How to Start a Successful Fitness Program is going to be a series of 5 parts. All will be extremely simple and very achievable. If you’re looking for a solution to your fitness woes, hang in there. I want to help show you the light.
Part I: Write Down Your Excuses First
“I want to get fit but I don’t want to change my lifestyle.”
Sound familiar?
I hear it all the time.
My best advice for a work-around is to first, start off by writing down all the specific obstacles keeping you from becoming the fit healthy you of your dreams.
Examples:
I have too many mouths to feed and children to drop off at schools in the morning to leave any time for a workout.
I hurt my back 3 years ago and can’t lift anything heavy.
I travel 6 months of the year for work.
Etc. …
Second, look over your list and narrow it down to the 3 most limiting factors contributing to why you can’t or don’t have time for a fitness program.
Exposing your excuses on paper puts you one step closer to finding a solution.
Here’s a little motivation via some awesome quotes:
If you want a personal daily account for motivation, check out my Paleo Challenge page. Through travel, illness, and inconvenience, I WILL complete this challenge.
…and I’ll do it with a smile on my face 🙂
Hi Cassy! Bryan’s cousin Autumn here…considering Paleo…any beginner guides on the internet you would suggest? Beginner – and I mean haven’t seriously exercised in like six years – exercise or running guides? Any tips appreciated! xxA
Hi Autumn! It was so great to meet you this past weekend. How exciting that you’re thinking about paleo! It’s a lifestyle that I recommend entering in with baby steps. The diet only includes vegetables, fruits, meats, and nuts (in that order by amount). This means it excludes grains, dairy, and processed sugars (inc. artificial sugars). Eliminate one thing at a time. If you’re a soda drinker, eliminate those first and replace with water and unsweetened tea. If you’re a cheese lover, try cutting out the cheese first. Eventually work your way until you’re eating only paleo foods. Robb Wolf, Mark’s Daily Apple, and Everyday Paleo all have great resources. There are all kinds of paleo-friendly recipes out there you can occupy yourself with to curb any cravings that will come up. As far as exercise or running tips, I would recommend you start a dedicated walking regimen. Start walking 10 minutes a day, then 20, then 40, etc. Eventually incorporate light jogging. I’m a huge proponent for the benefits of including weight lifting into your workout routine. Keep in mind, you don’t have to be fit to start programs like CrossFit, yoga, or sign up for a run event. There are some great “Couch to 5K” programs out there you can use as a reference guide. I’m also a big proponent for yoga and other forms of stretch-focused workouts. Lengthening your muscles while you strengthen them will accelerate your progress and aid in recovery. I hope this is helpful and remember I’m always available for more. Wish you ALL the best and I can’t wait to hear an update! XO, Cassy