What Workout Routine to Start for the New Year
New years is soon upon us. A season where gym memberships spike, fitness plans are made, people try new activities, and fitness is at the forefront. But it’s also a time where it can be a bit daunting on how to get started, how to make your routine sustainable, and what your fitness routine should or shouldn’t be.
While you are likely to hear varying advice on what routine is the best, everyone is different—thus every workout routine is different. That being said, no matter who you are and what routine you are getting started, there are some general do’s and don’ts that can help get you started and keep you going.
How do I stay on a fitness plan?
With any new routine, you’ll want to have at least a plan for your routine and try to stick with it. But also come up with a plan B because sometimes things happen. For example, maybe you plan to workout 5 times a week, while your backup plan could be for on days it doesn’t happen you walk at least 30 min.
Here are some other things to consider while making your plan(s).
Don’t overwhelm yourself
While it’s easy to get swept up in fitness goals, we recommend with any new routine to work on consistency first. Show up each day (or nearly every day) and if it doesn’t happen, don’t give up. Just try again the next day.
Do find a buddy
Have a buddy you can workout with, share goals with, and vent to when the going gets tough. Having an accountability buddy helps with any fitness routine.
Don’t make it a chore
The moment your routine starts to feel like a chore or punishment is the moment you’ll want to change things up. Fitness should be fun, so any workout routine should be fun! Or at the very least have some element of fun.
Do personalize your fitness routine
At the end of the day, the master of planning should be you. You know what’s best for you—timing, commitment, fun, and accountability-wise. To create a plan that is yours.
Don’t make absolutes
No, but really, don’t put absolutes in your plan, as they often set you up for too high expectations and frustration. Setting absolutes won’t make you more accountable, but consistency and encouragement will.
What kind of workouts can I try?
The fun part of a workout routine often lies with the activities themselves and not the plans. While you might already know the types of workouts you want to do, here are some you could consider, or add to your plan.
Virtual cycling
Virtual cycling isn’t just indoor cycling— it’s a fun, entertaining, and interactive way to cycle. This way, you get the physical benefits of cycling, but get to engage in a different environment.
With a virtual training app like Vingo you can explore the world on a bike—and the best part is all you need is yourself and an indoor bike.
Indoor running
If you are looking for impact with less time commitment, indoor running is a great option. Indoor running helps strengthen your joints, build muscle and increase endurance. Plus experts say that as little as 5-10 minutes of a full run can give you the physical benefits.1
Weight lifting
Weightlifting is a classic activity, and great for any routine. While many decide to weight lift at a gym, investing in a few weights at home makes this a super simple add-on.
Group fitness classes
Group fitness classes span from boxing, dancing, cycling, restorative yoga, and more. There is a group class for such a wide range of activities you are bound to find one you like.
You may find group fitness classes are fun because they keep you accountable and allow you to meet new fitness friends.
Is it okay to only do 1 exercise?
While it’s likely to have one activity or two that you like the best, any workout routine should have a balance of what’s challenged, and a blend of strength, cardio, and flexibility.
Strength
Strength is an important aspect of any workout routine, as aside from building muscle, it helps people’s bone mass, and lowers their risk of disease. 2
Cardio
Cardio helps multiple physical functions as well as mental functions. Cardio is also a key part of lowering the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Flexibility
Flexibility is often overlooked but can help prevent injury and joint function. Think about adding simple stretches or more flexibility-driven movement to your routine.
What do I need to do stay healthy?
While workout routines are great and so important for your health, the best workouts are even better with other health aspects like,
- Healthy eating
- Proper sleep
- Drinking water
Don’t take things too seriously!
At the end of the day, things should be fun. Make it social, make it fun.
Key Takeaways:
The magic of your new years fitness routine is likely already in you! You will know what is best for you and what you need. But if you’re not sure where to get started, following basic guidelines like planning ahead, finding a fun activity and challenging different aspects of your body are all great places to start.Remember you got this, and along the way, have some fun.
Tired of hypercompetitive fitness apps?
Enjoy Vingo’s judgment-free community!
Explore new worlds on many different terrains
Personalize your avatar with cool clothes and gears
Experience Vingo anywhere on any exercise bike or treadmill
Sources
- Pendick D. (2014). Running for health. Even a little bit is good, but a little more is probably better.
health.harvard.edu/blog/running-health-even-little-bit-good-little-probably-better-201407307310 - Hong, A. R., & Kim, S. W. (2018). Effects of Resistance Exercise on Bone Health. Endocrinology and metabolism (Seoul, Korea), 33(4), 435–444. https://doi.org/10.3803/EnM.2018.33.4.435
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