Many of us want to commit to a healthier lifestyle with a good workout routine, but stepping into the world of fitness can be daunting. If you’re completely new to it, you may feel discouraged by the many questions you may have—where should you start? What works best for your goal? Here’s what to know before you work out to give you a head start.
Exercises To Start With
There are three recommended forms of exercise that make up a general physical fitness routine: cardiovascular activity, strength conditioning, and flexibility training. Cardio is the most accessible, as it includes walking and running, and you need only devote 20 to 30 minutes of your day to get a sufficient workout and reap the benefits that come with cardio. Strength conditioning will target your major muscle groups and might include at least some mild weightlifting. Find weights that allow you to complete a set of 8 to 12 reps comfortably, and gradually work toward heavier weights as they become more comfortable. Otherwise, increase the number of repetitions. Lastly, flexibility training like yoga will help you with optimal Range of Motion of your joints, help you feel more limber, and help you to avoid injury as you work out.
Working Out at Home
With the COVID-19 pandemic ongoing, you’re most likely working out from home, which leaves you without much guidance or help from others. Beginning on your own puts you in danger of committing easily preventable mistakes that some simple research can prevent. Luckily, once you have an idea of what to know before you work out, there is plenty of home workout equipment you may be interested in. Treadmills and stationary bikes are great ways to complete your cardio quota, small weights like dumbbells are easy to store and don’t require much room, and yoga mats work well to give traction while you stretch to avoid slipping while the soft material prevents damage to your joints.
Consider Your Diet
Just as vital as physical exercise, you should also adjust your diet. Not only will this stop you from negating your exercise with unhealthy foods, but a proper diet will give you the energy you need to complete your workout as well. Healthy carbohydrates like whole wheat bread, vegetables, yogurt, and fruits will provide your body with ample fuel to burn into energy, and protein from meat and seafood will help to repair and grow your muscles.
