Oftentimes getting started is the most difficult part of a new fitness routine.

The concept of an active lifestyle can seem appealing at first, but it can also be overwhelming if you are out of shape.

You may feel conflicted. You may feel self-conscious and even a little defeated. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and move forward. If you refuse to explore your own thoughts and feelings, you might find it even more difficult to reach your goals.

If you are struggling to turn your motivation into action, these tips can help you to let go of your worries and start exercising.

Don’t believe in your excuses

The first and most important rule of your fitness journey is to acknowledge that your brain is likely to make up excuses to delay fitness. All the promises of starting tomorrow and postponing are not a sign of laziness. But don’t believe your reasons. Instead, understand why you are using them.

When your mind is making excuses and you need to push through, find an alternative approach. Maybe you dedicate your efforts to someone else. By shifting your mindset, you can move past your fear of failing. Be willing to dive in and explore your own excuses in order to better understand what’s been holding you back from getting started, and from reaching your goals. Journaling and talking to a friend about your experience can be helpful ways to reflect.

Release any fear of the unknown

If you haven’t exercised in a while, it’s normal to feel a little worried about trying out a new routine. You may not be sure how to approach your fitness program. But don’t let your hesitation distract you from your goal. Instead, utilize all of the resources available to you and find a place where you can ask all the questions about exercising that have been bothering you. From simple things such as finding the perfect workout playlists to discovering the most effective leg moves, you can find a reassuring answer.

Weakness or perceived weakness can push you to delay workouts

When you start a new fitness routine, you won’t be in top form.

It’s fair to expect some strength limitations as you begin. Acknowledge this, and don’t let it stop you.

Carry on at your own pace. Your body will gradually become stronger and more fit, and you’ll soon be able to do new exercises you might not have believed you could do. The key is to listen to your body and find a pace that works for you.

Notice when you’re comparing yourself to others

When you’re at the gym or in a fitness class, it can be tempting to compare yourself to others around you. “Everyone seems so much stronger than I do.” If you find that thought popping up, recognize it and then do your best to let it go. Perhaps those around you are stronger than you are, right now. Remember, though, it doesn’t help you to compare your journey to someone else’s.

You are at the start of your fitness adventure.

This path is yours.

It will be different than anyone else’s. Plus, surrounding yourself with strong people will motivate you to rise to the occasion and build more strength.

Focus on your own performance. Focus on your own goals.

Compare yourself to yourself only, day after day, and you will observe your progress.

Your mind can be your worst enemy if you don’t know how to notice and control your thought patterns. At the start of your fitness journey, your brain may respond to your inner fears by creating excuses to postpone working out. You may find yourself focusing on others instead of focusing inward.

Practice shifting your focus, and you will reach new levels of success with your workout routine.

Photo (1) by Meghan Holmes on Unsplash; photo (2) by i yunmai on Unsplash; photo (3) by Victor Freitas on Unsplash.

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