When beginning an exercise program, don't make the mistake that many novices make, doing too much too soon. People who start an exercise program that's too tough for them rarely stick to it. This is one of the main reasons people stop exercising soon after beginning a fitness program.
Exercise is a great lifestyle habit to form. You feel better and are much healthier. It's easier to lose weight when you work out too. With all the benefits of exercise, why do so many people quit soon after beginning an exercise program? One of the main reasons people quit is that the program they have planned is too advanced. When you first start exercising, it's easy to get excited and plan a workout that's just too tough for you. If you have worked out for a while, you might be eager to get into shape or fit into that slinky new dress. The excitement is a great thing, just be patient with yourself.
Your body needs time to adjust to the demands of a new fitness program. When you do too much, your body is sure to let you know. It will speak loud and clear. You'll suffer from shin splints, sore muscles, and joint troubles. New exercisers are likely to suffer the pains of overexertion to the point that they have to stop working out for a while. This can make it difficult to start back. Many people don't like the thoughts of the seemingly inevitable pains of exercising, so they completely stop.
You don't have to suffer from overexertion when beginning an exercise program. Give yourself time to ease into your new fitness program. Your body will thank you and you'll enjoy it much more. Start your new fitness activities well within your ability level. Not quite sure what that is? Invest in a couple of sessions with a personal trainer. She can administer a series of tests to plot your current fitness level and prescribe an appropriate beginning exercise program to meet your individual needs. If a personal trainer isn't an option, start out with a 30 minute, moderate intensity workout.
You should be able to carry on a conversation if you have to, but you probably won't prefer to speak. If you are very sore after the first day, or have trouble completing your workout, you're doing too much. A small amount of muscle fatigue is normal, but if you are very sore, it will be hard to do your next workout. Your next workout should be a little less intense or shorter in order to be sure you are not overdoing it. It's fine to be challenged, but overexertion is not a positive way of beginning an exercise program. If your goal is long term success, you are better off to start a little slower so that you can develop the healthy lifestyle habits that can benefit you for a lifetime. Exercise can be an enjoyable part of everyday life. Easing into a new fitness program ensures your experience will be a positive one. Before you know it, you'll be an old pro at exercise!