New to fitness? Let's smash the beginner fitness lies and move in joy.
When you start exercising for the first time, or the first time in a long time, you might be inundated with lies about what your exercise should look like. No matter where those lies come from, they are “rules” that can get in the way of your movement so you feel pressure or don’t even begin.
Lie 1: You have to join a gym.
If the gym is intimidating or out of your budget, there are so many effective and fun ways to work out outside and at home with little to no equipment. You can use your own body weight to build muscle and supportive shoes to walk or jog.
If you want to try the gym, request a tour of the equipment. The gym staff is usually happy to show you how to use exercise equipment. No matter where you are, the important part is that you move in a way that you enjoy.
Lie 2: Working out less than 30 minutes doesn't even count.
It absolutely does. Time and energy are our biggest excuses for not showing up for our bodies. Multiple studies show that workouts of ten minutes improve cardiovascular health.
What you need is a mindset of grace mixed with the desire to keep your body healthy.
With those thoughts in mind, ask yourself: What am I willing to do?
If you can’t bear to get changed and drive to the gym, then lace up your shoes and go for a short walk or run. Or maybe you can’t bring yourself to attend that online exercise class you paid for. Then, don’t even change your clothes and do ten minutes of stretching or pilates. You can stay in your pajamas!
Lie 3: You're not fast or strong enough. Why start now?
Always got picked last for the team in gym class? Faked sick on the mile-run day? As a result, you may have adopted a fixed mindset that you were born with certain skills and you can’t learn anything new. Thankfully, that notion is completely wrong! Neuroplasticity shows that we can learn new things with practice.
The good news is, exercise isn’t about being the strongest, fastest, or most toned. Exercising is a way to worship God with your body and breath. It helps you care for the good body God has given you to love and serve those around you. So, if you have a body, moving is for you!
If you’re a beginner at exercise, it is of utmost importance that you are kind to yourself. Every movement is practice. Your body and brain will learn how to cope with exertion and use different muscles. A growth mindset will change your approach, and success, in everything you do. Know that, scientifically, you will improve. You simply need to show up for yourself and be willing to try.
Your Fitness Journey Starts Here
If you’re new to fitness or just getting back into an exercise routine after a long hiatus, The Ultimate Guide to Fitness for Beginners will have everything you need to get started, Revelation Wellness style!
Truth: Your body was made to move (however it moves best).
You are on a long-term journey to physical and mental health and exercise plays an enormous part in both. Keeping up a fitness routine is difficult; there are so many other things calling our attention. But, it is worth it to prioritize your health and well-being so you consistently show up and move.
Give yourself grace when you miss a workout or when you move differently than someone else. God is pleased with you! He isn’t measuring your movement against your friends’. Let your workout become a space to worship God with all your heart, mind, and strength.
So however you move, on two legs, one leg, or a wheelchair, move for the glory of God!
If you are struggling with believing that your body is something to be protected and treated with love, try exploring other Revelation Wellness resources like a “Be Still and Be Loved” podcast episode. Let God’s love for you be your greatest motivation to move in joy!
Samantha Holmberg is a Revelation Wellness instructor from Platoon 25. She is passionate about inspiring freedom in young women so they may live healthy, abundant lives. From March–May 2022, she posted grace-filled Instagram tips for anyone new to running, under the highlight “Couch to Half Marathon.” Sam has a podcast called Learning and Unlearning that focuses on wellness, goals, and relationships. Find her on www.samholmberg.com.
