Do your research upfront - Not all training is great training and there's a lot of bad information out there. Make sure that you are choosing reliable resources for your information and make sure you pick an approach that trains the body comprehensively, in a way that is balanced, and focused on good health.
Pace yourself, and start slowly if you need to - A very common mistake we see beginners make is being way too aggressive in their training, way too soon. Take time to build a strong base for yourself; if you go 110% right out of the gate, you're likely to end up hurting yourself or burning yourself out on a commitment that needs to be lifelong. Getting fit takes time and hard work - try to become comfortable with that concept; tell yourself that you're in this for the long haul and so there is no reason to rush along your training in a way that puts your health or new good habits at risk.
Make it work for you - Similar to the point above, you have to realize that this is YOUR journey. It doesn't matter how fit someone else is, or where you think you should be, you have to be willing to start where your body needs you to start, and make modifications as you need to so that nothing ends up being a roadblock to progress. Come across an exercise interval that's too hard? Jog in place until it's over. Really struggling and need a break even though the interval is not over? Take a couple seconds to rest & recoup before you push yourself again. Don't be afraid to work hard, but also know that's it's your responsibility to make it work for you.
Commit - There will be good days and bad, setbacks and successes, but you have to commit to showing up and working hard. You won't always feel like it, and it's okay to miss workouts occasionally, but for the most part, you want to focus on building & sticking to the habit.
Keep self talk positive - There's no reason to talk down about yourself, no matter how unfit you might be. There is no shame in any starting place. In short; don't say anything to yourself that you wouldn't say to your best friend.
Keep goals positive & action focused - Instead of "I will lose 10 lbs", say "I will workout for 30 minutes 4 times a week". Instead of "I will tone my flabby arms" say "I will gain strength and be able to lift things that I couldn't before". Try to focus less on end result, and more on the actions that you are responsible for (that will likely ultimately lead you to your goal more effectively, anyways).
Don't be afraid to push yourself, but listen to your body - Sweating, feeling out of breath, burning muscles - all of these things can be part of a great workout. It's important to learn to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, but there are also some things that you shouldn't just push through (real pain, chest pain inability to catch breath, etc). Stay tuned in during your workouts to walk the line between challenging yourself, and respecting the messages that your body is sending you.
Don't make yourself hate exercise - There are so many different types of training and so many variables that one can adjust to their liking; find something that you enjoy, that makes you feel good. You don't have to spend hours in the gym, you don't even need a gym membership! You don't need fancy equipment or supplements, you just need smart workouts, good nutrition, and motivation.
Keep an eye on nutrition - Nutrition is just as important as exercise, and the two really benefit one another. Focus on eating a diet that is as fresh and nutrient dense as possible, avoiding fad diets and processed food as much as possible.
And remember that any effort you put towards your health is always worth it!
Committed to Your Health and Success,
Coach Eddie Akan
Studio Manager
Premier Boxing for Fitness
510 Wisconsin St.
South Houston, TX 77587
Studio Number: 713-794-6454
www.premierboxingforfitness.com
coacheddie@premierboxingforfitness.com
