Have you ever experienced this situation? You eagerly start a new fitness routine with much enthusiasm and the very best of intentions. The first week you work out until you reach the point of complete exhaustion. Finally, you’ve so sore and exhausted you’ll find almost any excuse to not work out. Unfortunately, this situation is far too common in a world where we expect immediate gratification.
A new body isn’t built in a day. Even if you’re on the best fitness routine available, you need to develop patience. It takes time to see changes in your strength, stamina, and energy level, much less changes in your weight and physical appearance. If you recognize this from the beginning, you’ll be more likely to continue your exercise routine even when it seems like you’re not making progress.
You also need to understand the importance of exercise consistency. Select a realistic routine you can stick with for the long haul. If you’ve never exercised don’t design a strenuous fitness routine. Give yourself reasonable exercise goals you can accomplish and reward yourself for achieving them. If it’s your first time exercising, start out walking at a moderate pace for a short time interval the first week. When you successfully reach that particular goal, add to your speed and time the next week. Of course, reward yourself for a job well done. .A small reward is a great fitness motivator.
Be sure to choose an exercise routine you truly enjoy. This can make all the difference in terms of being successful. If you despise going to the fitness club, why not take your fitness routine outdoors where you can appreciate the beauty of nature as you exercise? If walking isn’t your favorite activity, consider an alternate activity such as biking. Just make sure you’re working out hard enough to get your heart rate up into the cardiovascular training region.
Don’t be afraid to vary your chosen fitness activity. If you do the same exercise routine on a daily basis, your body will eventually adapt and you’ll stop seeing improvements in your strength, stamina and weight loss. Choose a day every 7-10 days to maximize your fitness routine by increasing your speed or performing a more rigorous activity than you do on standard workout days. For example, if you’re a walker, try jump roping at a fast pace on days you maximize your fitness routine. This will ensure you continue to make gains and will help to prevent burnout and exercise boredom.
Give these suggestions a try and make fitness a lifelong and enjoyable habit.
Dr Kristie
Guest Writer
This article is intended to convey general educational information and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.