I ran across this graphic the other day, and thought it had some great tips for those trying to get started adding more movement and exercise into their life! I’m not sure where I found this graphic, but I did not create it.
1. You’re not always going to feel like it.
Even those people who have made movement and exercise a habit in their life don’t always “feel” like doing it! What happens though is when you create a habit of movement in your life, the benefits outweigh the not doing it. The more you do it, the more your body remembers how good it feels when you’re moving on a regular basis.
It’s really easy when life gets hectic and stressful to let movement and exercise be the first thing you don’t do. Even when you would probably feel better mentally and physically if you did something. So often you need to make yourself move, or at least get started moving!!
TIP: Make a commitment to do something on a regular basis. Try not to fall into the all or nothing frame of mind. Something is always better than nothing. There is always something you can do where ever you are and however much time you have. Don’t limit yourself to “exercise time” to add movement in. Little bits of movement often seem more doable. And they are often more effective than an hour workout because you are more likely to do them! This doesn’t mean you should throw your regular exercise time out the window. Maybe start trying to think about movement as something that’s incorporated into your life instead of something you start or stop.
2. Pay a professional to guide you.
There are so many reasons to hire a professional movement instructor to guide you, but here are my top three. First, is that you don’t want to get injured. A qualified instructor is going to tailor workouts specifically to your body, to your level and keep you safe. Second, a great instructor will teach you in a way that fits your personality and learning style. You will feel successful and enjoy the process (exercise does not need to be miserable!). Third, you will be accountable to your instructor. Trying to workout by yourself can be a challenge. Having a trusted instructor with scheduled session times will help keep you committed (especially on those days when you don’t really feel like it!).
3. Set realistic targets using a proven method.
Pilates is my method of choice as a movement instructor, but there are a lot of great movement programs that can help you get results. The Pilates method is a whole body movement system designed to create balance in the body through a safe, progression of exercises. It utilizes both your own body and a variety of spring based equipment designed to support and assist the body in achieving its goals. The Pilates Method is adaptable to any body, level, or condition, and can be especially great for those who haven’t been active or maybe have some injuries or things going on that might limit their movement ranges.
4. Find a way to have a worthy but consistent approach to fitness.
Find something that works for you and stick with it! Movement and exercise programs are not a one size fits all! Most people journey through lots of different things before they find the combination of movement that works for them. Keep trying until you find something you enjoy that makes you feel better in your body!
