Official Blog of WeddingShape.com

How to get started -- and stick -- with a routine

All right, you’ve gotten lots of info about fitness, nutrition, and general lifestyle, but you’re still struggling with the most important piece of the feel good/look good puzzle: How the heck do you get started?

It seems overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be.

Follow these steps and you’ll be on your way to a fitness pledge that will yield amazing results:

1. Make a commitment to looking and feeling fabulous – right now. Put your promise in writing, signed and dated.

An example might read, “I (your name) am committed to dedicating myself to a regular fitness routine and will exercise (number) times a week. I will make fitness a priority.”

2. Take “before” photos. You don’t have to post a picture on your refrigerator, but keep them close by as visual motivation to stick to your workouts.

3. Grab a piece of paper. Write your name and the date at the top. Next, answer these questions:

• Are you new to fitness and exercise or have you worked out consistently in the past?
• What other diet and/or exercise programs have you followed before? Were you successful? Why or why not?
• In addition to looking great, what are your other motivations for starting a fitness routine?
• What are your initial goals?

4. See how you measure up. Take your starting-point measurements of the following:

• Your body weight
• Arm
• Waist
• Hips
• Thigh
• Calf
• Dress size
• Blood pressure
• Resting heart rate

You’ll take these again at weeks 13, 26, 39 and 52. At each progress point, talk with your trainer about moving to a different level or varying your workout so you’re continuing to be challenged and motivated.

5. Take photos! At a big event or just because you’re feeling successful, take your “after” photos. These will serve as your new motivation.

6. Gauge your feelings and goals. When you’ve reached a significant goal, answer the following questions and remember to date this, as well. These questions and answers will set a new pinnacle to strive for:

• Did you accomplish your goals? How did your goals change during the program?
• What new goals have you set for yourself?
• What new things have you learned about yourself during the course of your commitment?
• What sources of inspiration did you turn to?
• Will you continue your fitness commitment? Why or why not?
• How has your personal transformation affected your life?

Need an extra boost? Check out WeddingShape Diet and Fitness Guide for Brides where you’ll find top secrets and strategies for getting in the best shape of your life for the biggest day of your life.

Yours in health,

Joe

Joseph Arangio
Directr, PEAK Strength & Conditioning CLUB
Author, WeddingShape Diet and Fitness Guide for Brides
5925 Tilghman St.
Suite 200
Allentown, PA 18104