Steps For Starting An Exercise Program When You're Obese
Most people have an image in their head of what they want to be, but who they are on the outside doesn't always match this mental image. Overweight people are often mocked in this society, and that can take a toll on your self-esteem. Ultimately what matters is how you perceive yourself. If you're ready to change your weight, you can. If you are ready to get moving and shed the extra pounds, here are the essential steps you need to follow.
Step 1: See Your Doctor
See your primary physician for a check-up before starting an exercise routine. That's especially important when you're obese because your doctor needs to check that you are physically ready to handle exercise. Your health care provider will also be able to offer advice on how much you should take on right now and what you need to consider when exercising.
Step 2: Buy Workout Clothes Now
Once you get the go-ahead from you doctor, waltz into your favorite plus-size shop and buy a few cute exercise outfits. Don't worry about the latest styles or trends. Go with what feels good to you and what will empower you to feel more confident about yourself. Just make sure to get a few nice things. If you have go to the gym in torn old clothes that don't fit properly, you are setting yourself up to avoid it.
Step 3: Join a Gym
It's important to have someone looking after your health and well-being when you are transitioning from a sedentary lifestyle to one that includes exercise. When you are ready to get serious about exercising, it's time to join a gym. The kind of gym that you join should be one that includes the opportunity to do exercises that you personally enjoy.
Step 4: Pick a Trainer
Private training gyms like Halevy Life are ideal because you really need a private personal trainer who can recommend specific, low-impact exercises so that you won't put too much stress on your body. A trainer instructs you on how to do specific exercises and designs workouts for you. Also, a trainer helps prevent injuries by supervising your workouts and also keeps you motivated.
Most gyms give you the opportunity to choose the best personal trainer for you among several that they have available. You can specify whether you'd like to work out with a male or a female, and you may want to meet with a personal trainer before making any sort of commitment.
Step 5: Make a Plan
With the help of your personal trainer, make a plan for working out that is reasonable. Over-committing to a killer routine will ultimately do more harm than good. Instead, plan for moderate exercise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity (or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity) cardiovascular exercise each week and muscle-building exercises for the shoulders, arms, chest, abs, back, legs, and hips on at least two days per week.
Step 6: Get Moving
Under the supervision of your personal private trainer, get moving. Joining a gym only helps you when you help yourself to following through with the commitment. Be sure to start your exercise program once you plan it. You don't have to be perfect every week, as the goal should be progress, not any attempt at perfection.
Finally, keep in mind that getting started is the hardest part. Your personal trainer will agree that the most difficult part is at the start of a workout program when even a bit of exertion may feel intense. Stick with it, though, and you will see the pounds dropping before you know it. As you see the pounds dropping, it will be easier to stay motivated to stick with it. You can do it. You are worth it. When in doubt, remind yourself of this fact, and keep going.