3 Things I Wish I Knew Taking On A New Exercise Routine
Running. CrossFit. Cycling. Regardless of the activity, these applied each and every time.
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It’s the beginning of a new year. For many, that means trying to get back into some sort of routine and implementing healthier habits (that may or may not have slipped during the holiday months). I got a DM the other day, asking me what the hardest thing was when I picked up running, and it made me think. The act itself was hard, sure, but in retrospect I think there were some things I did that actually made it more difficult on myself. And thus, here are three things I wish I knew from the get-go:
It’s easier with friends.
There’s so much unnecessary stigma about being a beginner. It’s normal to worry about things like not being good enough or fast enough or [insert concern here]. But if you let your worries prevent you from tackling a new fitness routine with friends, you could be doing yourself a major disservice. Working with a partner, especially in a group or team format, improves performance, doubling the workout time of those who exercised alone, according to one study by the Society of Behavioral Medicine. And! A 2016 study published in the journal Obesity found that overweight people tend to lose more weight if they spend time with their fit friends — the more time they spend together, the more weight they lose.
This really rings true for me in every single aspect of my fitness routine, from running to strength (hence, years of CrossFit because I adored the community) — road cycling to yoga. Community is such a special part of fitness, one that can understandably be intimidating as a beginner. You’ll be so proud to see what happens when you put your ego to the side.
It won’t be perfect at the beginning, and that’s OK.
Candidly, I absolutely hated the act of running when I started. However! I loved the way that it made me feel and I had a strong why connected with the movement (more on that, shortly). It was hard and I did indeed feel like “I sucked at it,” but I’m so glad I persevered through what the gremlin voice in my head was chiming in with. Whether or not the execution is “perfect,” there’s so much to be said about showing up in the first place and putting yourself out there as a beginner. Remember: You only get to be a beginner at something once. So, soak it in. Embrace it. And know this: It’s only up from here.
Whatever you choose to do, make sure you have a why.
I’m big on doing activities that you enjoy. I know what you’re thinking: But Emily, you said you hated running. Why did you stick with it? Well, at the time I had a strong why: I wanted to continue on my weight loss journey, and running was one of the only tools that I had available to me without access to a gym or weights while working at an overnight summer camp.
So, I committed to learn how to love it. If you pick up an activity just because you see someone else doing it on Instagram, you may not stick with it if you don’t have a personal vested interest. So, make sure, regardless of what you choose — whether it’s boxing or dance cardio or kettlebells or [insert something else here] — you’re doing it because you genuinely want to.
TELL ME: What’s something trying a new workout routine taught you?
Keep hurdling,
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
I’m Listening To: The Dream Bigger Podcast with Siffat Haider
Just found this, and I really dig Siffat’s relaxed style of interviewing and easy conversation style. Her set of solo episodes leading into 2024 are a great place to start, especially this one offering up tips to starting a business, creating boundaries, and cultivating community.
I’m Watching: The Diplomat
The way I let out an audible ughhhhhh when I learned that there was only one season of this currently available. Watched the whole series last week, and now I’ll anxiously await the the second installment so I can giggle at Keri Russel's dry humor. I also watched the new Netflix movie from Dan Levy, Good Grief. Levy is so damn lovable. The writing in it is excellent. Prepare for tears.
Gear I’m Loving: ASICS Nimbus-26
The newest Nimbus gets a hell yes from me. I’ve been wearing it on almost all of my runs (alongside the Novablast). I’ve got to give it some love here, as you can get an extra $10 off of it (see offer below) through the weekend. It’s my go-to pick for easy road miles, super plush and comfortable. The knit upper feels like a hug, and the stretchy tongue makes the whole shoe feel like a second skin.
Quote I’m Loving: “Don’t wait on anyone to tell you what you are worth. You have to be the first person who knows what you are worth and can say what you are worth.” — Cleo Wade
A big thank you to ASICS and for supporting Hurdle!
The year 2024 is all about living your life with a sound mind, sound body, which is why ASICS is providing Hurdle listeners with an exclusive deal to encourage you to Move Your Mind with ASICS in the new year.
We are in the final days to maximize on ASICS exclusive offer for Hurdle listeners! Use the code HURDLE10 at checkout on ASICS.com for $10 off orders of $100 or more through January 14th.
New year, new eating habits? For many, the turn of the calendar means trying to clean up their diet. Enter dietitian Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN. She's here this week to answer your most popular nutrition questions, including topics like Whole 30, Dry January, and more.
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Another (weekly) Hurdle conquered. Catch you guys next week.