By: Nancy Jin
Starting a fitness journey can be exciting yet challenging. Reflecting on my own experiences, I've learned five crucial lessons that have transformed how I approach fitness. These insights have not only helped me achieve my goals but have also improved my overall well-being:
1.) Sometimes, less is more!
I used to believe that I had to do crazy long hour sessions of HIIT, running, and training in order to achieve my goals. But all of that working out led to major burnout and self-deprecation and the cycle would begin again. Once I started to learn to work with my body rather than against it, I started to lose fat, get more toned and feel balanced. 30 minute movement daily is all you need to start. It could be a walk first thing upon waking or a quick 12 minute pilates series if that’s all the time you have. Then as you build your schedule you can incorporate walking during your lunch break, or a Youtube video in between classes. The main goal is to just move. Not strenuously, but in ways that feel good.
2.) You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on equipment or classes.
If you’re a college student, use your free gym. If you’re living at home, use your basement! Any space that you can move your hands and legs freely is valid. Start by learning the basics through Youtube. Some of my favorite instructors and videos are:
Nicole provides free 15-40 minute pilates, barre, and yoga classes. There are so many different exercises to choose from including workouts that require no equipment to a light set of weights. The choice is yours!
Sami is one of my OG fitness guru’s. From her lifestyle content, to workout classes, she has been so uplifting and has changed my life for the better. Her workouts use a mix of pilates and weight training.
Maddie is another OG fitness guru whose workouts are consistently great! She has targeted videos for those looking to work on specific areas of their body and also has beginner to more advanced videos with no equipment and also equipment.
3.) Get clear on your WHY.
Knowing why you want to get fit can be a powerful motivator. Whether it's to improve your health, boost your confidence, or set a good example for your loved ones, having a strong reason can help you stay committed when the going gets tough. Fitness is a journey, not a destination. Clarifying your "why" can help you stay committed for the long term, even when results may not be immediate.
4.) Sign up for local classes!
Signing up for classes such as barre, yoga, pilates, spin, or boxing can hold you accountable because you spent your hard earned money on them. They’re nice because they force you (respectfully) to get your butt out of bed and move your body! So if you don’t want to be responsible for paying a missed class fee, go to class, move your body and let out those endorphins!
5.) Be kind of yourself.
Give yourself grace and a pat on the back. Celebrate your small wins. A small win could simply be you got out of bed today, you know you want to be better, or even the fact that you are reading this. If you are not who you were a year ago, you already won. Keep going!!! You got this, and we are so happy and here to support you along the way.
Comments