Growing up, I was always someone who loved to stay active\u2014ski racing through snowy New England winters, playing tennis well into college, and spending as much time as I could outdoors. But as I approach my 30s, I\u2019ve realized that learning how to start working out in a way that\u2019s both supportive and sustainable is about more than just staying active. It\u2019s about cultivating a deeper connection with my body and mind. What\u2019s more, I\u2019m training for the Chicago Marathon in October, and while running has taken center stage in my routine, strength training<\/a>, yoga, walking, and hiking have all become essential practices that help me feel strong, balanced, and aligned.<\/p>\n Building a workout routine that\u2019s both supportive and sustainable is about more than just staying active. It\u2019s about cultivating a deeper connection with my body and mind.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n If you\u2019ve ever wondered how to start working out, you\u2019re not alone. For many, the hardest part is simply getting started. But here\u2019s the truth: finding a workout routine that works for you isn\u2019t about being perfect or following someone else\u2019s plan. It\u2019s about discovering what makes you feel good and sticking with it long enough to experience the benefits (physical, mental, and<\/em> emotional). Below, I\u2019m sharing five tips that helped me turn exercise into a ritual I look forward to\u2014so you can, too.<\/p>\n Featured image from our interview with Megan Roup<\/a> by Michelle Nash.<\/em><\/p>\n One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting a workout routine is setting goals that are too ambitious. If you haven\u2019t worked out in months (or years), deciding to hit the gym six days a week or run a 10K right away is likely to lead to burnout\u2014or worse, injury. Instead, start small. Commit to moving your body three times a week, even if it\u2019s just a 20-minute walk around your neighborhood. (Honestly, walking is the most underrated workout there is\u2014and oftentimes, the most effective<\/a>.) This approach works because it builds confidence and consistency. As you hit these smaller goals, you\u2019ll start to feel more capable and motivated to push yourself further. <\/p>\n Make it happen:<\/strong> Take a few minutes at the beginning of each week to map out when and how you\u2019ll exercise. Add it to your calendar like any other important appointment. By keeping your initial goals manageable, you\u2019ll set yourself up for success and make working out a sustainable habit.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s be honest: if you dread every second of your workout, you\u2019re not going to stick with it. (The best workout is the one you actually do, right?) The secret to creating a lasting workout routine is finding activities you genuinely enjoy. Whether it\u2019s dancing, hiking, swimming, or a Pilates class, moving your body should feel like a celebration, not a chore.<\/p>\n Make it happen: <\/strong>Experiment with different types of exercise to discover what lights you up. Many studios offer free trials or discounted intro classes, so you can explore options without committing to one right away. Once you find something you love, it won\u2019t feel like a workout\u2014it\u2019ll feel like something you look forward to doing.<\/p>\n The mindset you bring to your workouts can make all the difference. Instead of treating exercise as something you have<\/em> to do, frame it as a ritual that nourishes your body and mind. This could mean starting your day with a yoga flow to set the tone or heading out for a post-work walk to decompress.<\/p>\n Make it happen: <\/strong>Creating rituals around your workouts helps anchor them into your routine. Light a candle before a home workout, play your favorite playlist, or treat yourself to a delicious smoothie<\/a> afterward. When exercise becomes a cherished part of your day, it\u2019s easier to stick with it long-term.<\/p>\n There\u2019s nothing more motivating than seeing how far you\u2019ve come. Tracking your progress\u2014whether through a fitness app, journal, or even a simple checklist\u2014can help you stay accountable and celebrate your wins along the way.<\/p>\n Make it happen: <\/strong>This doesn\u2019t mean obsessing over numbers or comparing yourself to others. Instead, focus on the things that matter most to you: running a little farther, lifting a bit heavier, or simply feeling more energized throughout the day. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress is a powerful reminder of why you started in the first place.<\/p>\n Starting a workout routine is exciting, but it\u2019s important to remember that your body needs time to adapt. Rest and recovery are just as crucial as the workouts themselves. If you\u2019re feeling tired or sore, give yourself permission to take a rest day or opt for a gentler form of movement like stretching or walking.<\/p>\n Make it happen: <\/strong>Being flexible also means adjusting your routine as your needs change. Some weeks, you might feel motivated to work out five times\u2014other weeks, twice might be plenty. And that\u2019s okay. Listening to your body and honoring what it needs will help you stay consistent and avoid burnout in the long run.<\/p>\n Every fitness journey thrives with the right support\u2014whether it\u2019s the encouragement of friends, a local community, or an inspiring online space. Finding programs that align with your goals and values can make all the difference in building a sustainable routine. Ahead are some of our favorite workout programs that empower you to move intentionally, connect with your body, and make fitness an integral part of your lifestyle. From strength and mindfulness to functional movement and breath, there\u2019s something here for everyone.<\/p>\n Barre3<\/strong><\/a>.<\/strong> Barre3 offers a whole-body workout that combines strength, cardio, and mindfulness to leave you feeling balanced and empowered. With in-studio classes, online workouts, and a supportive community, barre3 meets you wherever you are in your fitness journey.<\/p>\n FORM<\/strong><\/a>.<\/strong> FORM redefines Pilates for the modern fitness enthusiast, offering dynamic, guided workouts designed to strengthen and align your body. With personalized programs and a focus on intentional movement, it\u2019s the perfect way to build a sustainable routine that meets you where you are.<\/p>\n\n
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<\/figure>\n1. Start Small and Set Realistic Goals<\/h2>\n
2. Find Movement You Actually Enjoy<\/h2>\n
3. Make It a Ritual, Not a Task<\/h2>\n
4. Track Your Progress (and Celebrate It!)<\/h2>\n
5. Listen to Your Body and Be Flexible<\/h2>\n
Workout Programs We Love<\/h2>\n