It can be overwhelming to start a new fitness program. It’s difficult to know where to start with so many different exercises and programs available. Focus on easy, accessible exercises that will help you build strength, endurance, and flexibility. You can perform these beginner-friendly workouts anywhere, without fancy equipment or a membership to a gym. This guide will take you through five basic exercises for beginners. These moves are perfect for anyone who wants to start a healthier lifestyle or lay the foundation for advanced workouts.
Walking
As a beginner, walking is the easiest and most effective exercise you can do. This low-impact exercise improves your cardiovascular health, strengthens the legs, and boosts mood. It requires no equipment or prior experience other than comfortable shoes.
Start by taking short walks in your neighbourhood or home. You can aim for 15 to 20 minute walks at a pace that is comfortable for you. As your stamina increases, you can increase the distance, duration, and speed. You can also use walking to clear your head, explore the outdoors, and maintain a regular physical activity. Walking is a great way to build an active lifestyle, whether you are walking in the park or on your way to work.
Squats
The squat is a powerful exercise that targets many muscle groups, including the legs, glutes, and core. Squats are a powerful exercise that targets multiple muscle groups, including your legs, glutes, and core. Squats are easy to do at home and don’t require any equipment.
Standing with your toes pointing slightly outward, your feet should be shoulder-width apart. As if you were about to sit down on a chair and keep your back straight, lower your body while keeping your weight in the heels. Reduce your body until your thighs reach parallel to the ground, and then return to standing. Focus on form over speed when you begin with 8-10 sets of squats. As you become more comfortable with the exercise, you can add weights or increase the repetitions.
Push-Ups
The push-up is a bodyweight exercise that strengthens the arms, chest, and shoulders. Although they may seem intimidating to beginners, pushups can easily be modified for any fitness level. These are extremely versatile and can be performed almost anywhere.
Start with knee push-ups if you are new to push-ups. Keep your knees flat on the floor and place your hands slightly wider apart than shoulder width. Lower your chest towards the ground, keeping your back straight. As you gain strength, progress gradually to push-ups. Consistency is the key. Start with a few reps a day, and increase them by one or even two per week. Push-ups improve upper body strength and posture, as well as overall fitness.
Plank
Planks are one of the most effective exercises for activating your core muscles and improving stability. This isometric exercise, unlike crunches and sit-ups, strengthens your entire back, including your shoulders, core, and spine, without requiring you to move.
Place your forearms flat on the floor with your elbows under your shoulders. Balance on your balls of feet and extend your legs straight forward. From head to heels, your body should be in a straight line. Hold the position as long as possible while maintaining proper form. Beginners should aim to hold a plank position for 10-20 seconds. As your strength increases, you can increase the duration. Planks help to develop a strong core that is necessary for all other exercises and everyday movements.
Glute Bridges
The glute bridge is a great exercise to activate and strengthen your glutes, lower back, and hamstrings. This exercise is great for beginners, as it’s low-impact and easy to adapt.
For a glutebridge, lie flat on your back, with your feet hip-width apart, your knees bent. For stability, place your arms at your side. Lift your hips up toward the ceiling by pressing your heels. Your body should form a straight line between your shoulders and your knees. Slowly lower your legs back to the ground. Focus on controlled movements and squeeze your glutes as you perform 12 to 15 repetitions over 2 to 3 sets. The glute bridges will not only improve your posture but also tone the posterior chain.
Build Confidence on Your Fitness Journey
Beginners may feel intimidated by the idea of starting an exercise program. However, adding simple and effective exercises like planks and glute bridges can help build confidence. These exercises will improve your overall health, strength, and endurance.
At this stage, consistency is more crucial than intensity. As your fitness increases, increase the volume of each exercise. Listen to your body. Rest when needed and celebrate each milestone. These beginner-friendly workouts will set you up for success. Take the first step towards a stronger, healthier you by putting on your shoes and rolling out your mat.
FAQs
1. How often should beginners work out?
Beginners should strive for three to four sessions of exercise per week. Consistency is more important than intensity. Include rest days for your body to recuperate.
2. What if these exercises are too difficult for me?
Yes! Yes! You can begin with knee pushups rather than standard pushups. It’s important to start with a version that you are comfortable with.
3. What equipment do I need to perform these exercises?
Not at all. These exercises are perfect for home workouts because they can all be performed with your own body weight.
4. How long should I do these basic movements before moving on to more advanced ones?
Continue to do these exercises until your confidence in your form is high and you have developed strength and endurance. It could take you anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months depending on how fast you progress.
