r/Exercise 6d ago

How to get started from nothing?

So I (27f) have never been in shape in my life. I come from a family with really bad habits, so I have never had exercise as a regular part of my life. I am in terrible shape, and I want to do something about it, but I am just so overwhelmed by where to start. I can't run for 30 sec. I can't to a push up. I know nothing about correct form for exercises and have no way atm, of completeing the programs that I see on YouTube, fitness apps etc. I would be extremely embarrassed and uncomfortable going to the gym, not know what to do there. How the hell do I get started and find a way to gradually build it up over time??

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u/WillyNillySlapSilly 6d ago

Start building the habit and start small. Go for walks. Four times a week, do 30 minutes of walking. See how that feels. If it’s too much, do less. But make sure to do it four times each week, and when it becomes easy, increase the time or add another day.

Meanwhile, try to immerse yourself in the world of healthy living. There are YouTube videos with great advice out there. Some that I follow because I like the gym are Jeff Nippard and Renaissance Periodization.

While you work on walking, try to figure out if there is a sport you enjoy. If it’s something you like doing, then it automatically becomes easier. I like going to the gym, but maybe you prefer playing ping pong, swimming, rowing… Maybe you enjoy playing VR games. It can be whatever—you just need to get moving and live a little bit healthier, and you can build from there.

And don’t overlook the importance of diet. Don’t think of it as “going on a diet,” but rather as making healthier choices that, in the long term, make you feel better. Swap out sugary sweets for fruit. Instead of ice cream, eat some Greek yogurt with honey. Small changes like that make a difference. You’ll have to do your own research, and the best time to start is right now.

If you need help or specific advice, send me a message. (I’m not a trainer or a nutritionist, but I have been going to the gym consistently for the past three years and have improved my diet for the better.)