Where to Start
Once you know you’re ready to start an exercise regime think about what you’ll feel most comfortable doing. If you’re not ready to sign up for a gym just yet start small. Walking is an excellent low impact way to become active and start losing weight. Walking everyday can make a huge difference on your fitness level if you’ve not done anything previously. The best part is that it’s accessible to anyone and can be done in your own time.

Once you feel more confident the next step may be trying some fitness videos at home. Start with ones for beginners and work your up to more advanced workouts. At home workouts are great because they are inexpensive and you don’t have to go anywhere to do them. Plus in the beginning you may feel uncoordinated so doing at home videos means no one will see you. Before long you’ll start getting the hang of things, the weight will be coming off and you’ll feel more confident with your ability.

Off to the Gym
Once you’re ready to try a gym shop around first. If you’re intimidated before you even start you’ll never go. There are many options out there, from women’s only, to private studios, to all inclusive clubs or weight loss clinics. Find the one that’s most suitable for you. Try to focus on the experience at the club and not the price. If the price is cheap but you never go then it’s not a good economical choice.

Join with a friend for added motivation and to help you settle in. You’ll be more comfortable when you first start if you know someone else there. When starting out it is always recommended to book in with a personal trainer for at least a few sessions. This will be an additional cost but the benefits are worth it. The trainer will give you a program to follow, show you proper technique and will give you a starting point. Sometimes the biggest fear is what to do once you get there. A trainer will explain what each machine does and will show you how to use them. Most important they will ask about you own personal goals and develop a program most suitable to you.

Before You Start
There may be other problems or illnesses associated with your weight so make sure you see your doctor before starting any exercise program. They will be able to tell you if you are at risk for other ailments and if there are any activities that you should avoid. Another thing to consider before you start is what you enjoy. Maybe the traditional form of exercise isn’t for you. Logging hours on a treadmill isn’t your only option. Joining a team or taking up an active hobby are other great ways to get moving. Don’t forget to consider other fitness goals like strength, flexibility and muscle endurance. Building muscle will actually help you lose fat as it increases you metabolism which means you burn more calories throughout the day.