness goals. Buy a fitness tracker, plenty of low budget options are available as well. Hire a fitness trainer, at least for a month. They help you bring direction to your fitness routine.
Consume fitness-related content There is amazing content available on fitness, in all forms. This includes documentaries, youtube videos, or even fitness pages on Instagram. Following them, helps you stay reminded of your fitness goals. But, do not compare and feel low. Remember, everyone’s journey is unique and beautiful.
Take up challenges You can find many workout challenges for 10 days, 30 days, etc.
Both free and paid versions of these will be available. Take them up and complete. They give you a sense of accomplishment.
Mistakes are common: Sprained your leg while exercising? Didn’t work out for a whole week, due to office stress? It’s okay. Don’t be very hard on yourself, after all, we are all human. But, it is crucial to pick up where you left and not give up completely.
Together, let’s all transition to a fitter version of ourselves!
NOTE: These are all my learnings from my decade long relationship with fitness. Take these with a pinch of salt. Always consult a qualified professional when doubtful.
It's really motivating! Thank you.