Fitness Fundamentals #1: Get Your Head Together
When I take on a new client at my studio, my general approach is to assume that they know nothing about fitness science or working out. This may sound harsh and condescending considering that it's probably 1. Not entirely true, and 2. A bit insulting. - of course, it's not meant to sound that way.
The purpose is to "clear the slate" and offer a particular POV to fitness that I've designed and honed over the years. That's not to say that my strategy is the preeminent approach; there are numerous game plans that will put you on the road to better health and well-being. Besides teaching the “nuts and bolts” of physical exercise, my intention is to address any misconceptions and dubious claims regarding unlikely outcomes that are rampant in our industry -- all the while, presenting options and tools that are practical, available and appropriate for the client in the real world.
So Before You Start…
Ok, you are ready to act on your commitment to getting healthy by starting your exercise program. Let's assume you've got a green light from your physician to engage, and he or she has given you a list of “do’s and don'ts” in your fitness activities that will keep you safe. If you're older, more than likely you had or have limitations that need to be addressed before you start. This shouldn’t give you a license (excuse), not to start. Learn to work around these limitations by modifying your program. Seek out professional help if you don’t know how to go about this.
"Don't use physical limitations as an excuse not to exercise. There's always something you can do."
If you're designing a complete program to be optimally fit, these general components should be incorporated:
Cardiovascular conditioning
Strength training
Flexibility, balance, coordination
Rest & Recovery
Proper Nutrition
This outline provides a general framework for how to approach your fitness plan. In a perfect world, we would give due diligence to each component proportionally to achieve optimum results. The reality is: unless you're professional or a Type A personality coming out of the gate, this protocol will take some time to master. So, don't worry. As they say: this is a marathon; not a sprint. It's a lifestyle change. The takeaway here is to just start!
"In the beginning, getting fit requires more mental effort than physical exertion."
Set A Goal
Be careful making this decision. It can be a deal-breaker to yourself if not made wisely and with reason. Understand that the longer you’ve been sedentary and unhealthy, the harder the challenge will be.
So many times, I’ve had to unravel the mindset of the fast-results mentality that's propagated by schucksters in our industry to make a quick buck on unreasonable hopes and falsities. Whether that promise is made through mainstream media commercials or an unscrupulous personal trainer, it usually ends up unfulfilled.
“Getting healthy” takes work and dedication like any other endeavor worth pursuing. It can also change your life profoundly.
My best advice is to be honest and realistic with yourself. You know who you are. You know your tendencies: your shortfalls, your strengths. Play to those positive traits that put you in the best position to succeed; avoid those situations that tempt you into succumbing to failure. For example, if you’re not a “morning person,” don’t schedule early morning workouts!
And lastly, above all else, be consistent. The body responds best to periodic, frequent physical stimulus to affect change. In general, (and I use that term with broad conditions), more is better. I promise, your resolve and your body will toughen as you progress. Then… the sky’s the limit!