Plenty of people decide at one point or another that it is time for them to start taking their health and fitness more seriously. When this happens, they may choose to improve their dietary choices, or engage in more regular physical activity, however, preferably, they will consider engaging in both. Whether you have been working out for two months or two decades, the chances are that you could be making a few mistakes that are stopping you from getting the most out of your results. When you’re starting off with any exercise program, remember to pace yourself, and be aware of what you’re doing, especially if you’re not a very active person in the first place.

1. Start Slow

If you have no experience with fitness or exercise whatsoever, it’s important to remember that you’re going to have to take things one step at a time. You can’t simply jump in and begin exercising seven days a week, otherwise you’ll be setting yourself up for disaster. Instead, work up gradually towards exercising a number of days a week, checking on how your body responds.

2. Make sure you Stretch

Warming up before you start exercising is vital to ensure that you don’t run the risk of any unnecessary injuries. After you have warmed up sufficiently, try stretching your muscles and holding that stretch for about fifteen seconds. You’re less likely to feel the pain of a stretch if you’re already a little warmed up to begin with.

3. Look for Variety

Whether you’re hoping to lose weight or improve your muscles, a mixed regimen including strength and aerobic training is generally the best way to get your ideal body. What’s more, if you stick to the same exercise every day, you’re going to hit a point where it gets boring and you don’t look forward to it anymore. Engage in different sports and look for things that you enjoy.

4. Know how to Use Weights

Most people struggle with weights when they first walk into a gym, yet they’re afraid of asking for advice. However, by law, gyms are required to have people on staff that will be able to show you how a machine works, thereby saving you from hurting yourself. In addition, make sure that you don’t make the rookie mistake of selecting the heaviest possible weight as soon as you start lifting.

5. Take Breaks Regularly

When people first get started with a new fitness regime, it can be easy to get over-enthusiastic and try to hit the gym every single day. However, if you don’t let your body rest, you could be doing more damage than good. It’s perfectly normal, and even good to feel a little bit sore after you’ve had a hard workout, but you shouldn’t be in agony. Be careful about how far you choose to push yourself, and try to avoid taking painkillers once you get back from the gym if you’re feeling a little rough. Taking pills can mask your pain and push you to go further, therefore doing serious damage to your body.