Hello, I want to start my fitness journey but I am a beginner. I don’t know which exercises to start with or how many days I should train. Can anyone suggest a simple routine and tips to stay motivated?
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Hi. I’d suggest having a look through the training plans. There are various plans with varying time commitments so you can choose one that suits. First get a half Monty test done so you have your numbers set right for the workouts, then choose a plan. There are a few ‘exploring SYSTM’ plans which might be a good place to start or perhaps the ‘transition up’ plan which aims to build you up to regular training and includes the half Monty test at the start.
As for motivation, my opinion is that whilst motivation helps, what’s important is discipline. There’s a bit of a misconception that people who stick to training plans, diets or whatever else they are doing are always motivated, with others often saying I wish I had their motivation. The truth is that even the best athletes lack motivation sometimes. I have days when getting out of bed to get a sufferfest session done, all before getting the kids to school and then doing a days work, seems like the last thing I want to do, but despite having no motivation I get it done. I think to myself, who do I want to be, someone who skips workouts, or someone who gets them done and when I look back later am I going to be happy I stayed in bed or glad I got the session done, when it comes to that race I want to perform my best at, will I be annoyed I missed a session. By reframing the question from ‘what do I want to do’ to ‘what do I want to have done and what person do I want to be,’ that keeps me disciplined even when motivation is lacking. I’d suggest reading Atomic Habits for a far more articulate explanation.
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Welcome, zivo!
To add on to the great advice from Sir James, I strongly recommend starting with the mental training plan or adding it to a plan you choose. It’s an easy way to build a routine into your life without feeling overwhelmed.
Perhaps more importantly, it will help you to personally define what you want out of your fitness journey. Your personal goals will shape your plan choices for sure. Have fun!
Have fun!
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Great book! I agree.
The MTP is also a great tool, as well.
Both of these are excellent tips.
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Let me translate @sir_james.p into other words that are the same, but might be more positive sounding. What is important is consistency. A regular pattern of workouts that are not as strenuous is far better than strenuous now and then.
Build up slowly, this is a marathon, not a sprint.
As for motivation: why is it that you want to workout? You need to answer that before you can do the Mental Training Program (that is the first question it will ask you).
Remember - everybody was a beginner at one time.
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Didn’t mean to sound negative. What I should have said is don’t worry if you aren’t always motivated, that’s normal, just to find methods to deal with that. Your point on consistency is a good one.
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Late to this thread! But some great issues being explored. I think the most important thing is to find enjoyment in whatever physical activity you’re engaging in. If you don’t find it fun, you won’t keep doing it. I enjoy the act of going out and doing 5k. I enjoy watching my numbers evolve on the Wahoo. I enjoy being on this particular website and the people who are a part it. The day you stop having fun might be the day you should take a break - which you should NEVER be afraid to do.
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