How to Start a Fitness Lifestyle: A Beginner's Guide

Hi there!

If you're reading this, it means you're ready to take control of your health and embark on an incredible fitness journey. You've come to the right place, and I'm here to guide you every step of the way.

Before we dive into the hows and whats of your fitness journey, let me share a little about my personal experience. I've always had a love/hate relationship with my body, constantly bombarded by other people's opinions about how I should look. As a model, the pressure to conform to a certain body image is even more intense. I've spent years battling with myself, trying to fit into a specific mould.

My own fitness journey began in 2015. For years, I struggled with fluctuating weight, never truly finding balance. However, through it all, I've come to understand that fitness isn't solely about reaching a particular weight or size. That should never be your ultimate goal.

Before we begin, it's crucial to grasp that fitness is a lifestyle—a path to a holistic and healthy life. It's about waking up each day, from this moment until your last, and cherishing and celebrating your body.

Starting any fitness journey can be overwhelming, but by making the decision to live a healthier life, you've already taken the first step. If you're unsure about how to begin, these simple tips will help kickstart your fitness journey and set you on the path to success.

Write down your goal and why you want to achieve them:

The first step is clarity. Write down your specific goals and the reasons why you want to achieve them. This will provide you with a constant reminder and source of motivation when you feel lost or discouraged. Consider putting your goals on your study desk or setting them as your wallpaper to keep your purpose in sight.

Start Small:

Make your goals realistic and enjoyable. Setting unrealistic expectations can make you feel like you're falling behind, even when you're not. The secret to consistency is finding activities you genuinely enjoy. Start small and gradually build up to your ultimate goal. Every day, find pleasure in your fitness activities.

Set Time and Space for Your Practice:

This is crucial. Starting a new habit can be overwhelming, so it's important to create a dedicated time and space for your practice. Choose a time of day when you have minimal distractions, such as early mornings to kickstart your day or after work hours. Additionally, set aside a specific area for your workouts to help you get into the right mindset.

Plan Your Practice for 30 Days:

Based on your goals, plan your practice for the next 30 days. Whether it's running, strength training, yoga, pilates, or any other activity, create a structured plan. After 30 days, reassess and make a new plan for the following 30 days. This eliminates guesswork and allows you to focus solely on following your plan. If you're a beginner, consider following online programs from trusted trainers. Some of my personal favourites are Heather Robertson and Caroline Girvan.

Just Do It:

When it comes to practice, remember that "better done than perfect." Perfectionism can hinder the formation of habits. Instead of aiming for perfection, prioritise consistency. Utilise a habit tracker to help you stay on track. There will be days when motivation is lacking, but in those moments, reflect on the first step—your WHY—and push through. Embrace the process and enjoy every step along the way.

I sincerely hope these tips help you achieve your fitness goals and make your journey more enjoyable. Remember, this is just the beginning of an incredible transformation. Embrace the opportunity to become the best version of yourself.