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
- 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
- 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
- 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!
- 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)
- 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
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