Starting a new workout can be intimidating, especially if you haven’t been to the gym in a while — but it doesn’t have to be.
Dr. Marie Schaefer, a sports medicine specialist for Cleveland Clinic, has some helpful tips on how to ease back into exercise.
“When someone starts a new workout regimen, I think it’s really important to set sustainable goals. You don’t want to immediately go out, if you have never run before try to go run 30 minutes because you’re not going to be successful, and when you’re not successful, that works against you mentally,” said Schaefer.
She recommends working out twice a week in the beginning and then gradually increasing your activity from there. You don’t want to burn yourself out. It’s also important to get enough rest between workouts.
So, which exercises are best for beginners?
Dr. Schaefer said it really all depends on personal preference. However, she would suggest mixing in both cardio and strength training.
