When it comes to fitness, many people wait for the “perfect time” to get started—whether it’s New Year’s resolutions, a specific date two weeks from now, or even “next Monday.” But life is unpredictable, and waiting for the “right time” might lead to more setbacks than progress.
Imagine this: you set your fitness start date, and when the day arrives, you’re motivated to hit the gym. But as you’re driving, you hit a pothole and get a flat tire. Suddenly, your focus shifts to fixing your car, and your motivation to exercise disappears. Or maybe you’re a busy parent, and just as you plan to begin your routine, your child’s coach schedules an impromptu practice. Do you skip your workout or sacrifice your child’s practice?
Life happens, and there will always be challenges. So, why wait? Why not start today?
Small Steps, Big Impact
Starting your fitness journey doesn’t have to involve grand gestures or hours at the gym. Think about your daily routine. For example, after a long workday and a frustrating commute, you might want to unwind with your favorite TV show. Instead of just sitting on the couch during commercial breaks, try incorporating simple exercises like:
•First break: Do lunges, squats, and high knees.
•Second break: Add jumping jacks, full-body crunches, and side planks.
Over an hour or two of watching TV, you’ll have completed an effective workout—without ever leaving your living room.
The Myth of Long Workouts
A common misconception is that workouts must be long or require fancy equipment. That’s not true! You can start anywhere with no equipment. A quick 20-minute bodyweight workout can be just as effective as an hour in the gym.
Consider this: are you maximizing your gym time, or are you spending five-minute breaks between sets and stretching your workout to two hours? Instead, challenge yourself with a focused 20-minute bodyweight routine. It’s efficient, gets your heart rate up, and can often leave you feeling better than a weightlifting session.
Turn Your Home into a Gym
If you can’t make it to the gym, don’t stress. Your home can become your workout space. Start with bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and planks. As your fitness level improves, increase the intensity by adding more reps, sets, or variations.
Even small actions can make a difference. Start with a five-minute walk or climb your stairs twice before settling in for the evening. The next day, push a little further—add an extra minute to your walk or another trip up the stairs. Small, consistent progress is the key to achieving your goals.
Active Recovery Matters
Rest days don’t have to mean doing nothing. Opt for active recovery to help your body relax and rejuvenate. Go for a long walk, do some light stretching, or try a yoga session. These activities keep you moving while giving your body time to recover.
Just Get Started
Everyone has fitness goals, but you’ll never reach them if you don’t start. Remember, starting small is better than not starting at all. Whether it’s a quick bodyweight session, a walk around the block, or stretching during TV breaks, every little bit counts.
Don’t wait for the perfect time—because the perfect time is now.
Take that first step today, and your future self will thank you.
Written By:
Darrid Watson, CSCS, NSCA-CPT
Take action… Now!
Voorhees Flyers Training center. The Hollydell ice arena, in the main building. Ice land hockey rink
