Where do I start?

[User17273637373]

I’m sure there are a lot of these threads so apologies if I’m repeating.

I’m looking to start exercising with a proper routine. I really want to tone up, improve cardio and my general health and mental health. And I really want a realistic schedule that I will stick to and enjoy rather than dread!

Can anyone recommend any ways to get into it? I’m pretty shy and my fitness level currently feels like a 0 so not sure I’d be ready to do classes etc with others just yet. I did couch to 5k a few years ago and found running in public a bit embarrassing too. I know it’s all irrational but my self confidence is very low right now.

For context, I live in a one bedroom flat so don’t have a lot of room for certain home work outs. I work full time in an office role mostly wfh - try to at least go out for a walk daily, but my hours can be quite long. No kids and no pets.

If you have any routines that work for you and you enjoy please share!

Thank you

I’d definitely get a few sessions with a PT. It’s not just you- everyone feels self conscious when stating the gym! It will help with our confidence and weight training in particular will really build fitness. Plus when you’re ready to go it alone you can stick your headphones in and lift your weights.

You can also get cheap non fancy gyms to do it in.

Good luck!

I go to a ‘cheap’ gym chain and I honestly wouldn’t bother paying more. It has everything I need, plus the staff are friendly and helpful. Always get a good morning when I go up the stairs.

Plus by going to a cheaper gym it means I can have PT sessions twice a week. If you can I would really recommend having the sessions. Having someone teach you correct form and also just a friendly face to help get over initial nerves is really great.

To start with, there's nothing better than a stroll round the park in the fresh air. And it's free.

Do you have a friend with similar goals? My friend picks me up at 6am twice a week and we go to the gym together before work. We’re home by 7:30 so still have time to get ready.
Then at weekends we meet up for a walk and do our own bits in between, walks, extra classes, swimming or whatever.
The morning workout is a bit of Social time where we get fit in the process, and making that commitment to each other gets us out of bed!

I regularly do a 6k walk - but refer to it as a March! I wear exercise kit, stick a podcast on, and go at a very brisk pace- which would make talking not too easy. I’ve also done C25k which was good, and do work outs at home. But I do enjoy my regular marches.

Do you have a decent park nearby? Depending on the size you could do a few laps to make up the 5k for a walk, for example

Also review your diet - I was told (rightly) that you cannot out run a bad diet.

Walking would al (risk pace) could be a good option and if you are wanting to go running again maybe try a park run (which is free) nearby? You will be less self conscious if there are lots of others running with you. Best of luck!

Thanks all!

I started with some yoga last week on Tuesday and Thursday and continued with the daily walks. Was away this weekend but back on it tomorrow, going to push myself to do a bit more of an intense YouTube session from one or two of your suggestions.

We are near the river here in London plus lots of parks and I’ve got a big Heath nearby so I am really lucky! I love walking around and getting fresh air.

Diet is pretty good I would say! I’m veggie, normally do porridge with blueberries, seeds and almonds, home made veggie soups for lunch, lots of roasted veggies etc for dinner. Drink lots of water and don’t drink too much alcohol. Could probably do with upping the protein though.

Thanks again all!!