January is a very popular time for fitness. Once we crack open that new calendar, we get excited by all of the possibilities, the new year has to offer.
One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to start working out. That’s awesome! We all should take steps to better ourselves physically and mentally.
However, once February rolls around, gyms are pretty empty. Why is that? Because the people who were excited in January lost their excitement.
If you want to actually stick to your new workout plan this year, there are some things to keep in mind.
Here are three keys to starting your new workout plan:
Start Slow
It’s going to be tempting to go full steam ahead. You’re excited, and you probably want to work as hard as you can to get to your results as fast as you can.
That’s great! You should be excited. However, if you want results that last, you have to make your exercise sustainable. When you work out too much to start, you risk burning out.
On top of the risk of burnout, you’re also risking potential overuse injuries. If you haven’t exercised in a long time, your muscles will need to get accustomed to movements, and you will be sore.
Instead, focus on building fitness and exercise into your routine. It’s difficult to find an hour every single day of the week, so maybe limit it to two or three days at first.
Build Gradually
Building a rhythm is the most important thing you can do to start. You don’t have to have a perfect workout or form right out of the gate. Over time, you build those things.
Once you feel comfortable with your new routine, you can start ramping up the intensity. Don’t double your output, just add one or two reps, sets, or new exercises.
After a while, you’ll have a better idea of exactly how much time you need to get a good workout in. If you feel like you can make more time, add another workout somewhere in your week.
Push yourself to add new things but do your best to avoid being overwhelmed. You want to make this a habit, not a chore.
Switch Things Up
Like anything you do all the time, your workout plan will probably become a little bit boring. That is a good thing. It means you are working hard consistently.
What’s the cure for boredom? New challenges! When you feel like fitness has become stale, add something new to your routine.
Instead of only lifting weights for every workout, try to mix in some cardio, yoga, flexibility training, or sports. Doing things that you’re curious about and enjoy is a great way to spice up your routine.
If you find that nothing is excited you, there is no shame in adding an extra rest day. Your mind – like your muscles – needs time to recover. If you feel like you need it, take the day off. When you feel ready, get back to it!
Click here to read more Movement-related blogs!
