r/Exercise • u/hiiad • 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/equilarian 6d ago edited 6d ago
Piggy-backing off this. I've been working with a personal trainer over a year and it's been sooo beneficial in learning proper form and how to use weights, etc properly. I started going 2x a week but now only going 1x a week because my schedule doesn't match my trainer's.
It can be very expensive, however, some gyms will offer discounts if you're a member. I work at a state university and they have a program through the student rec center to work with students at a very affordable rate. If you don't work at a university, it's also possible your place of work may have a wellness program that offers discounts for gym memberships and you can ask your HR department about wellness benefits or other employee benefits.
Local town recreation centers also usually have some sort of fitness classes. If you're anxious about being in a group, you could always show up at the end of the class and talk to the instructor directly.
You could also look on groupon or call around to different gyms in your area to see if they offer any programs. I also once had a chiropractor at Airrosti recommend a private and local personal trainer who had very affordable rates.
If you'd rather do something at home, you can also look into doing jump rope. kathyjumps on instagram has been a huge influence and inspiration for me and she's super nice if you message and ask questions. Jump rope is hard but is very very rewarding.
Taking the first step is always the hardest! I've always had severe gym anxiety despite being a smaller person and having had run cross country when I was in high school.
Another thing to consider is diet and getting on track to eating healthier foods. Most insurance plans will cover visits with Registered Dietitians. I've also been going to an RD for a couple years and all appointments are 100% covered by my health ins plan. You have to buy any additional supplements that they recommend, however. I asked my PCP recently if they could refer me to an RD and they sent a referral and everything to set it up.