If you’re new to exercising, first of all—welcome! I know how intimidating it can feel to start something new, especially if you’ve never had a fitness routine before. You might be thinking: Where do I even begin? What’s the best way to make this stick?
Let me save you some trial and error. Here’s my #1 tip: Start small and stay consistent.
That’s it. Forget trying to be perfect, forget about doing all the things at once. Building a lasting exercise habit is about showing up, keeping it simple, and making fitness something you want to keep doing. Whether you’re looking for a CrossFit gym in Columbus, GA, or just starting out with workouts at home, this advice will help you take that first step.
Why Starting Small Works
We all get fired up when we’re ready to make a change—it’s exciting! But let me tell you what I’ve seen time and again at our CrossFit gym: going too big, too fast, leads to burnout. And burnout leads to quitting.
Instead, starting small:
- Keeps it Manageable: A short walk or a beginner workout is something you can fit into even your busiest days.
- Builds Your Confidence: When you set goals you can actually achieve, you prove to yourself that you can do this.
- Creates the Habit: It’s not about how much you do at first—it’s about showing up regularly. That’s how habits are made.
How to Start Small and Stay Consistent
- Pick a Tiny Goal
Start with something ridiculously simple, like a 15-minute walk three times this week. Don’t worry about intensity yet—just focus on showing up. If you’re ready to try a gym, look for beginner-friendly options, like the programs we offer at CrossFit CSG. - Remember Your ‘Why’
Why do you want to exercise? To feel healthier? Sleep better? Have more energy to chase the kids? When your motivation dips (and it will), your “why” will keep you grounded. - Make It Easy
Lay out your workout clothes the night before, schedule your workout like a meeting, or pick something you can do at home. Reduce as many barriers as possible. If you’re in Columbus, GA, finding a CrossFit gym nearby can make this even easier. - Track It
Write down every time you complete a workout. Seeing your progress builds momentum, and momentum is gold when you’re forming a habit. - Celebrate Wins
Finished your first week of workouts? High five! Small rewards—like a new playlist or a relaxing stretch session—help reinforce your new habit. - Find Your People
There’s power in community. Whether it’s a friend to walk with, a group class, or a coach cheering you on, having support makes a huge difference. At our CrossFit gym in Columbus, GA, we see this all the time—our members lift each other up (sometimes literally!).
First-Month Fitness Plan
Here’s a simple plan to kick off your fitness journey:
- Week 1: Walk for 10-15 minutes, three times. Keep it light and fun!
- Week 2: Add one more session or increase the duration to 20 minutes.
- Week 3: Add a few light exercises, like squats or push-ups, for 5 minutes after your walk.
- Week 4: Try something new, like a beginner class or a simple workout video.
By the end of the month, you’ll feel stronger, more confident, and ready to take the next step. If you’re ready for a more structured program, check out the classes at CrossFit CSG—they’re perfect for building strength and endurance.
The Most Important Lesson
If there’s one thing I want you to take away, it’s this: fitness is about progress, not perfection. Missing a workout doesn’t mean you’ve failed. What matters is that you keep showing up for yourself, one step at a time.
I promise, the small steps add up. One day, you’ll look back and realize how far you’ve come—and it all started with that decision to just begin.
Ready to Start?
If you’re looking for a supportive and beginner-friendly CrossFit gym in Columbus, GA, we’d love to help you. Our gym is built for people just like you—real people, with busy lives, who want to get better at life. Let’s take this journey together.
See you soon,
Joanne
