Start Your Successful Fitness Journey Today

I was recently asked what advice I’d give to someone starting their fitness journey. This couldn’t have come at a better time than when a lot of people are trying to get into shape for the holidays.

I ended up with 7 things one can do to start a successful fitness journey. Without wasting any more time, here is my advice.

1.  Start with A Simple Strength Training Programme

Don’t over complicate it. Trainers will argue over the perfect strength training programme and the perfect rep range and what not. In the end, it doesn’t even matter.

Simply keep track of your strength progress. This will determine if the programme you are working is right for you. Are you stronger today than you were 6 months ago? If you answered yes, then is this great, you probably gained muscle mass. And if you answered no? Then you missed something. Go back and start again.

2. Eliminate Excessive Cardio

If you enjoy running or doing cardio then more power to you. However, the majority of your training should be strength training. Eat lean protein sources to help you build muscles such as fish and chicken. Unless you’re a vegan or vegetarian then eat plant-based protein. The main point here is for you to lift too.

3. Track Your Calorie Intake and Burn Them

Download a calorie tracker app like MyFitnessPal. It is free. You can download it at the Apple App Store or Google Play for the Android version for your phone or tablet. Learn what realistic food portions look like. If you have time to binge watch your favorite show on Netflix, then you have time to track your calories. It will help you, believe me. Just do it.

4. Walk More

Purchase a Fitbit or another step tracker device. It will remind you to be more active especially if you are sitting at your desk all the time. Set a goal for 10k steps a day. Believe me, it’s not as bad as you think. Your body will thank you.

5. Work Out with Others

A quick search through an online community group like Meetup can help you find free activities happening in your area. You can find free yoga classes or a weekly hike group. Switch it up. Working out with others will also help you stay motivated.

6. Set Attainable Fitness Goals

This step is a no-brainer. However, people will set the bar high and fail at achieving their fitness goals. Be sure to set attainable goals that you know that you can accomplish. Remember these goals aren’t set in stone. They can be altered as needed.

Here is a great tip: However long you think you need to get in shape: double it.

7. Eat a Well Balanced Diet. NOT Every Diet Out There Works

Trust me. I’ve tried a lot of different diets. Be sure to do the following. It will help you commit to your diet.

1. Pay attention to calories
2. Don’t restrict food groups
3. Find a diet that you can commit to

By utilizing these simple tips, you are well on your way to a successful fitness journey. Remember that your fitness journey will have its up and downs but stay committed and you will get the results that you are wanting. If you need any additional help, please feel free to reach out.