Guide to Getting Started on a Fitness Routine

How Do I Begin My Fitness Journey?

Thinking about starting a fitness routine? Or even just getting back into some sort of exercise program and don’t know where to start? It can be overwhelming thinking about how to fit time in your busy schedule to get back to the gym. It is easy to say “I will start next week” and a year later you are still sitting on the couch. The high stress of work, family and just every day expenses can take a toll on your body which is why it is so important to get back on a healthy workout routine. Stop procrastinating and get moving. Here are some ways to help get you started.

Pick a Time

Even with a crazy schedule there is usually some time to get a workout in. Pick out a time like first thing in the morning and, if it works for your schedule, get up earlier to get it in and out before the large crowds form. For some people it is a great way to start the day. Or if you aren’t a morning person, go on your lunch break. Use the time you have available to get some exercise in before heading back to the office. Or if you just had no time to get out, you can always go after work with a little motivation.

The important thing is finding a time that works with your schedule and that you can realistically repeat. A workout does not have to take an hour for it to count.

Set a Schedule

Most people thrive on routine. Plan a workout schedule that makes sense to you. While it may be tempting to go every day for the first week, doing too much too soon can make a new routine difficult to maintain. Start slow and, for example, pick 2-3 days per week to go. Decide that every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday you will get some sort of exercise in even if that starts with just walking around the neighborhood.

It will take some adjustment to get used to the new schedule but no matter what time you go, establish a balanced routine and stick with it. There is no universal number of days it takes to form an exercise habit, so focus on building a routine that you can continue consistently.

Choosing The Right Location For Your Fitness Routine

Location, Location…

The gym can be a convenient place to go and have plenty of options for working out. Not to mention, seeing other people push hard through their routine can be motivating. But the gym is not the only place you can go. One of the simplest things to do which doesn’t cost a dime is get outside and walk or run. Or head to a park and do some pull-ups and push-ups if those exercises are appropriate for your current fitness level. Not comfortable at the gym? Try working out in the privacy of your own home.

Keep Yourself Accountable

Get a Personal Trainer. If you need extra motivation, an appropriately qualified personal trainer can at least get you started on the right track. Not only can having an appointment help get you to the gym, but a trainer can help establish an exercise program appropriate for your goals and experience.

Don’t have the extra cash for a trainer? Grab a workout buddy and help keep each other accountable. Set a time to walk or run with them in the morning. Or plan to take a Group Exercise class together. You can help push each other along the way and keep each other company.

Want to keep track of your progress? Tracking your activity can be a great motivator and can help you set goals as your training progresses. The important part is choosing a method that helps you stay consistent rather than getting caught up in every number.

Fitness Equipment for Building Your Routine

Once you have established a balanced and consistent routine, you may be interested in advancing your training. Whether you want to add cardio equipment, strength equipment or free weights to a home workout space, choose equipment that fits the type of exercise you actually plan to do.

A treadmill can provide a convenient option for walking and running indoors. Dumbbells can be used for a wide range of resistance exercises, while an adjustable workout bench can expand the exercises available in a home strength-training setup.

If your routine progresses into barbell training, you can also compare Olympic weightlifting bars and weight plates. For a dedicated home or garage training area, rolled rubber gym flooring is another category to consider according to the equipment, subfloor and intended training environment.

Recommended Fitness Products and Categories

You don’t need to buy an entire gym just to start exercising. Begin with the routine first, then add equipment that supports the way you actually train. Here are several relevant options and categories to consider:

• Spirit Fitness CT900 Commercial Treadmill – A treadmill option for buyers who want dedicated indoor walking or running equipment.
• IRON COMPANY Urethane Hex Dumbbells – A dumbbell option for building a resistance-training setup with individual free weights.
• Body-Solid Pro Clubline Flat-to-Incline Weight Bench – An adjustable bench option for a home or facility strength-training area.

For more choices, browse treadmills, dumbbells, weight benches, Olympic weightlifting bars, weight plates and rolled rubber gym flooring according to your training goals and available space.

Get started today! Contact an IRON COMPANY representative by phone at (888) 758-7527 or email [email protected].

About the Author: IRON COMPANY Editorial Team

The IRON COMPANY Editorial Team creates and maintains buyer-focused content for gym equipment, gym flooring, cardio equipment, strength training equipment, free weights, and related fitness facility solutions. Our content is developed to help residential, commercial, government, military, school, institutional, and facility buyers compare products, understand key specifications, avoid common buying mistakes, and make more informed purchasing decisions. When appropriate, content is reviewed against manufacturer information, product specifications, IRON COMPANY category knowledge, and current purchasing considerations before publication.