David Smith, MD, a primary care sports medicine physician at The University of Kansas Health System Sports Medicine and Performance Center, offers guidance and encouragement to people of all ages who want to start an exercise program.
Q: I'm out of shape and overwhelmed. How do I even start exercising at all?
A: Always remember – anything is better than nothing.
Start by walking. Do some gentle stretches and simple strength exercises. You'll likely find that once you get moving you'll start to feel better physically, mentally and emotionally. Use this to motivate you to keep going, maybe adding a bit to your basic fitness routine.
Fitness fads come and go. So, try to start by doing something you know you can stick with for at least a year. By diversifying your program to include different exercises and activities, you're less likely to get injured or burned out.
Q: What's the most important thing to keep in mind when starting an exercise program?
A: Understand that you have to start somewhere. Think about what will motivate you not just to start – but to stick with – an exercise program. Set reasonable short-term and long-term goals, find ways to measure your results and then reward yourself when you reach a goal.
In my opinion, people spend a lot of money on fitness center memberships, home exercise equipment and wearable technology – that then go unused. I suggest 3 things:
But first, think about what will motivate you to get started and to keep at it.
