Four Factors When Choosing an Exercise Program

Four Factors When Choosing an Exercise Program

Sometimes it can be a daunting task figuring out where to start. So here are four things I recommend you evaluate based on what's best for YOU, not what's best for your friend, your family member, or anyone else. I want you to find the best program for you.

These are in no specific order.

1. Identify Your Goals

Perhaps your goal is weight loss. Maybe you actually need a nutritionist, not an exercise program. Maybe your goal is strength training. Maybe your goal is cardio and improving your lungs. Maybe you have a specific goal set by your doctor.

Whatever those goals are, make sure you identify them and find a program that can accomplish them.

2. Online or In Person?

Figure out if you want to do something online or in person. They both have benefits, but it has to be right for you.

Some people thrive and need a social network and want to feel the buzz of a gym. There's nothing wrong with that! That's what gets them moving. Some people also like to get out of their house and want to go somewhere. That's all great.

Some people, on the other hand, want to work out in the privacy of their house. They also want to save time on driving, commuting, and finding parking.

There are advantages to both. Find what works best for you.

3. Make Sure It's Fun!

I think fun is a huge part of exercise.

You could find a program that accomplishes all your goals, but if you don't like it and you dread it, you will not do it.

I've seen it over and over again. It could be the best program, but if you dread it, you're not going to do it, or you're going to do it halfway and potentially get hurt.

Exercise should be fun. It should be something you look forward to.

And if you're doing something in a group setting, there could even be contests and challenges to help motivate you and make the experience more enjoyable.

4. Accountability

This is a big one when it comes to things in life in general, and especially exercise.

People need to be held accountable. They want to know that someone is there with them, watching them, asking them, "Did you do it?" Following up with them. Pushing them.

Accountability could be done through an automated system, a coach, a friend, or a trainer. There are many ways to make it happen.

The bottom line: Don't choose an exercise program just because someone else likes it. Find the one that works best for YOU, your goals, your lifestyle, and your personality.