Tips for Working Out for the First Time
By Sara Butler
Regular exercise can be something you look forward to – once you get started, that is. Being new to a workout routine is challenging. If you’re confused about where to start, then there are a few tips and tricks you can use to help you establish a routine and stick to it.
Stay Safe
Before jumping in feet first to a new exercise routine, make sure you get the all-clear from your healthcare professional, such as your chiropractor. Only medical professionals you work with regularly will know if the physical strains you want to put your body through are advisable. Get the green light before stepping foot in the gym.
Go Back to Basics
Maybe you used to work out and got pretty good at certain things. Well, you need to forget all that came before and start with the basics when beginning a new workout routine. Doing too much too soon can lead to injury and that will just push your goals back!
Listen to What Your Body is Saying
You remember when your high school gym teacher used to tell you “no pain, no gain,” right? Well, forget they ever said that, because they were wrong. Feeling muscle fatigue or burn during a workout is normal, but the pain is not. Avoid injury by listening to the signals your body is sending you.
Keep Form Your Focus
What’s more important than how much weight you lift or how many reps you do? Your form, of course! Ten reps with perfect form are worth more than 100 sloppy reps when it comes to building muscles and making progress toward your fitness goals. Always get the full range of motion out of each exercise – that’ll ensure you’re getting the most you can from it.
Don’t Compare to Others
It can be easy to compare yourself to the person on the next treadmill but try to avoid it. You should never judge your own results on your perception of what others have achieved. You must remember that every single person is different and their fitness journey is not yours.
Mix Up Your Routine Up
Instead of jumping on the stationary bike for 30 minutes each day, try to add a little variety to your routine. Do the stationary bike one day, the elliptical the next. If you can mix multiple forms of exercise together, then you’re more likely to find a combination that is right for you and one you enjoy.
Exercise is essential to good health, but make sure you're doing it right!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gahanna, Ohio.