Starting or getting back into a fitness routine can be tough. We’ve all been there, feeling pumped and ready to go all out, only to hit the brakes and find ourselves back at square one. But here’s a secret: the real key to long-term success isn’t about how hard you hit it from the get-go—it’s about building a habit first. Carving out time and finding joy in your workouts is way more important than jumping into high-intensity training right away. Focus on being consistent, and the intensity will come naturally over time. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it!
1. Time Is Your Best Friend
First things first, let’s talk about making time for fitness. The goal is to carve out a few slots each week—aim for 3-4 times. Morning, afternoon, evening, it doesn’t matter! Find what works best for you and stick to it. Making time is half the battle won. Once it’s part of your schedule, it’s a date you can’t miss—like meeting your barkada for coffee, but healthier!
2. Love What You Do
Fitness shouldn’t feel like a punishment. Whether you’re into running, yoga, CrossFit, or cycling, pick something that makes you excited. If you enjoy it, you’ll keep coming back. Think of it as your “me-time” where you get to do something awesome for yourself. Trust me, when you love what you do, consistency will follow naturally.
3. Easy Does It
Now, here’s the common mistake: going all out on day one. I get it, we all want to see results fast, but overdoing it can lead to burnout or injury. Start slow and steady. Focus on being consistent rather than going full throttle. Remember, it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon (and not the kind you have to run unless you want to!).
4. Build That Momentum
Once you’ve got a routine and you’re enjoying your workouts, you’ll start to see progress. And nothing feels better than seeing those small wins. They build up your confidence and keep you motivated. Celebrate every milestone—whether it’s running an extra kilometer, holding a yoga pose longer, or just showing up consistently.
5. Dodge the Common Pitfalls
A lot of folks overcommit to intense workouts and end up exhausted or injured. Listen to your body and give it time to recover. Rest days are your friends! They help your muscles heal and get stronger. Balance is key—think of it like a good halo-halo, you need all the ingredients in the right mix.
6. Make It a Lifestyle
The endgame is to make fitness a part of your everyday life. By prioritizing time and enjoyment over intensity, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success. Embrace the journey, enjoy the process, and let the results come naturally. Fitness isn’t a one-time event; it’s a lifestyle. So, get out there, have fun, and let’s make those healthy habits stick!
Starting or getting back into fitness doesn’t have to be a drag. Focus on building the habit first by setting a consistent schedule and picking workouts you love. Avoid the intensity trap and aim for consistency and gradual improvement. Your future self will thank you, and you’ll be having fun along the way. Let’s get moving, Pinoy Fitness style!
