Since childhood, I have always been someone who loves to be active. I raced skis through the snowy New England winters, played tennis throughout college, and spent as much time outdoors as possible. But as I approached my 30s, I realized that learning how to start working out in a supportive and sustainable way meant more than just staying active. It’s about developing a deeper connection with your body and mind. Additionally, I am training for the Chicago Marathon in October. Although running is the mainstay of my daily routine, strength training, yoga, walking, and hiking have all become essential habits for me to feel strong, balanced, and conditioned.
Building a supportive and sustainable workout routine is about more than just staying active. It’s about developing a deeper connection with your body and mind.
If you’ve ever wondered how to start your workout, you’re not alone. For many people, the hardest part is simply getting started. But this is the truth. Finding a workout routine that works for you isn’t about being perfect or following someone else’s plan. It’s about discovering what makes you feel good and the benefits (physical, mental, and emotional). Here are five tips that have helped me turn exercise into a ritual I look forward to. Then you can too.
Featured image from Michelle Nash’s interview with Megan Roop.
1. Start small and set realistic goals
One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting a workout routine is setting goals that are too ambitious. If you haven’t worked out in months (or years), deciding to go to the gym six days a week or run 10K right away can lead to burnout, or worse, injury. Instead, start small. Try to move your body at least three times a week, even if it’s just a 20-minute walk around your neighborhood. (Let’s be honest, walking is the most underrated workout. most effective.) This approach works because it builds confidence and consistency. Achieving these small goals will improve your abilities and motivate you to push yourself further.
Make it happen: Take a few minutes at the beginning of each week to plan when and how you’ll exercise. Add it to your calendar like any other important event. By keeping your initial goals manageable, you’ll set yourself up for success and make working out a sustainable habit.
2. Find a movement that you really enjoy
Let’s be honest: If you’re dreading every moment of your training, you won’t be able to continue. (The best workouts are the ones you actually do, right?) The secret to creating a consistent workout routine is finding activities you truly enjoy. Whether it’s dancing, hiking, swimming, or a Pilates class, physical activity should feel like a celebration, not a chore.
Make it happen: Try different types of exercise to find what lights you up. Many studios offer free trials or discounted introductory classes, so you can explore your options without making a decision right away. When you find something you like, it doesn’t feel like a workout, it feels like something you look forward to doing.
3. Make it a ritual, not a task.
The mindset you bring to your workouts makes a huge difference. Instead of treating exercise as your own, have Frame it as a ritual that nourishes your body and mind. This could mean starting your day with a yoga flow to set your mood or going for a walk to relax after work.
Make it happen: Creating rituals around your workouts will help you stick them into your routine. Light a candle, play your favorite playlist before your home workout, and enjoy a delicious smoothie after your workout. When exercise becomes an important part of your day, it becomes easier to stick to it in the long run.
4. Track your progress (and celebrate it!)
There’s nothing more motivating than seeing how far you’ve come. Tracking your progress, whether it’s through a fitness app, a diary, or a simple checklist, can help you stay accountable and celebrate wins along the way.
Make it happen: This doesn’t mean obsessing over numbers or comparing yourself to others. Instead, focus on what matters most to you. For example, running a little further, lifting something a little heavier, or simply feeling more energized throughout the day. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress is a powerful reminder of why you started in the first place.
5. Listen to your body and be flexible
Although it’s exciting to start a workout routine, it’s important to remember that your body takes time to adapt. Rest and recovery are just as important as the training itself. If you’re feeling tired or sore, allow yourself a rest day or choose gentler exercise like stretching or walking.
Make it happen: Being flexible also means adjusting your daily life as your needs change. Some weeks you may feel motivated to work out five times, and other weeks two may be enough. that’s ok. Listening to your body and respecting what it needs will help you stay consistent and avoid burnout in the long run.
Workout programs we love
Every fitness journey is made successful with the right support, whether it’s the encouragement of friends, your local community, or an inspiring online space. Finding a program that aligns with your goals and values ​​can make all the difference in building a sustainable routine. Here are some of our favorite workout programs to help you move intentionally, connect with your body, and make fitness an integral part of your lifestyle. From strength and mindfulness to functional movement and breathing, there’s something here for everyone.
barre 3. Barre3 provides a full-body workout that combines strength, cardio, and mindfulness to leave you feeling balanced and powerful. With in-studio classes, online workouts, and a supportive community, barre3 can meet you wherever you are in your fitness journey.
shape. FORM redefines Pilates for the modern fitness enthusiast, offering dynamic guided workouts designed to strengthen and tone your body. With a focus on personalized programs and intentional movement, this program is a great way to build a sustainable routine that works for you, no matter where you are.
soul sink body. Soul Sync Body combines mindful movement and transformative breathing techniques to create a holistic fitness experience. These workouts are designed to strengthen your body while fostering a deep connection with your mind and spirit, making them powerful practices for overall health.
pivot. Pvolve offers a functional fitness approach that prioritizes conscious, low-impact movements to increase strength and mobility. With an emphasis on form and intentionality, these workouts will help you move better in your daily life while feeling strong, balanced, and empowered.
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Learning how to start working out can seem overwhelming, but the key is to approach it with curiosity, self-compassion, and a willingness to explore what feels good for your body. Remember, fitness is not about perfection. It’s about finding joy in moving your body and building habits that suit your needs and lifestyle. Whether it’s taking small consistent steps, exploring different workout programs, or reframing exercise as a way to take care of yourself, every effort counts. So take the first step, embrace the process, and trust that over time, your routine will become a meaningful and sustainable part of your life. Your body and mind will thank you.
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
