"You are doing your best, and your best is getting better."
Hey ,
Over the weekend, my uncle asked me a simple question: "How do I start exercising?" Simple, yes, but the truth is - there's no one way to get started, so I responded the best way I could:
"You just have to start somewhere."
Now, before you throw tomatoes at me, let me explain.
My uncle is not alone. We've all been beginners before, and we all had to navigate the ups and downs of being a beginner. However, most people (like my uncle) start an exercise program with the best intentions, but they quit before getting the results they were seeking.
Why? Because setting realistic fitness goals is hard to do. We want to be the fastest and fittest overnight, but the truth is, no matter what your end goal is, it takes time and consistency.
Knowing that my uncle had tried different programs before, I told him when it comes to running and building strength, focus on the process, not the outcome.
If he wants to run a 5K, he has to start by walking more. If he wants to bench press 300 lbs, he has to start with 20lb dumbbells. If he wants more energy throughout the day, he has to prioritize his eating and sleeping habits.
Instead of getting overwhelmed by the fitness magazines and blogs, I gave him a simple plan to try this out for the next week:
Go for a walk: Go for a walk 3x this week. Instead of focusing on distance, aim for 10-30 minutes to work with your busy schedule.
Increase your water intake: Drink 3-4 additional cups of water than you usually do. I recommend one in the morning, around lunchtime, and before bed.
Eat two more servings of vegetables every day. You get bonus points for dark, leafy greens.
You'll notice that this plan doesn't require my uncle to cut out any food or activities that he enjoys doing. Instead, he'll slowly build the habits that support a consistent fitness routine.
, if you need some help getting started, feel free to follow this routine for the next few weeks. Then, if you're up to it, join us for our free beginner's 5K training program kicking off on Monday, October 18th. Sign up here.
