So you've taken the first step and made the decision to start working out. Good on you! But now what?

With so many exercise options available to us, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which type of exercise is best for you. It's important to remember that there is no 'one size fits all' option when it comes to exercising. What works for one person may not work for another. They key is to find something you can commit to day-in day-out, as we all know health and fitness is a long term game!

4 things to consider when choosing an exercise plan

1. What are your motives?

The most important question of them all... what are your goals? You need to think about what motivated you to begin exercising in the first place and let that guide you towards your exercise plan. If you set out on your fitness journey with the ambitions to grow big and strong, you don't want to be running track 5 days a week.  Just like if you're goal is to become more flexible, lifting weights is only going to tighten your muscle, not expand it, so you're better off opting for some yoga or pilates. 

Your exercise plan needs to be based around your desired destination, otherwise you'll never make it there!

2. What exercise do you enjoy?

Exercise shouldn't feel like a chore. It should be a part of your day that you look forward to, which is why it's so important to find an exercise regime that is not only challenging but enjoyable. 

For some people this might mean mixing up your training between a variety of group classes or training techniques. For others, your evening run or morning HIIT session could be enough to keep you happy, fit and healthy. Either way, its important to choose exercise you actually like doing, otherwise, you're just going to end up finding an excuse to avoid it.

3. Does it fit your lifestyle?

If you're on the move 24/7, with barely even enough time to breath, then you probaaably don't want to go for a training program that requires you to work out for a minimum of 1 hour per day, 5-6 days a week. 

You're exercise plan needs to fit around your lifestyle. Only got a spare 45 minutes in the morning ? Great, head to the gym and smash out that weights class. More of a night owl? Don't sweat it. Enjoy your fav home workout once everyone's headed to bed.

The key is figure out when you actually have the time to exercise, and to make make a commitment to that time slot each day.

4. Do you have all you need to succeed?

Now that the wheels are in motion it's time to start organising all the finer details. A good place to start, deciding how you'll get access to all the equipment you need. 

If you've signed up to a local gym, are attending group classes or get your daily dose of activity from the local sporting club, its a pretty safe bet they'll have the equipment you need to succeed. However, for those of us who prefer to workout in our own space, you might consider investing in your own equipment or home gym. 

It's also important to think about whether you prefer to work out alone or with others. If you can't find the motivation to get yourself to gym, try asking a friend. Having someone we feel accountable too is a great way to stay committed to our goals. Or, if you find your training buddy distracting, it might be time to give them the slip!

Once you have the answers to the above questions you'll have the tools you need to embark on your health and fitness journey! For any further tips and tricks, reach out to our friendly team!