It’s that time of the year again—you’re feeling inspired to take your health and fitness seriously. Maybe because it’s the new year resolution season, or you’ve just decided that this is the perfect time to focus on yourself. Whatever the case, we’re here for it. But here’s the thing: starting a fitness journey doesn’t have to mean diving headfirst into grueling workouts that leave you burnt out and ready to quit.
If you’re wondering how to start your fitness journey, especially from the comfort of your home, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to start your fitness journey for beginners in a way that’s simple, sustainable, and tailored to your pace. Let’s help you build habits that stick, without stress.
Why should I exercise often?
Before we get into the how, let’s talk about why. Regular exercise has incredible benefits for both your body and mind:
- Exercise improves physical health: Exercise strengthens your heart, improves lung function, and helps you maintain a healthy weight. It also reduces the risk of conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke.
- Exercise boosts mental health: If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, exercise can help. It releases endorphins—those feel-good hormones that improve your mood and reduce anxiety and depression.
- Exercise increases energy levels: Ironically, expending energy through exercise actually makes you feel more energized throughout the day. Say goodbye to that midday slump.
- Exercise improves sleep: Regular physical activity can help you sleep better and wake up refreshed.
- Exercise strengthens muscles and bones: Whether it’s carrying groceries or playing with the kids, a stronger body makes daily life easier.
Types of exercise to include in your routine for fitness at home
If you’re new to exercise, you might be wondering what kinds of workouts you should do. Here are the main types of exercises to consider:
- Cardiovascular (Cardio): These exercises get your heart pumping and improve your stamina. Examples include dancing, skipping, jogging in place, or following a YouTube cardio workout.
- Strength training: This involves exercises that build and tone your muscles, such as push-ups, squats, or resistance band workouts. If you don’t weights at home, it’s fine; your body weight is also effective.
- Flexibility and mobility: Stretching or yoga exercises help improve flexibility, prevent injury, and keep your joints healthy.
- Balance exercises: Especially important as you get older, balance-focused activities (like standing on one leg or practicing yoga poses) help prevent falls and improve coordination.
For a balanced routine, try to mix these exercise types throughout your week.
Must-haves for your at-home fitness journey
You don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership to start your fitness journey at home. Here are some essentials to consider:
- Comfortable workout clothes: Wear something breathable and stretchy to stay comfortable while you move.
- Exercise mat: This is great for yoga, stretching, and bodyweight exercises.
- Water bottle: Hydration is super important during any workout.
- Resistance bands or light weights: These are affordable and versatile tools for strength training.
- Good shoes: A quality pair of sneakers provides the support you need for any high-impact activity.
- A timer or fitness app: This will help you track your workouts and stay consistent.
How to start your fitness journey at home
Before jumping into any fitness program, it’s important to make sure you’re physically ready. Here’s how:
- Get a health check-up: This is a non-negotiable. Visit a clinic or speak to a doctor to assess your overall health and identify any limitations. This is where we come in, we’ve got you covered with affordable consultations. All you have to do is text us on Whatsapp here.
- Set realistic goals: Whether it’s losing weight, gaining muscle, or improving stamina, know what you want to achieve so you can track progress effectively.
- Listen to your body: Understand your starting point and don’t push yourself too hard too soon. It’s okay to start small and build your way up.
10 major tips for beginners starting out their workout journey at home
Starting your fitness journey at home is exciting, but it comes with its challenges. Here are 10 tips to help you succeed:
- Start small: Start with short workouts of 10-15 minutes. Over time, you can gradually increase the duration and intensity as your stamina improves. The key is to avoid burnout.
- Set a schedule: Decide on specific days and times for your workouts and treat them like important appointments. This routine helps you stay disciplined and consistent.
- Warm up and cool down: Always start with a warm-up to loosen your muscles and prevent injury. End with a cool-down to help your body recover and reduce post-workout soreness.
- Create a dedicated workout space: Even if it’s just a small corner in your room, having a set space for exercise helps you focus and stay motivated.
- Follow guided workouts: Leverage fitness apps, YouTube videos, or online trainers to guide you through effective routines. This ensures you’re using proper techniques and staying engaged.
- Stay consistent: Remember, consistency matters more than perfection. Even if you can only manage a 5-minute stretch on a busy day, it’s better than skipping the entire day.
- Track your progress: Use a fitness journal or app to log your workouts. Celebrate small wins, like completing a full week of workouts or holding a plank for longer.
- Stay hydrated and eat well: Your body needs proper fuel to perform and recover. Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals that include proteins, carbs, and healthy fats.
- Take rest days: Your body needs time to repair and grow stronger. Add at least one or two weekly rest days to prevent fatigue and injury.
- Have fun!: Choose exercises you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, yoga, or skipping. When you have fun, fitness becomes something to look forward to rather than a chore.
Starting your fitness journey at home is one of the best decisions you can make for your health and well-being. Whether you’re just figuring out how to start your fitness journey at home or already easing into it, we’re here to help every step of the way.
From supplements to keep you energized, gym access for as little as ₦5,000, consultations for any concerns, and the gear you need to crush your goals, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to begin? Just text us on WhatsApp to get started.
