Has your doctor told you to become more active and take up some form of exercise? Are you left wondering what type of exercise to do and where to start?

You might have thoughts like:

• I don’t want to look like a fool.
• My body doesn’t look the part.
• I am very uncoordinated or unbalanced.
• I don’t want to do anything that makes me feel uncomfortable.
• I’m not fit enough to start anything new.

All of these thoughts are natural responses, and everyone can identify with at least one. Starting is the hardest part.

Beginners often feel both excited and daunted when taking up a new movement practice.

Where to Start?

Below are a few tips I give when presenting a beginner’s fitness regime.

Find Something You Enjoy Doing

Before you commit to an exercise regime, it’s best to do some research and figure out what you like and don’t like in an exercise plan. Start by listing all the positive and negative traits of plans you tried in the past. Remember, there’s no point in doing something you won’t enjoy.

Exercise Time Can’t Clash with Other Commitments

It’s important to commit to a new fitness regime without it being a burden on your time or trying to squeeze it in around other commitments. Find something that you will fit into your lifestyle.

Plan for Accountability

A friend, buddy, or partner is a great way to keep on schedule and is also fun when sharing the experience. Find a group or someone who uplifts and supports you. If you prefer to go solo, that’s fine too. You can be your own best friend.

How Do I Know What Movement Practice to Start with?

It is difficult to know straight from the beginning what you might like or what fits with your lifestyle. Try a few different types of movement and exercise to determine what suits you best.

• For instance, if you enjoy the outdoors, try different walking tracks or go for a short hike in the hills.
• If you enjoy swimming, try aqua aerobics or lap swimming.
• Try stretching exercises, Pilates, or Yoga.
• Do you like dancing? Take a half hour dancing class.

You don’t need to have all the answers straight away. Take your time to find a movement and exercise plan that’s right for you and fits into your daily routine. That’s the beauty of exercise and fitness; there is no right or wrong way, only your way.

Dealing with Your Inner Ogre, Negative Nelly

I lack confidence. I’ll look ridiculous. I’m too unfit. People will laugh at me.

Confidence comes from stepping off the sideline and taking action. It may feel strange and more than a little awkward or uncomfortable at first. That’s ok.

It doesn’t matter if you have limited fitness or negative self-image problems. Wherever you start from, is the beginning.

Practice being kind to yourself and accept the amazing body you have.

Take baby steps. Sure, you want to get stronger and fitter and see those changes. You will. Baby steps are the building blocks to success.

Accepting where we are right now helps us go the distance for the long term. If we don’t do this we simply won’t start because in our own eyes, we will never be good enough to start. And if we don’t look after ourselves, who will?

If you work through the above tips and guidelines you will find starting and staying consistent in your chosen movement practice simple and effective. If you need some more guidance, you can check out this 7 Day Beginner’s Workout Guide.

Remember, everyone was once a beginner.

What different movement modalities have you tried? What positives and negatives can you share about each? Which ones did you enjoy the most? Is there a specific exercise plan you’d like to try? Please share with our community.