Just Get Started

Fitness can be a scary thing. The thought of doing something that most consider to be completely out of their comfort zone, will make most of us pause for a moment. Let us assume, for the purposes of this article, that you have decided to start. Where do you begin?

If you do a Google search of “Fitness in Rockford, Illinois,” you will see 912,000 results, the first listed being local gyms. Those should be helpful until you try to figure out which one is the best fit for you. Now, where do you start? And please, do not watch television infomercials or you will make your life even more confusing.

I have been involved in nearly every level of fitness for thirty years. The trouble you are having in deciding what suits you best in starting a fitness program has existed as long as the industry has. Asking questions of others will only confuse you more as they have made a choice for themselves and will defend it passionately. Some people run, some ride bikes, some do Boot Camp, bodybuilding, CrossFit, Zumba, P90X, Insanity, and so many more. If you want testimonials about any given program, be prepared to read a lot. All fitness paradigms have plenty of propaganda to read.

Anything that gives your loved ones a better version of yourself is most definitely worth it.

As a fitness professional, let me help you with your decision. There are a few questions you should ask yourself: What is your purpose for working out? Simply put, do you want to lose weight? Do you want to gain weight? Do you want to build strength and muscle? Do you want to run a road race or do an endurance event, like a triathlon? Do you merely want to get out and feel better in your own skin? What is the purpose for you to start? What is your budget? Do you have one? When is the best time for you to complete your workouts?

Do you see the simple line of reasoning that goes into making this decision? I can assure you there is a plan or a place for whatever you are looking for. If you start one and find a plan that is not for you, fine, make your way down the list.

As a coach and a chiropractor, I can tell you starting a fitness program is one of the best things you can do for yourself. It will also translate into a great model for those you love. Anything that gives your loved definitely worth it.

So here is my advice: just start. Anything! I was told in chiropractic school, “If you are not moving, you are dying.” If I asked you a few questions, you still not be moving.

One question is, should you exercise every day? Yes! Should you do both progressive resistance work, like weight lifting and some cardio endurance training? Yes! Should you have variety in your workouts to keep them interesting? Yes! Should you have a good, supportive community wherever you decide to go? Yes! For right now though, just start!

If you are already in a program, but it is not fulfilling, do something different. It really does not matter what, they all work to some degree. Variety is good! If you love your program, awesome! Do not stop! If you are moving, you are lapping everyone who is sitting on the couch.