4 Important Tips for Fitness First-Timers
There is nothing easy about changing lifestyles and dedicating yourself to a fitness routine. However, one of the most common mistakes beginners make is that they go to the gym without knowing what to do or where to begin. Here are four important tips for fitness first-timers to use as a guide and improve their experience.
Hydration is Critical
Often, you won’t even realize you’re dehydrated because thirst, or the lack thereof, isn’t the best indicator of hydration. Generally, you should continuously sip on water throughout the entirety of your routine—you should strive to stop and drink every 10-20 minutes during your workout. The water helps your veins open and transport oxygen to your muscles, allowing you to perform better and longer with less risk of cramps or fatigue.
Improve Your Diet
Exercise and a healthy diet are two halves of a whole for your physical health. If you want to perform better during your routine and see significant results, you’ll need to improve your diet lest you negate all the hard work you put in at the gym. You needn’t necessarily go on an intensive diet but make an effort to eat healthier, so you feel energized and motivated when you go to work out. Empty calories from processed foods don’t nourish your body and can leave you feeling apathetic, fatigued, or even bloated if you’re not careful.
Tailor Your Routine
Another important tip for fitness first-timers is to tailor your routine. Chances are you did some research beforehand to find workout plans beneficial to your goals. However, remember that there isn’t an end-all, be-all routine that you must follow to the letter. If you’re struggling with a workout, try altering it to fit your needs better. As you see results and adapt, you’ll want to continue changing your routine so that you can challenge yourself.
Start Slow at First
Similarly, don’t dive headfirst into an intensive workout routine. If you don’t prepare for that kind of intensity, it’s a good way to burn yourself out quickly and may cause you to give up on fitness entirely. Look for routines best suited towards beginners and work your way up as you improve. This is more effective by challenging you consistently, but it also gives you a goal to reach.