How to Create a Successful Fitness Plan
By Sara Butler
Starting a new fitness regimen can be a bit intimidating. But you can be successful even when you've failed before by simply having the right tools. Once you've made up your mind to focus on your health and physical fitness, there are a few things you can do to meet your fitness goals. Here are some tips to help you get started.
How to Get Started
First and foremost, you should write down any fitness goals you have. Research has shown that people are more likely to stick with a new fitness plan if there are some specific goals identified before you even begin. Even the small goals matter, not just the big ones -- so write down everything you want to do in both the short and full term.
You also want to be honest with yourself about your current level of fitness. You cannot expect to start training for an Ironman competition if you've not exercised in a few years. Your goals must reflect the fitness level you're at right now, not where you've been before or where you want to go. If you want to exercise the right way, you must start slow and work your way up to a better, more improved version of yourself.
Speaking of exercising the right way, that includes avoiding injury. That's why it's important to warm up and cool down before and after each workout. Also, to avoid injury, diversify your workout. If you try to jump headfirst into one thing, it'll be easy to burn out or skip the next workout.
And don't forget to drink plenty of water, especially when you're sweating!
A Few Things to Avoid
Sure, you're excited to get started now that you've made up your mind, but don't do too much too fast. You should schedule workout days and rest days in-between to give your body enough time to recover and get stronger. You should also make sure to eat in a way that promotes healing and rejuvenation after a workout, focusing on a healthy diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Remember, your workout is only going to be effective if paired with a healthy diet plan, too.
If you need help working on your new fitness regimen, then talk to the chiropractors at The Joint, especially if you suffer from a chronic disease. They can help you understand your limits and give helpful hints to help you get started.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Shiloh, Ill.