As a fitness instructor and personal trainer, I am asked what kind of workout should I do? And of course, my answer always starts with the same thing: It depends.
It depends on several factors that will differentiate your workout from another person’s. You’ll need to ask yourself some questions to find out what is right for you.
What is your current fitness level?
If you’re overweight and haven’t exercised in a while, a visit to your doctor should come first to make sure you don’t have any preexisting conditions. You may need to start slowly with simply walking daily until you’re comfortable with regular exercise.
What can you afford to spend on fitness?
Sure, your health is worth it in the long run, but realistically some people who need to exercise can’t afford a gym membership. Community centers tend to be cheaper than private gyms. Walking or running combined with body weight exercises requires only a good quality pair of shoes and some comfortable exercise clothes. These don’t have to be expensive starting out. This also might be a good choice if you don’t like going to a gym anyway.
What are your fitness goals?
The type of workout you choose, will be highly dependent on what your fitness goals are. If you want to lose weight, you’ll have to put an emphasis on a combination of cardio and strength training, combined with healthy, clean eating. If you’re training for a triathlon, obviously, you’ll be cycling, swimming and running.
What kind of time commitment can you realistically make to your fitness?
If you have a busy lifestyle, that includes family and work commitments, a long commute each day and household chores, you won’t have 2 hours each day to commit to exercise. If you have a corporate fitness facility onsite or a private gym near your work, take 45 minutes to 1 hour to attend fitness classes or do a cardio/strength circuit to get the most bang for your buck. Bring your lunch to work to eat at your desk, which will probably be cheaper and healthier than a bought lunch. Try to commit to at least 3 sessions of exercise per week.
What activities do you enjoy?
If you don’t like something, it’s not likely you’ll stick with it. Find something that gives you the workout you need, while fulfilling other needs. If you’re social, join fitness class. If you like sports, join a league. If you’re goal driven, sign up for an event like a 10 km race or Tough Mudder and the training will correspond.
If you need more help in deciding what’s right for you, contact a certified fitness professional in your area. In the Vancouver area, you can contact personaltraining@curtishealth.com.
