I saw an interesting Facebook post a few weeks ago. It said that most fitness professionals are always preaching to the converted. In other words everything we write or talk about tends to be focused on people that already know about exercise and nutrition at least to some extent. In light of that, I want to talk to the people out there who want to start but don’t know what to do. Rest assured, it’s really simple and I’m going to give you 7 easy ways to do it.
1. Walk. If you’re starting from ground zero then the first step is simply get up and go for a walk. If you never walk, than start going for a nice 20-30 minute walk once a week. It is that simple. The key to all of this is to pick something that you know you can do and build on it.
2. Pick one thing and take it out of your diet 5-6 days a week. Notice how I didn’t say to overhaul your diet completely? Notice how I didn’t say to take one thing and get rid of it completely? Let’s say you have a bowl of ice cream or one of those fancy coffee drinks most days. Choose one and pick one or two days a week where you allow yourself those treats and refrain from them the rest of the time. Again, make sure you pick something you know you can do and build on it.
3. Be honest and realistic about your goals. So many people think they should “lose weight” or “get in shape” just because they think that’s what they’re supposed to do. Take the time to figure out what you really want and why and you’ll have much better chance of meeting your real goals.
4. Have fun. Figure out something you like doing and do that. If you hate walking then maybe that’s not for you. If you hate lifting weights then maybe that’s not for you. Remember, we’re talking about just getting started so let’s make it something you enjoy and will stick to.
5. Keep it simple. I know this can be overwhelming but don’t let that get to you. It’s not as hard as some make it out to be. As a matter of fact the simpler you make it, the better your chance of success.
6. Talk to someone. I don’t mean to turn this into some commercial but there are people who specialize in helping people who have never exercised and getting them started in a safe, fun and effective way. Find someone you’re comfortable with and that has worked with others like you.
7. Look for improvement, not perfection. Everyone wants, and should want, great results. Oftentimes, however, the feeling that you’re so far away from your ultimate goal makes it more difficult just to get started. Just think about getting a little better on a consistent basis. That’s more realistic and better for you in the long run. Also, if you do this you’ll be shocked how quick results can be in coming. Remember, a watched pot never boils!
When it comes down to it, all of these suggestions have one thing in common: make it as easy as you can to get started. I’ve read that the success rate of someone who changes one habit at a time is between 70-80%. Two habits at a time is 30-40% and three habits is almost non-existent.
Let me know what you think.
Mitch Rothbardt, CPT, PN Lean Eating Coach, FMS
2861 Grove Way in Castro Valley
510-754-7113
I Help People Discover Their Strength!
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