Monday 7 April 2014

Getting started is hard but here's a few tips

There is no point denying it; exercise can be hard.  We all know it is a good idea, we all want to do it, but actually putting on the trainers and getting into the kit is tough.  Once we start we tend to enjoy it, and certainly enjoy the benefits it brings.  But getting started is the tricky bit.
So, what do you do?  How can you start something that you really don’t want to do?
Here are a few tips:
Small steps work
Be reasonable with yourself.  Don’t try to climb mountains when it fact hills scare you.  The key thing is to make sure that at the end of your first training session, you want to do more.  So, don’t try to run a mile; run for 5 minutes. If that goes well, run for 6 minutes tomorrow, and work up to ten minutes over a few weeks.  You’ll be surprised how your body gets used to it.  In a month, ten minutes will be easy!

Get company
Go to the gym or work out with a friend.  Chat while you are jogging or walking.  Make it a social thing and then you are far more likely to do it and enjoy it.  Or even better join a team, so there are lots of people to encourage you and keep you motivated.
Treat yourself
There is nothing wrong with a reward.  Keep yourself going by promising yourself a long relaxing bath, or the latest episode of Games of Thrones, or a new pair of jeans at the end of the month – whatever works for you.  Then think of the treat you are getting as the workout goes on.  It’ll help you through the tough bits.
Think long term
You are not going to get to Olympic standard in a week.  But little and often will make a difference.  Plan to see how you’re doing in three months, six months, and don’t worry if you don’t see a difference in a few days. 
Be nice to yourself!
Exercise is not a punishment.  It is good for you and will make your live better and longer!  So don’t give yourself a hard time.  Be gentle, take it easy, treat yourself and use your friends.
Before you know it, you will be running, swimming or cycling that mile, and wanting to do more!

No comments:

Post a Comment