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Beginner’s Guide to Fitness: How to Start Your Journey the Right Way

Starting a fitness journey can feel overwhelming. With so much information out there, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. But here’s the truth: getting fit doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to start small, stay consistent, and build a routine that works for you.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to begin your fitness journey successfully—including workouts, nutrition, motivation, and common mistakes to avoid.

Step 1: Define Your Goals

Before you lace up your sneakers, ask yourself: What do I want to achieve? Your fitness goals will determine the best plan for you. Some common goals include:

  • Weight loss – Burning more calories than you consume through exercise and diet.
  • Muscle building – Strength training to increase muscle mass.
  • Improving endurance – Running, cycling, or swimming to boost stamina.
  • Overall health – A mix of cardio and strength for general well-being.

For example, “I want to lose X amount of weight in X amount of time.”

Step 2: Create a Workout Routine That Works for You!

Here is an example of a 3-day workout plan

Day 1: Full-Body Strength Training
Exercise Sets Reps
Squats310
Push-ups310
Dumbbell Rows310
Planks310
Day 2: Cardio
ExerciseTime
Walk or Jog 30 Minutes
Jump rope or Jump in place2 Minutes
Stretching10 Minutes
Day 3: Strength + Core
Exercise Sets Reps
Lunges310
Shoulder Press310
Bicycle Crunches310
Leg Raises310

These exercises can be used with or without weight. If just starting make sure to look up videos showing proper form of the exercises to avoid injury!

Step 3: Focus on Nutrition

Fitness isn’t just about workouts—nutrition plays a massive role in results. Studies have shown that the weight loss journey is roughly 80% diet/nutrition and 20% exercise. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/diet-vs-exercise#weight-loss

Some key factors to consider when creating your nutrition plan is:

  • Eat Whole Foods – Focus on lean proteins, whole gains, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Stay Hydrated – Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
    • If you find yourself hungry, try drinking a glass of water before you eat! You’ll feel more full.
  • Protein is Key – Helps with muscle recovery and keeps you fuller longer!
  • Avoid Processed Foods – The bed time scoop of ice cream or bag of chips gotta go!

Step 4: Stay Consistent & Motivated

Outside of nutrition and exercise, consistency is what separates those that give up from a lack of results and those that prosper!

  • Set Small Goals – Celebrate every milestone. Even drinking more water is a win!
  • Track Your Progress – Write down your workouts and improvements.
  • Find a Workout Buddy – Accountability makes a big difference.

Remember! This journey is not a straight path. You will have highs and lows, just remember the reason you started this journey and get back to work the next day!

References

[1] American Council on Exercise (ACE) – Beginner Workout Plans: https://www.acefitness.org
[2] MyFitnessPal – Nutrition & Calorie Tracking: https://www.myfitnesspal.com
[3] Harvard Health – Benefits of Exercise: https://www.health.harvard.edu
[4] Mayo Clinic – Fitness Basics: https://www.mayoclinic.org