One of the things people ask me all the time is, “I really need to get in shape, WHAT DO I DO????”. I get so excited and there are many things, so many options, so much fun.
There really isn’t one answer to this question, it’s a custom made journey each person has to explore.
As individuals we’re all wired uniquely…genetically, personality, personal preferences, etc. What works for one person, may or may not work for another. I believe variety and enjoyment are key components to any successful workout regimen. I’ve had a lot of friends tell me they run 3-4 times a week, but aren’t losing the extra weight they’re trying to take off. If all you do is one thing, your body will get used to it and plateau. “Muscle confusion” is key to consistently evolving your level of physical fitness, which is why Tony Horton’s P90X program has been so successful. Before you get comfortable and can easily do a workout, they switch it up and you’re doing something else working different muscle groups or similar muscle groups in a different way.
How do you get started on finding an effective workout routine you love? I recommend finding 2-3 types of workouts you like to do. Examples of this could be Pilates/Barre/HIIT training, Crossfit/Running/Yoga, if you love being outdoors with a less structured environment maybe try Biking and Hiking.
Next, I would leave room for a wild card workout! This is something new that looks fun or might be a little scary or unknown to you. Start by doing each workout 1-2 times per week and then add the wildcard workout in every other week. There is studio in NYC called SurfSET which offers surfing inspired workout classes or try a ballet class or a crossfit gymnastics class. These classes might sound a little crazy to a new workout enthusiast, but most studios have classes designed for beginners where the instructors will meet you where you are at.
If you live in a large city ClassPass and FitReserve are great options. There's a month membership—and you get unlimited classes at hundreds of studios. The catch is, you have a limited number of classes at each studio. However, that won’t matter if you are changing things up!
If you like to workout at home, Daily Burn offers a free trail membership, Quinectic has free live streaming workouts, and Jessica Smith TV is another great option. For gym goers (or if you work with a personal trainer), pick up a class schedule and pepper your week with a few different classes. If you don’t like one class, try another! It’s kind of like dating—sometimes it takes a while to find what you love! ;)
Be patient and don’t give up. Keep an open mind, try new things, don’t be afraid to challenge yourself, and most importantly, HAVE FUN!!!