If you are here reading this article, you probably want to start prioritising your health and fitness, but don’t know where to start. With so many options out there, and everyone you talk to giving you a different opinion, it is no wonder you will be confused.
Here are 5 common questions people ask when planning to start on their fitness journey.
1. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WORK OUT?
We recommend people to resistance train at least 3-4 times a week. Resistance training can come in different forms, but the focus is on having an external load to tax your body. With that said, we have had people who train 5 or even 6 times a week with success. What is important is not just the frequency of your workouts, but the quality and intensity of your workouts, and whether you are recovering adequately in relation to your training.
2. WHAT KIND OF EXERCISES SHOULD I DO?
CrossFit, Spin Class, Yoga, HIIT, Running. These are just some of the types of workouts that might pop into your head when thinking what you should do, and trying to choose the one that best fits you and your goals. And I can tell you the best workout of all this is “it depends”. “It depends” because just like everyone has a different favourite food, the type of workout you enjoy really is individual. All types of workout have its advantages, and one way is to choose the one that would best help you achieve your goals. For example, you would probably not choose running or spin class if your goal is to build some lean muscle and get stronger, and you would not choose yoga if you were trying to lose fat. Not say that these options aren’t good, they just are not the best choice for your specific needs. Many gyms offer trials and passes, so take advantage of these low cost options to try and see if it works for you. All in all, what you need is something that you will commit too, and remember to follow a well structured program that will help you achieve your goals much faster and more efficiently than doing random workouts throughout the week.
3. CAN I MIX IT UP & ATTEMPT DIFFERENT TYPES OF WORKOUTS WITHIN THE WEEK?
If you are exercising solely for your health and have no specific goals yet, then sure that works. Apps like ClassPass are great for trying out multiple types of workout at an affordable price. However, we tell people that once you have found what you like to do, sign with that gym or studio, firstly to support them just as they support you with their coaching, and secondly, without focusing on a specific type training, you will not be able to progress fully and achieve your potential.
4. CAN I EXERCISE AT HOME OR MUST I GO TO A GYM/STUDIO?
Both ways have their benefits and drawbacks. Working out at home may be the more convenient and cost effective option, but it also can be laden with distractions, and you might realise that you require more and more equipment that your house might not have space for. A commercial gym membership might be more expensive, depending on their membership, but they have an abundance of equipment available for you to use. However, during peak hours, there might be waiting around for equipment which might be the best use of your time. Guided classes are a great option too, as they are helmed by a coach who does the thinking for you. They can also give you some needed motivation, some help with your technique, as well as teach you what you might not know.
We believe that the help of a coach is especially important at the start as they can help perfect your basics, as well as prevent injuries that might derail your progress. The importance of a good coach cannot be understated.
5. IS IT ALRIGHT TO TAKE AN EXTRA REST DAY?
Of course it is. Even if a plan says it recommends you to complete 5 days of workouts in a week, it does not take into account your schedule, your training age and where you are physically at that moment. It is as important to listen to your body as it is to follow a plan. With that said, you also must be honest with yourself, because the line between needing an unplanned rest day compared to just being lazy is a fine one, and one that could derail your hard work if you aren’t careful.
Here at CrossFit Unit, we have helped many people start their fitness journey successfully. You may say we are biased, but our goal with this article is to give you a good starting out platform to put your best foot forward to crush your goals, regardless of where you go to do it. So wherever and however you choose to start your fitness journey, just don’t procrastinate and start today! Fitness is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy the process, find what you enjoy and try and get better at it. If you are even a little better than yesterday, then we will say you are on the right track.
TRAIN WITH US!