How do I Choose the Best Beginner Workout?

Anyone who is just starting to work out should begin slowly with a beginner workout. In addition, it may be a good idea to check with your doctor to determine if it is safe for you to work out, or to see if he or she has any recommendations. When choosing a beginner workout, it may be best to first consider your goals.

Most experts recommend a combination of aerobic and strength-training exercises for overall health and fitness. It is a good idea to exercise for approximately five days per week, for 30 to 45 minutes per session. For instance, you might choose to do aerobic exercise three days a week and strength-training exercise two days a week, for a comprehensive workout plan.

The next issue to consider when choosing the best beginner workout is the type of exercise that interests you. For example, do you want to exercise independently, either outdoors or in your home? You might also want to go to a gym and use the machines there, or take fitness classes such as aerobics, kickboxing, or cycling. Yoga or Pilates classes are popular as well, and can be great workouts for beginners or physically fit people. Many gyms also have pools for swimming or aqua aerobics classes, which are a great low-impact workout, and are especially popular with beginners.

It is important, when selecting a beginner workout, to choose an exercise you will enjoy. If you enjoy hiking and being outdoors, you might enjoy a brisk walk every day, or even jogging or cycling. If you find yourself more motivated when exercising with other people, a group class or gym membership might be a better workout strategy. If you do not enjoy your exercise plan, you will be more likely to give up when it gets challenging.

Once you have determined the method and types of exercise you want to try, you may then develop a beginner workout plan. These may also be found by searching online, or a trainer at a gym will be able to help. The plans may specify how much time you should spend exercising every day, how much weight you should lift during a certain exercise, or how high your maximum heart rate should go. It is important to follow the guidelines in a beginner workout plan to ensure you do not injure yourself, or do too much before you are ready.