Just getting started can be hard…

Written By Tiffany Johnson

Getting Back into Exercise: A Practical Approach

If you’re like me, you might have a lot of knowledge about exercise and health but still struggle to make it a consistent part of your life. I’m 46 years old and have seen my fitness routine shift dramatically over the years. After a few major life changes—meeting my husband, moving to Oregon, starting a new career, and navigating perimenopause—exercise fell to the wayside. Although I used to be very active, the changes in my body over the past four years have made it clear that I need a new approach.

These days, my focus isn’t just on weight loss but on staying strong, reducing pain, and continuing to enjoy activities I love. Getting back into a routine has been challenging, but I’ve found that starting small is key.

Start Small and Build Consistency

Here’s what’s worked for me:

  1. Begin with Short Sessions: Start with just 20 minutes of exercise, three days a week. If 20 minutes feels too much, that’s okay—start with even less. The goal is to make exercise a regular part of your life, not to jump into a rigorous routine right away.

  2. Set Aside Time, Not Just Exercise: Focus on setting aside time for exercise rather than diving straight into the workout. For the first couple of weeks, try to allocate 10 minutes at a time that suits you best, based on your energy levels. This might be in the morning or evening, depending on what feels right for you.

  3. Find Your Preferred Environment: Decide whether you prefer working out at home or going to the gym. If you need to leave the house to stay motivated, consider driving to the gym and then walking in the neighborhood for 10 minutes before heading home. If home workouts are more your style, set aside 10 minutes right after work or shortly after dinner.

  4. Stay Consistent: The first step is simply to make time for exercise. Once this feels manageable, you can gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts.

The Takeaway

Starting small and staying consistent is crucial. By focusing on setting aside time and building the habit, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success. Remember, it’s about making progress and finding a routine that works for you, not striving for perfection.

By taking these small steps, you’ll be on your way to staying strong, reducing pain, and enjoying the activities you love. Keep going—you’ve got this!

Tiffany Johnson