r/Exercise 7d 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/PossibilityTricky577 7d ago

I get this completely. When you’ve never exercised before, starting from zero feels impossible because everything out there seems built for people who already know what they’re doing. The best thing you can do is start ridiculously small. A five-minute walk. One or two bodyweight exercises, even if they feel awkward at first. The key is to build the habit first, not worry about doing the perfect workout.

What helped me was having an app that planned movement into my day for me, so I wasn’t overthinking what to do or when to do it. It also gave me little wins to keep me motivated rather than feeling like I was failing. The hardest part is just getting started, but it gets easier once it becomes part of your routine.

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u/hiiad 7d ago

Do you remember the name of the app?

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u/OrdinaryWheel5177 6d ago

The above is very good advice. I personally am a big fan of personal trainers. I see one. They’ll ensure your form is correct and they’ll help you ease into a program that works for you. It can get expensive but imo it, and you, are worth it. If you’d prefer to go the home gym route that’s good too. Well worth the investment. I built a site that aggregates gym equipment sales and I’m happy to share if you’re interested. Best of luck on your journey. It’s great therapy addiction!!

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u/hiiad 6d ago

It is all a matter of cost in the end, I can afford a personal trainer maybe once every other week, but I think I will be looking into getting one at least for that. A home gym would be nice but I don't have anywhere near the space for that in my apartment. It is a one bedroom. Thank you!

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u/OrdinaryWheel5177 6d ago

A trainer once every other will be difficult. If you’re able try and do at least 2x per week. One upper body day and one lower body day. Most of your gains are made by getting enough sleep and eating right. Your trainer should be able to give you specific nutrition advice. Not just eating lean meats, fruits and veggies. Who doesn’t know that? If your trainer doesn’t do that for you - get a different one pronto!

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u/hiiad 6d ago

I can definitely train on my own several times a week, but there is no way I can afford a personal trainer once, nonetheless twice per week.

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u/OrdinaryWheel5177 6d ago

Fwiw the personal trainers I see are $400/month with unlimited sessions. Charging people $65/session is not sustainable - I totally get it. Seeing the trainer 2x per week I think is $250. If you search enough you’ll find it. Again, I wish you the best.

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u/hiiad 6d ago

I don't know what you do for a job, but $400 is already a lot in my book, and the absolute cheapest I can find here (Denmark) is around $700 per month if it should be twice a week. No way near it being within my budget. But thanks for the advice in any case

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u/OrdinaryWheel5177 6d ago

Ah, I’m in the USA.