Getting Started

    Getting started on an exercise program seems to be such a hard thing for people.  Whether it is finding the time to make it to the gym or finding the motivation to get there getting started is most of the battle.  A great way to get started is to find a friend who is looking to start working out or one who is already into working out.  Making plans to meet your friend at the park, river or a local gym is a great incentive to stay on track.  It is hard to cancel because someone else is depending on you showing up to workout.

    If you are unable to find a friend due to your work schedule or your location maybe you should look into hiring a trainer.  Many clubs offer certified personal trainers to help you to meet your goals however, be cautious! Some gyms advertise they have well educated and trained staff when they do not, I have seen it first hand and it scares the crap out of me.  Make sure you ask questions, ask to see certifications or degrees before accepting any advice from staff members and if these items can not be produced I suggest you take your business somewhere else.  (See my blog on Finding a Personal Trainer, What it takes to be a Personal Trainer, and Gym Gowers BEWARE).  Some personal trainers make a living traveling to you, so you do not have to travel or contracting into clubs in your area.  My company specializes in this type of personal training.  My trainers travel to you so there is not time lost getting to and from the gym, the trainer brings all the equipment you would ever need, and you get ONE on ONE personalized attention for the entire training session!

  Find a Group Training session that interests you.  Some people are groupies, no not the kind that hang around rock stars but class groupies, they just like exercise more in a group.  There are lots of groups out there to join.  You do not need a gym to get a great workout but if you like a variety of group exercise a gym might be your best option.  Also look into your work facility to see if they offer any kind of training in house or reimbursement for the use of a facility outside of work as part of a wellness incentive.  Group Training classes like BOOT CAMPS also exist.  They are great motivation and may kick you into a nice routine of working out!

   The bottom line is we, as fitness professionals realize it is HARD to get started but it is doable and we are out here for you!  Check us out online at www.fittingitin.org and find a program that is right for you!  Our next programming will be Half Marathon Training, are you in for that?  Hit us up...!!!