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If
you are like most Americans, you are embarking on a new fitness program
about now. Within 6 weeks, many people will drop out, half will quit
within 6 months and less than one third of those who begin a fitness
program will still be exercising by the end of their first year.
The
following are 10 simple tips to get you started in making the transition
from fitness drop - out to a person who will get fit, feel fabulous, never
have to diet again and have fun in the process.
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Don’t work out too hard, too fast;
you will end up sore and uninspired. Better to work out 2-3 days a
week for life than to work out 6-7 days a week for a couple of weeks,
every now and again. Consistency is key.
-
Schedule your workouts on your calendar as
if they were any other important
appointment.
This way, you will be able to balance your exercise program with
family, work and social activities. Again, you will be more successful if
you fit fitness into your current lifestyle. A little is always better
than NONE.
-
If possible, workout in the morning.
You will get it done, feel energized all day and will avoid “life” getting
in the way of achieving your fitness goals.
-
Stay off the scales.
As you get fit, lose fat and gain muscle, you will actually drop
inches and dress sizes and not move the scales all that much.
-
Choose a role model.
Ask an instructor or fitness professional for suggestions and advice on
how you can most effectively reach your goals. There are also a variety of
other resources on health and fitness available.
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Keep a fitness journal.
Chart your progress and accomplishments.
-
Give yourself a little leeway
– if you miss a workout or an entire week, get back on
track as quickly as possible. Setbacks and challenges are normal. The
quicker you get back on track, the quicker you will reach your goals.
Remember – fitness is not about being perfect, but about a series of
healthy choices that you make consistently. It is not an all or nothing
proposition.
-
Evaluate your Progress every 6 – 8 weeks
and increase the intensity of your workouts to stay challenged and
inspired.
-
Feel
like skipping a workout? Get yourself to do
something for at least 10 – 15
minutes. Most likely, once you start you will complete your
entire planned workout (If not, don’t fret, 15 minutes is better than
nothing)
-
Bored?
Unfocused? Change your routine a bit.
Add a Yoga, Aerobics or Pilates class. If you don’t care to join a gym,
there are many wonderful classes at the local rec centers. Try a new
exercise video or machine. Or, try an out door activity such as
bicycling or a beach walk
Article
written by Dianne Villano, President of Custom Bodies Personal Training and
Weight Loss Programs. Dianne is a personal fitness instructor certified
through the National Academy of Sports Medicine with over 16 years of
experience who specializes in weight loss programs and programs for
beginners. For more articles or free fitness tools visit
http://www.mypersonalfitnesscoach.com/
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