Where Do I Begin?

Over the past few months, as I’ve begun my work as a personal trainer, I’ve come across quite a few people who just don’t know where to begin.  Because they’ve allowed themselves to fall into bad habits such as poor food choices, the lack of exercise, minimal daily movement, etc. they are faced with all kinds of physical and even emotional issues. The extra weight, lack of muscle, and/or lack of joint mobility is affecting their everyday lives.  They know they need a change, but they don’t know where to begin.  

I know what it’s like to be in their shoes.  Ten years ago, I was putting on weight faster than ever before, feeling weak and tired, and feeling terrible about myself. My clothes didn’t fit, my energy level was low, and my body just didn’t want to move. Some bad habits needed to be broken, while new habits needed to take their place. The question was, where would I begin? That was a hard question to answer, but one that needed an answer. 

To start, I realized I needed to get moving. For me, that meant joining a gym and prioritizing actually being there. I began taking a spin class and a group fitness class each week. That in and of itself, got me moving. I soon added some weight training, mostly using machines, two to three days a week. Finally, I took control of my diet. No, I didn’t go on any heavy duty fat-loss diet. Rather, I simply began to make healthier choices—leaner meats, more whole grains, fruits and vegetables…and less, pizza and bagels!  

That year, I lost about 20 lbs., regained my energy, began to put on some muscle, and soon felt much better about myself. The next year, I continued taking some classes, began to run, got a bit more focused on the weight training, and continued to watch my diet. A few years later, I began working with a trainer who has been able to help me move further along than I could move on my own. For sure, I’ve had some setbacks—e.g. spinal surgery, radiation for cancer. After each setback, I was faced once again with the question, “where do I begin?” Well, I knew I had to begin somewhere. And that I did. After all, not answering the question was not an option. Too much was (and is) at stake.  

So, what’s the point? For one, the question “where do I begin?” can be answered in multiple ways. It can begin with one’s food choices, starting to walk more, joining a gym, or hiring a trainer. Each person will answer the question differently, but it must be answered. Which brings me to my second point: Not answering the question is not an option. After all, one’s health, fitness, and overall well-being are at stake. Yes, there will be setbacks. We may have to answer the question again…and again….and again. But how ever many times it needs to be answered, it must be answered. 

So, where will you begin this year? Better food choices?  A bit more walking?  Joining a gym? Hiring a trainer? The choice is up to you. But whatever you do, you must begin! 

Have a great day! 

- Tim Harris  - CPT, SFS