Getting Started When You Are New To Exercise

Last time I spoke a little to doing what makes you happy when you set out to exercise.  But there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. While I never want to diminish anyone's enthusiasm, I do want to caution those who might have a tendency to "over-do-it" in the beginning.  

When starting most new things it is a necessary tightrope walk between maintaining enthusiasm and maintaining control.  Have you ever heard a friend say, "I've tried and I just can't run!" or " Well, I can run for about a minute but that's it and I'm completely beat."  It's a perfect example of stellar enthusiasm and a not so productive loss in control.  For many individuals this happens because they have not been  taught how to control their pace and they are literally going at it as fast and hard as they can.  I give these friends an A+ for effort  and a little tip for the future--- s.l.o.w. down and enjoy your journey! 

A pretty good way to find your pace when you are not used to running is by taking the first day out as a walk.  Not a comfortable stroll but a brisk walk.  A walk that makes you re-think just how "easy" walking is.  Walk for 20-30 minutes, break a sweat, go home and have a nourishing meal and plenty of water.  If you feel a bit sore the next day, take another walk (you can go a bit easier on yourself).  Do what you can in terms of duration (still aiming for 20-30min) and keep up the routine all week long allowing your self a day of rest every 2 or 3 days (if you are walking hard enough that you have some soreness).  If you're not sore at all keep it going 6 days a week until you're in a good routine.

By starting out slow, giving your body time to heal and rejuvenate between exercise sessions you will set yourself up for success at a long term, feel good exercise routine.

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