You want to get fit, but you’re not sure how to start. If you’re a couch potato whose idea of fitness entails wielding the remote like Harry Potter’s magic wand while doing curls with a can of soda, the process might seem overwhelming. Here are some tips for a slow, steady start that will successfully get you off the couch and enjoying better health.
1. Exercise by Doing Things You Enjoy
If you love playing in the water but hate running, don’t begin your foray into fitness by training for a 5k. Instead, join a gym with a pool and participate in the swim club or water fitness classes. If you love to dance, get fit while having fun learning a new dance technique or taking a dance fitness class.
2. Replace Unhealthy Food with Healthy Options You Enjoy
If the idea of eating tofu and sticks makes you cringe, don’t do it. Instead, begin by eating an extra serving or two of your favorite fruit or vegetable. Eat a banana instead of that sugary desert. If you like a particular vegetable, have an extra serving with lunch or dinner.
3. Hydrate in Ways That Work for You
Everyone know it’s important to drink water, but some folks simply don’t like the way it tastes. When eating out, you can select water and ask your wait staff to serve it with a lemon or lime wedge. If you don’t like the taste of tap water, install a filter. Herbal teas are also good sources of hydration, so pick one you like and drink it either hot or cold.
4. Create an Inspiration Board
If you want a fitness plan you’re sure to stick with, create an inspiration board with images, quotes and other things that inspire you. You can even incorporate your ultimate goal and photos of healthy foods you enjoy.
5. Create Accountability
Professionals who offer in-home personal training in New York City have suggested that regardless of your personal preferences in health and fitness, accountability is the key to success. Once you’ve discovered what motivates you and put together a plan for getting fit, you need to find someone to whom you’ll be accountable. A fitness group at your gym will work. You might get a coach to help you stay on track, or you can find a friend with similar goals to help you along the way.
Fitness plans work best when they are personalized. Take the time to reflect on your own preferences in food, drink and exercise.