Fitness basics… Where to start?

Starting your fitness journey can be daunting and anyone who has achieved their fitness goal will tell you that at the beginning they too experienced insecurity and doubt. This insecurity is not unique to you. No journey begins without uncertainty.

So I decided to put together a little back to basics post with some tips for all those wanting to start their fitness journey but who are unsure of where and how.

The body is complex and people are constantly learning more and more about it every day. Because of this, the information out there can be quite overwhelming and daunting.

I personally feel that balance is the key. As long as you eat a healthy, balanced diet that you can maintain and exercise consistently then you’re winning!

Don’t over complicate things and don’t restrict yourself.

Here are some of my top tips:

Mindset, mindset, mindset:

Fist and foremost get your mindset right! The battle starts and ends in your mind. Shake off the shackles and believe, if you believe you can you will and visa versa. It’s never too late and you’re never too old, trust me, you will be amazed at the capabilities of your body when you just believe.

Start with classes –

If you’re very new to this and have no idea what to do. Classes are a great place to find your feet especially if you are a newbie with absolutely no experience.

Ask for help –

If you’re venturing out to the weights area for the first time.  I would recommend you get yourself a trainer or a friend who knows their way around the gym to help show you the basics. It’s good to have someone at the beginning to assist with form.

If you start training incorrectly you could end up doing more damage than good. You want your hard work to pay off and be worth it.

Have a plan –

Make sure to have a plan before you hit the gym, that way using your time effectively. Don’t waste your time at the gym figuring out what to do.

Eat! –

Make sure to fuel your body. Your body needs fuel to build muscle. For example, I eat 5 meals a day (3 full meals and 2 snacks). Try to make sure that each of these meals consists of a good balance of protein, fats, vegetables and carbs (No carbs are not from the devil).

Don’t train when you’re hungry –

I recommend training 1-1.5 hours after a meal. And have something to eat after your session.

Don’t forget protein – 

Protein is essential for repairing and growing your body and is not only for the purpose of building muscle but is the foundation of every cell. Proteins are the building blocks of life, essential for survival and proper function of the entire body. It will not make you bulk up but more likely help you lean out. Protein is satiating, which means it makes you feel full for longer.

You should consume 1 – 2g protein per kg of body weight depending on your goals.

Drink water –

At least 8 glasses/2 liters a day! This habit alone will help you start dropping unwanted weight.

Don’t overtrain –

Busting out 2-hour sessions at the gym is probably more detrimental than beneficial. Overtraining can lead to body fat storage and loss of muscle tissue and other ailments.

Rest –

Make sure to rest. This is when your muscles repair themselves and in so doing grow and tone up.

Keep it simple –

There are so many awesome exciting exercises all over the internet but just be careful, some of those fancy ones that look like they’re gonna give you the booty of your dreams may actually give you the knee injury of your lifetime. Simple old school exercises are at most times the best.

Mix it up –

Try all different types of training and foods. See what works for you and what your body responds to. Everyone is different and what works for me may not necessarily work for you. Also change your schedule up from time to time, that way preventing your body from hitting a plateau.

Go at your own pace –

Everybody is different. Go at your own pace, do not compete with others. Your only competition needs to be yourself. Your goals should be based on your pace and strengths.

Be Disciplined – 

Remember motivation is fleeting. We all have moments of inspiration and motivation, but if we’re not disciplined these moments never become more than just that, moments. Have the discipline to take on your goals.

Have Fun –

And last but not least, have fun and enjoy exploring your body and its capabilities. It really is amazing! Let your focus be health, as ultimately the health benefits far outweigh the aesthetic, the rest will follow.

The reason I do this is to be healthy, the body is a bonus.

And I’ll leave you with my favorite quote:

It’s a shame for a woman to grow old without ever seeing the strength and beauty of which her body is capable – Socrates

Good luck and please post any questions in comments!! x