New Year, New Start: How to Get (Back) Into Working Out
As the calendar flips to a new year, many of us feel inspired to turn over a new leaf and prioritize our health and fitness. But if you haven’t worked out in a while—or ever—it’s natural to feel overwhelmed about where to start. Maybe life got in the way with work, family, or the holidays, or perhaps it’s your very first time thinking about fitness. Whatever your situation, there’s no better time than now to get moving. Here’s how to start (or restart) your workout journey in a way that feels sustainable and empowering.
1. Set Small Goals That Add Up
We all want to sprint toward our goals, but lasting progress happens one step at a time. Rather than committing to an intense 5-day workout plan right away, start with manageable, bite-sized goals. Can you dedicate 10-15 minutes a day to movement? Whether it’s stretching, walking, or a beginner-friendly workout, those small efforts will snowball into bigger habits over time. The key is to focus on consistency over intensity.
2. Embrace Progress, Not Perfection
Your workouts don’t have to be perfect to count. Whether it’s a quick stretch while waiting for your coffee or taking a few flights of stairs during your lunch break, every bit of movement matters. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and remember that showing up for yourself is the real victory.
3. Pace Yourself
It’s tempting to go all in with long workouts or heavy weights when you’re feeling motivated, but pacing yourself is crucial to avoid burnout or injury. Start at about 50% of what you think you can handle, and give your body time to adapt. Over the next few weeks, gradually increase the intensity or duration of your workouts as your strength and stamina improve.
4. Listen to Your Body
Soreness is a normal part of starting (or restarting) a fitness routine, but there’s a difference between soreness and pain. If you’re feeling stiff or tired, light movement like walking, yoga, or stretching can help you recover faster. However, if you feel sharp or shooting pain, it’s a sign to rest and consult a professional if needed.
5. Build a Recovery Routine
Recovery is just as important as the workout itself. Stretching, hydrating, and sleeping well will set you up for success as you build your routine. At IBX, every workout ends with a guided cooldown to help you recover faster and prevent injury. Take time to honor your body’s needs and let it recharge so you can show up strong the next day.
What’s Next?
This year is your opportunity to make movement a part of your life, and IBX Fitness is here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re a beginner or returning after a long break, our scalable workouts meet you where you are.
