Starting to work out – whether you’re trying to get back into a routine or brand new to exercise – is a daunting task. But it doesn’t need to be. There are many different approaches that can be taken to make fitness fun and fulfilling.

There is no best way to move your body. There are many different ways to exercise and finding the one that is right for you is incredibly important. You might love going to the gym and lifting weights or you might love swimming laps in the pool. Spin class might be your favorite or hiking in the mountains. When it comes to being active and healthy, there is no perfect mold you need to fit into. Don’t let fitness stereotypes and fad workouts ruin your personal journey. If you find an enjoyable way to safely improve your health and exercise your body, then that’s perfect.

You don’t need to go from zero to sixty. Feeling incredibly motivated and wanting to jump right in with workouts almost every day is fine, but easing into it and exercising once or twice a week is also good. Burnout is a serious concern so it’s more than okay to start slow and let your body and mind adjust to a new routine. Celebrate every success and every step in the right direction, and don’t punish yourself if it doesn’t go smoothly from the get-go.

You don’t need to go through this journey alone. Finding a good workout buddy can be a real game changer. You can find a friend to physically workout with, join a group exercise class, or get a personal trainer. Adding a person or a group to the equation really helps with accountability which can improve consistency with workouts, not to mention keep it fun and interesting.

Every person’s journey – fitness or otherwise – is different. A lot of the same “life rules” apply to exercise: do what’s best for you, you can always ask for help, don’t be afraid to fail as long as you try again, and be patient.

UVAC has a great assortment of small group training which can really help you with motivation and accountability to get started. For more information go here: http://uvacswim.org/group-training/

By Hannah Mollmark, UVAC Personal Trainer