Training For Beginners

When you decide to make a change for a healthy life, the steps you take can determine whether you keep going- or simply, give up. I get that- a gym can be incredibly daunting and not knowing where to start, what to do or how to even perform most exercises can leave you feeling embarrassed, scared and overwhelmed. Which of course, will result in you giving up. A few different methods of exercise to try (remembering there is no right or wrong, just what is right for you): All of these exercises are part of my lifestyle- I fit in what I can. If my day is absolutely full-on, and all I can fit in is a walk, that's what I'll do. Remember that, something all these exercises have in common is the need for motivation. You need to get yourself into your fitness gear and MOVE! It may be difficult to begin with, but over time, fitness becomes slightly addictive! It's pointless comparing your skill level to another, the only person you need to be working on bettering, is yourself. And if you choose just one, or all of the exercises below to work into your lifestyle, you're making a positive, healthy change.

Walking

Pros:

It’s free.
if you have kids you can put them in the pram
You can change your intensity without equipment (running, incline up a hill or steep road, etc)
It is gentle and you can go at your own pace
It gives you fresh air and you’re surrounded by the outdoors

Cons:

Without a walking buddy you may lose motivation.
It won’t tone your body as such, rather burn calories.
Compared to other body weight exercise (burpees, air squats, lunges) it doesn’t burn as many calories.

Gym Classes

Pros:

Motivation is off the charts! – you’ll want to keep going with the instructor cheering you on and everyone in the room with high energy
There’s a huge range of classes to choose from
They usually have a gym crèche for those with kids

Cons:

It’s a group environment so may be intimidating at first
It’s the same workout each time so without the weight progression you may not see results after a while and plateau
Sometimes the class may involve exercises you aren’t comfortable with or aren’t ready to perform

Gym

Pros:

Most gyms are 24/7
A lot have crèches for your kids
A lot have personal trainers to help you
The vast range of equipment gives you plenty to work with

Cons:

Personal trainers are expensive
It’s intimidating when you’re starting out
You may not know what to do or how to perform exercises with the correct technique
There is no one to motivate you to go

Crossfit

Pros:

Different, progressive type of workout
High intensity workouts
Motivation and accountability – you don’t want to be the one who doesn’t show up!

Cons:

It will require 3-6 months initially of building your technique and improving your fitness before you feel like you are not dying (lol)
It’s a group environment, which is a pro and a con

Body Weight / At Home Exercise

Pros:

Anywhere, anytime
Includes your children
Free (besides the program – if you choose to purchase)

Cons:

Motivation may be lacking
You may need some basic equipment
The technique may not be right and no one can check
After a while, the exercises may not challenge you without investing in equipment or weights

These are just a small list of the options you could do. This is simply the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the options- they’re endless- group sports, clubs, surf life saving- these are all exercise. Remember the key is to just get MOVING! Need help with technique? Youtube has so many technique videos to help get you started!