Getting in shape can be a long and stressful process. Jumping in with no plan can cause you to become frustrated quickly. Choose a time when you have the energy to devote to a new workout routine to get it started, whether it's a week off from work or a quiet Saturday morning. Starting your new routine on a positive note will make it easier to follow through and meet your goals.
Get Professional Help
Seeking help and advice from professionals ensures you start your new routine on the right foot and do so safely. If you're very overweight or have a history of any health problems like heart or lung trouble, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss what types of exercises are safe for you to do. Meeting with a nutritionist will help you learn about foods that will give you the energy to work out most effectively. If you're planning to join a gym, scheduling one session with a personal trainer there can help you learn how to use the machines safely and correctly.
Survey Your Wardrobe
Creating a wardrobe of comfortable and supportive workout gear will make you feel ready to being your new routine. Pull out all your comfortable old T-shirts, running shorts and sweats and try everything on to see what still fits. Buy new workout clothes to supplement what you already own, making sure you have at least one full outfit for each day of the week. You may also need new sneakers if you don't own any or if your pair is worn out. Talk to a clerk at a sports equipment store to ensure you choose the right shoes for the type of exercise you plan to do.
Assess Your Fitness Level
Measuring your fitness level has multiple purposes. You'll be able to track your progress, and you'll be able to develop reasonable goals for yourself. Time yourself while you walk one mile. To ensure you're walking exactly a mile, walk on a track with mile markers. Measure your pulse before and after the walk. Count how many pushups and situps you can do comfortably and weigh yourself. Write all these figures down so you can measure the same things a few months into your routine.
Make a Fitness Plan
Your motivation may wane after a few mornings of getting up for an early-morning run, so making a workout plan is essential. Write down how often you want to exercise and what exercises you want to do each day. Write out one week's plan at a time and post it somewhere visible, like your bedroom mirror or the front of your refrigerator. Writing down your goals will also help you stay motivated. Write down the number of pounds you want to lose or a goal like "run a mile without stopping" and hang this sheet up in a visible place as well.
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