"I've
never really worked out before and I want to start, but where do I begin?I can't afford a gym membership, much less a
trainer. I wouldn't even know where to begin with exercising on my own at home.
It all seems so overwhelming! Help!" This are all too common complaints.
Sometimes starting something new seems like so much effort that we give up
before we even begin. Well, there are resources for you to ease into your new
workout regime. Fitness is within your reach! No need to feel discouraged!
Search It There
is an infinite amount of information available online, including downloadable
workout routines and online personal trainers, such as exercise.about.com,
videofitness.com, exercisetv.tv, fitsugar.com, fitnessonline.com,
askthetrainer.com, myfit.com and freetrainers.com. Certainly do not begin any
fitness regime without first doing your research to avoid injury.
Workout DVDs
& Videos Fitness
DVDs, videos and books are great for showing form and explaining the exercises
in detail. The fitness level should be noted as to beginner, intermediate or
advanced. There are DVDs, videos and books available for any sport or fitness
activity imaginable. These are best resourced online, like at Amazon.com, or at
a larger bookstore, like Barnes & Noble.
Magazines & Books Fitness
Magazines are an excellent resource for detailed exercise routines, including
cardio and weight training for all levels. Many will include photos of each
exercise being performed. There is a wide variety of fitness magazines
available at your local grocery, drug and book stores. Quite a few also have
online versions available.
Gyms Gyms
can be an option you thought unattainable due to cost, but you may be
surprised. Many gyms frequently run membership specials and may also be willing
to work out a deal you can afford. Don't be afraid to ask!Also, gyms normally have trial memberships
available, good for a week or more of unlimited visits. This is great to see if
the gym is a good fit for you, as well as to gain some free advice. Gyms will
have professionals available to teach you how to properly use the equipment.
They can also recommend what classes are good for beginners. Again, don't be
afraid to ask -- that's why they are there!
Advice Anyone? Ask
for friend's advice who have bodies you admire what they do for exercise. They'll
be flattered you asked and may even help you get started.
What to Wear You
will need a pair of sneakers suitable for your activity of choice. A
cross-trainer is a good alternative if you plan to do a variety of activities
and only want to invest in one pair. Check with your local sporting goods store
for knowledgeable advice as to what type of shoe is best for you. You'll want
to wear form-fitting workout clothes suitable for your workout of choice. Baggy
clothes may seam comfortable, but don't move with us and thus are restrictive
during exercise.
Start Walking Start
with something simple and accessible, like walking. When you are comfortable
with walking at a steady pace, increase your pace or add hills to your route.
Soon you'll be checking out other activities to increase the variety of your
workouts. If you would like to invest in one piece of cardio equipment for the
home, a treadmill is an excellent choice. Treadmill walking is excellent
exercise, can be done by people of all ages and fitness levels and is a great
when the weather is undesirable for outdoor walking. There are many walking
DVDs and videos available to enhance your treadmill experience, like Scenic Trex Beachside Jungle and
Rainforest.
No Equipment
Necessary Many
abdominal and weight training exercises can be done without any equipment, just
by using your own body weight, like crunches, push-ups and lunges. Try
searching online for "resistance training without equipment". Also check
fitness videos, magazines or books for an abundance of information regarding these types
of exercises. To get started with in-home weight training using equipment,
without investing a lot of money or space, try light hand weights, fitness
tubing or bands. To avoid injury, do not try any of these exercises without
consulting one of the resources listed above.
You're Ready! Once
you have done your research and realize all the resources available to the
fitness beginner, you can begin your workouts safely and have fun adding new activities
to your day!You soon won't be able to
imagine your life without exercise!
Copyright 2008 Scenic Trex. All rights reserved. Produced, packaged and printed in USA. Please consult your physican before beginning this or any exercise program.