Set Realistic Goals and Create Your Action Plan
Determine how much weight or how many inches you want to lose divided by weeks and see if the end result is feasible. When you start working out, it can be easy to compare yourself to other people. They are on their own fitness journey just as you are on your own. Take your time in building your strength and confidence.
Here are some insights to setting your fitness goal:
- 4-8lbs a month is doable
- Count calories but don’t starve yourself
- Find exercise activities that you enjoy
- Use a fitness app or keep a journal to monitor progress
Schedule Your Workout When it’s Easy to be Consistent
The perfect time to workout is not the same for everyone. We all have different schedules and obligations. Convenience and a time of day you’re most motivated are key to making your workouts successful, consistent and productive.
Incorporate Diet Changes
As you gain confidence and see results from your workouts, you may find yourself tempted to continue to eat junk food. Don’t fall into the trap of saying to yourself, “I’m working out so I can have a double cheese burger.” Find your food triggers and find ways around them — like looking for low carb alternatives. Once you pair diet and exercise together, you\’ll notice physical changes happen quicker — like strength, flexibility, weight loss, and more.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
The human body is mostly water, which means staying hydrated is a must. You want to make sure you\’re drinking plenty of water daily, especially when you\’re working out. Every single cell in your body needs water in order to work properly. Staying hydrated can help regulate moods, improve focus, and keep you on track to your goal as well as flush out toxins.
Always Listen to Your Body
If you start to feel faint or weak at any time during a workout, take a break. You may be too dehydrated or pushing yourself too hard. Take a few moments to cool down and collect yourself before continuing. Don’t forget to stretch! Static stretching can reduce your risk for serious injury. It can also help your body properly warm up and cool down.
Listening to your body means:
- Ease yourself into workouts
- Understand mild soreness is normal
- If you\’re feeling stiff or can barely move, take a break
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/static-stretching
https://www.verywellfit.com/what-to-drink-for-proper-hydration-during-exercise-3120424
https://www.verywellfit.com/low-carb-substitutes-for-high-carb-food-2242524