How Do I Decide What to Workout? A Comprehensive Guide to Finding the Right Exercise Routine for You

Are you tired of the same old workout routine? Are you unsure of what exercises to do to achieve your fitness goals? Then you’ve come to the right place! This guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how to decide what to workout, and help you find the right exercise routine for you. We’ll explore different factors to consider when choosing exercises, such as your fitness level, goals, and preferences. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, this guide will help you create a workout plan that is tailored to your needs and preferences. Let’s get started!

Determine Your Fitness Goals

Set Realistic Goals

When setting your fitness goals, it is important to be realistic. Setting unrealistic goals can lead to disappointment and discouragement, which can ultimately lead to giving up on your fitness journey. Here are some tips for setting realistic goals:

• Define what you want to achieve: Be specific about what you want to achieve. Do you want to lose weight, build muscle, or improve your overall health? Having a clear idea of what you want to achieve will help you create a plan to reach your goals.
• Be specific and measurable: It’s important to make your goals specific and measurable. Instead of saying “I want to get in shape,” say “I want to lose 10 pounds in the next three months.” This way, you have a clear goal that you can track your progress towards.
• Include a timeframe: Setting a timeframe for your goals will help you stay motivated and on track. Give yourself a deadline for when you want to achieve your goals. This will help you stay focused and make progress towards your goals.

Remember, setting realistic goals is important for creating a sustainable and enjoyable fitness routine. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting goals that are too difficult to achieve. Instead, create a plan that is achievable and will help you make progress towards your fitness goals.

Choose a Primary Focus

When determining your fitness goals, it is important to choose a primary focus that will guide your exercise routine. This primary focus will be the main area of your fitness goals that you will prioritize and work towards achieving.

There are several primary focus areas to choose from, each with its own unique benefits and goals. Here are some of the most common primary focus areas:

• Cardiovascular endurance: This primary focus is all about improving your heart health and endurance. Activities such as running, cycling, or swimming can help improve cardiovascular endurance.
• Strength and muscle mass: This primary focus is all about building muscle and increasing your overall strength. Activities such as weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, or resistance training can help achieve this goal.
• Flexibility and mobility: This primary focus is all about improving your range of motion and flexibility. Activities such as yoga, Pilates, or stretching can help improve flexibility and mobility.
• Balance and coordination: This primary focus is all about improving your balance and coordination. Activities such as tai chi, balance exercises, or activities that require stability can help improve balance and coordination.
• Body composition: This primary focus is all about improving the composition of your body. This can include losing weight, building muscle, or improving body shape. Activities such as circuit training, HIIT, or bodyweight exercises can help achieve this goal.

It is important to choose a primary focus that aligns with your personal goals and interests. You may find that a combination of primary focus areas works best for you, but it is important to prioritize one area as your main focus to ensure that you are making progress towards your fitness goals.

Balance Your Workouts

When creating an exercise routine, it’s important to balance your workouts. This means incorporating a variety of exercises, mixing high-intensity and low-intensity workouts, and adding core and functional training.

Incorporate a Variety of Exercises

Including a variety of exercises is key to achieving a balanced workout routine. This means incorporating strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and flexibility training into your routine.

• Strength Training: Building muscle through strength training is important for maintaining a healthy body. This can include weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, or resistance band exercises.
• Cardiovascular Exercise: Cardiovascular exercise is important for improving cardiovascular health and burning calories. This can include activities such as running, cycling, or swimming.
• Flexibility Training: Flexibility training is important for maintaining mobility and preventing injury. This can include stretching, yoga, or Pilates.

*Mix High-Intensity and Low-Intensity Workouts*

Mixing high-intensity and low-intensity workouts is important for achieving a balanced workout routine. High-intensity workouts are more intense and can be done for shorter periods of time, while low-intensity workouts are less intense and can be done for longer periods of time.

• High-Intensity Workouts: High-intensity workouts include activities such as interval training, sprinting, or circuit training. These workouts are intense and can be done for shorter periods of time.
• Low-Intensity Workouts: Low-intensity workouts include activities such as jogging, cycling, or swimming. These workouts are less intense and can be done for longer periods of time.

Add Core and Functional Training

Adding core and functional training to your routine is important for improving overall fitness and reducing the risk of injury.

• Core Training: Core training includes exercises that target the muscles in your abdomen and lower back. This can include planks, crunches, or Russian twists.
• Functional Training: Functional training includes exercises that target the muscles used in everyday activities. This can include exercises such as squats, lunges, or deadlifts.

By incorporating a variety of exercises, mixing high-intensity and low-intensity workouts, and adding core and functional training to your routine, you can achieve a balanced workout routine that will help you reach your fitness goals.

Evaluate Your Current Fitness Level

Assess Your Physical Abilities

• Aerobic capacity:
  • Aerobic capacity refers to the ability of your body to transport oxygen to your muscles during physical activity.
  • This can be assessed through a VO2 max test, which measures the maximum amount of oxygen you can consume during exercise.
  • To improve aerobic capacity, it is recommended to engage in activities such as running, cycling, or swimming for at least 30 minutes per session, at least three times per week.
• Strength and muscle endurance:
  • Strength and muscle endurance refer to the ability of your muscles to perform physical tasks.
  • This can be assessed through a one-repetition maximum (1RM) test, which measures the maximum weight you can lift for a single repetition.
  • To improve strength and muscle endurance, it is recommended to engage in activities such as weightlifting, resistance training, or bodyweight exercises for at least 30 minutes per session, at least two times per week.
• Flexibility and mobility:
  • Flexibility and mobility refer to the range of motion of your joints and muscles.
  • This can be assessed through a sit-and-reach test, which measures the distance you can reach forward while seated.
  • To improve flexibility and mobility, it is recommended to engage in activities such as yoga, Pilates, or stretching for at least 15 minutes per session, at least two times per week.
• Balance and coordination:
  • Balance and coordination refer to the ability of your body to maintain stability and control during physical activity.
  • This can be assessed through a balance test, which measures the ability to maintain stability on one foot or on a narrow surface.
  • To improve balance and coordination, it is recommended to engage in activities such as tai chi, balance exercises, or standing on an unstable surface for at least 15 minutes per session, at least two times per week.

Consult with a Fitness Professional

• Get a personalized fitness assessment
• Develop a customized workout plan
• Get guidance on proper form and technique

When it comes to determining the right exercise routine for you, consulting with a fitness professional is an essential step. Here’s why:

• Get a personalized fitness assessment: A fitness professional can evaluate your current fitness level, take into account any injuries or health conditions you may have, and create a personalized fitness assessment just for you. This assessment will take into account your goals, current fitness level, and any limitations you may have, and will help you create a workout plan that is tailored to your needs.
• Develop a customized workout plan: Based on your fitness assessment, a fitness professional can help you develop a customized workout plan that is designed specifically for you. This plan will take into account your goals, current fitness level, and any limitations you may have, and will help you make progress towards your fitness goals in a safe and effective way.
• Get guidance on proper form and technique: A fitness professional can also provide guidance on proper form and technique for your workouts. This is especially important if you are new to exercise or if you are working with weights or other equipment. Proper form and technique can help you avoid injury and get the most out of your workouts.

Overall, consulting with a fitness professional is a valuable investment in your health and fitness. They can help you evaluate your current fitness level, develop a customized workout plan, and provide guidance on proper form and technique, all of which can help you achieve your fitness goals in a safe and effective way.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Availability of Time and Resources

• Determine how much time you have available for exercise each week
• Consider any limitations, such as work or family commitments
• Identify any resources you have access to, such as gym memberships or personal trainers

Access to Fitness Facilities or Equipment

• Consider your proximity to fitness facilities or equipment
• Assess the cost of any necessary equipment or memberships
• Research alternative options, such as outdoor exercise or bodyweight exercises

Personal Preferences and Interests

• Identify any specific activities or types of exercise that interest you
• Consider any previous experience or knowledge you have in a particular sport or activity
• Seek recommendations from friends or family members who have similar interests

Overall, considering your lifestyle is a crucial step in determining the right exercise routine for you. By evaluating your availability of time and resources, access to fitness facilities or equipment, and personal preferences and interests, you can narrow down your options and find an exercise routine that fits seamlessly into your daily life.

Research Different Workout Programs

Online Resources

There are numerous online resources available for researching different workout programs. Here are some of the most useful options:

• Fitness websites and blogs: There are many websites and blogs dedicated to fitness that provide information on various workout programs. These sites often feature articles, videos, and podcasts that offer insights into different workout routines, along with tips on how to get started and stay motivated. Some popular fitness websites and blogs include Bodybuilding.com, Men’s Health, and Women’s Health.
• Social media groups and forums: Social media platforms such as Facebook and Reddit have numerous fitness-related groups and forums where people share their workout routines, ask questions, and offer advice. These communities can be a great resource for finding new workout ideas and getting feedback from others who are also interested in fitness. Some popular fitness-related groups on Facebook include Fitness Blonde and Fitness Motivation & Inspiration.
• Online fitness communities: There are also online communities specifically dedicated to fitness, such as BodySpace, which is a community of over 1 million fitness enthusiasts. These communities often have forums where people can ask questions and share their workout routines, as well as photo galleries where users can show off their progress. Online fitness communities can be a great way to connect with others who share your fitness goals and get inspired by their success.

Books and Magazines

Fitness and Health Books

Fitness and health books are an excellent resource for learning about different workout programs and finding the right one for you. These books often provide detailed information on various exercises, as well as advice on how to design a workout routine that fits your goals and lifestyle. They may also include meal plans and nutrition advice to help you achieve your fitness goals. Some popular fitness and health books include “The New Rules of Lifting” by Lou Schuler, Alwyn Cosgrove, and John Kiel, and “Thinner Leaner Stronger” by Steve Santich.

Magazines and Publications

Magazines and publications are another great resource for learning about different workout programs. They often feature articles on the latest trends in fitness and exercise, as well as interviews with experts in the field. Many magazines also include workout routines and meal plans that you can use as a starting point for your own exercise program. Some popular magazines that focus on fitness and exercise include “Men’s Health,” “Women’s Health,” and “Fitness.”

Exercise and Fitness Manuals

Exercise and fitness manuals are detailed guides that provide information on specific exercises and workout programs. These manuals often include step-by-step instructions for performing exercises, as well as advice on how to modify exercises to fit your fitness level and goals. They may also include information on the benefits and risks of different exercises, as well as tips for avoiding injury. Some popular exercise and fitness manuals include “The Complete Guide to Home Workouts” by Jason Ferruggia and “The Muscle Book” by Craig Ballantyne.

Fitness Professionals

When researching different workout programs, it’s important to consider the advice and guidance of fitness professionals. Personal trainers, coaches, and group fitness instructors are all knowledgeable and experienced in helping individuals develop effective exercise routines. Here are some key things to consider when seeking guidance from fitness professionals:

• Personal Trainers and Coaches: These professionals typically work one-on-one with clients to develop customized exercise programs based on their individual goals, fitness levels, and needs. They can provide personalized feedback, demonstrate proper form and technique, and offer motivation and accountability. When considering a personal trainer or coach, it’s important to look for someone who is certified, experienced, and has a good understanding of your specific goals and needs.
• Group Fitness Instructors: Group fitness classes are a great way to get a fun and effective workout while also socializing and getting support from others. Group fitness instructors specialize in leading classes and providing modifications and variations for different fitness levels. When choosing a group fitness class, consider the type of workout you’re looking for, the fitness level of the class, and the personality and teaching style of the instructor.
• Sports Coaches and Specialists: If you have a specific sport or activity in mind, such as running, cycling, or yoga, it may be helpful to consult with a sports coach or specialist. These professionals can provide guidance on training programs, technique, and equipment, and can help you avoid common injuries and pitfalls. When selecting a sports coach or specialist, look for someone who has experience and expertise in your specific sport or activity, and who understands your goals and needs.

Consider Your Budget

When researching different workout programs, it’s important to consider your budget. The cost of equipment and accessories, gym memberships and class fees, and personal training sessions can all add up and affect your decision on what program to choose.

Here are some factors to consider when evaluating the cost of different workout programs:

• Cost of equipment and accessories: Some workout programs require specific equipment, such as weights or a treadmill, which can be expensive to purchase. Consider whether you already have the necessary equipment or if you need to invest in new equipment.
• Gym memberships and class fees: If you plan on working out at a gym, you’ll need to factor in the cost of a membership and any additional fees for classes or personal training sessions. Some gyms offer discounted rates for students or seniors, so be sure to ask about any special deals.
• Cost of personal training sessions: If you’re interested in working with a personal trainer, you’ll need to budget for the cost of these sessions. Personal training sessions can range from $50 to $200 per session, depending on the trainer’s experience and qualifications.

Overall, it’s important to consider your budget when researching different workout programs. While some programs may be more expensive upfront, they may offer better results in the long run. Take the time to evaluate your financial situation and make a plan that works for you.

Try Different Workouts

Start Slowly

When it comes to finding the right exercise routine, it’s important to start slowly. This is especially true if you’re new to working out or haven’t exercised in a while. Here are some tips for starting slowly:

• Gradually increase intensity and duration: When starting a new workout routine, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts over time. This will help your body adjust to the new physical demands and reduce the risk of injury.
• Start with beginner-friendly workouts: Look for beginner-friendly workouts that are designed for people who are new to exercise. These workouts typically have lower intensity and are easier to follow. They can be a great way to get started and build confidence before trying more challenging workouts.
• Progress gradually over time: As you get stronger and more comfortable with your workouts, gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. This will help you continue to make progress and avoid plateaus. Be patient and don’t try to do too much too soon. Remember, progress takes time and consistency is key.

Be Consistent

When it comes to finding the right exercise routine, consistency is key. By setting a regular schedule and making exercise a habit, you will be more likely to stick with your workout plan in the long run. Here are some tips to help you stay consistent:

• Set a regular schedule: One of the most important things you can do to be consistent with your workouts is to set a regular schedule. Decide on specific days and times that you will exercise, and stick to that schedule as much as possible. This will help you create a routine and make exercise a regular part of your life.
• Make exercise a habit: In order to be consistent with your workouts, it’s important to make exercise a habit. This means that you should try to exercise at the same time every day, and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine. Over time, this will become second nature and you will be more likely to stick with your workout plan.
• Find a workout buddy or accountability partner: Having a workout buddy or accountability partner can be a great way to stay consistent with your exercises. When you have someone to exercise with, you are more likely to show up and stick with your plan. Additionally, having someone to hold you accountable can help you stay motivated and on track.

Experiment with Different Formats

Trying out different workout formats is a great way to discover what kind of exercise routine works best for you. Here are some options to consider:

• Group fitness classes: These are classes that are led by an instructor and typically take place in a group setting. Some popular types of group fitness classes include yoga, Pilates, spinning, and dance fitness. The benefit of group classes is that they provide a sense of community and motivation, as well as a structured workout routine. However, they can also be expensive and may not fit into everyone’s schedule.
• Home workout programs: These are workout programs that you can do at home, without the need for any special equipment. Some popular options include bodyweight exercises, yoga, and workout videos. The benefit of home workout programs is that they are convenient and can be done at any time. However, they may not provide the same level of motivation and community as group classes.
• Online workout videos and tutorials: These are videos or tutorials that you can access online, which provide instruction on various exercises and workout routines. Some popular options include YouTube workout videos, fitness apps, and online fitness programs. The benefit of online workout videos and tutorials is that they provide a wide variety of options and can be done at any time. However, it can be difficult to ensure proper form and safety without the guidance of a professional instructor.

Overall, experimenting with different workout formats is a great way to find the right exercise routine for you. By trying out different options, you can determine what type of workout you enjoy, what works best for your schedule and budget, and what provides the level of motivation and community that you need to stick with it.

Evaluate and Adjust Your Workout Plan

Track Your Progress

Tracking your progress is an essential part of evaluating and adjusting your workout plan. By monitoring changes in your body composition, measuring improvements in your physical abilities, and recording your workout intensity and duration, you can determine whether your current routine is effective and make necessary adjustments.

Monitor Changes in Body Composition

Monitoring changes in your body composition is an effective way to track your progress. This can include measuring your weight, body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage. It’s important to remember that weight loss or gain may not always be indicative of progress, as muscle mass can fluctuate. Therefore, it’s crucial to measure your body composition to ensure that you’re making progress in the areas that matter most to you.

Measure Improvements in Physical Abilities

Measuring improvements in your physical abilities is another important aspect of tracking your progress. This can include tracking your progress in exercises such as push-ups, squats, and other exercises that target specific muscle groups. By measuring your progress in these exercises, you can determine whether your workout routine is effective in improving your strength and endurance.

Record Your Workout Intensity and Duration

Recording your workout intensity and duration is essential for tracking your progress. This can include tracking the number of sets and reps you perform, the amount of weight you lift, and the duration of your workouts. By recording this information, you can track your progress over time and make adjustments to your workout routine as needed.

In conclusion, tracking your progress is an essential part of evaluating and adjusting your workout plan. By monitoring changes in your body composition, measuring improvements in your physical abilities, and recording your workout intensity and duration, you can determine whether your current routine is effective and make necessary adjustments.

Make Adjustments as Needed

When it comes to creating a workout plan, it’s important to be flexible and make adjustments as needed. This means taking into account your progress, seeking feedback from fitness professionals, and listening to your body.

Adjust your workout plan based on your progress

As you progress through your workout plan, you may find that certain exercises become too easy or too difficult. In these cases, it’s important to adjust your plan accordingly. If an exercise becomes too easy, you can increase the intensity or try a more advanced variation. If an exercise becomes too difficult, you may need to scale back the intensity or try a modified version.

Seek feedback from a fitness professional

Fitness professionals, such as personal trainers or fitness coaches, can provide valuable feedback on your workout plan. They can help you identify areas where you may be struggling and offer suggestions for improvement. They can also help you adjust your plan to ensure that you are challenging yourself enough while also avoiding injury.

Listen to your body and adjust accordingly

Your body will provide you with valuable feedback on what is working and what isn’t. If you find that a particular exercise is causing pain or discomfort, it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your plan accordingly. This may mean skipping that exercise altogether or modifying it in some way.

Overall, making adjustments to your workout plan is an important part of the process. By taking into account your progress, seeking feedback from fitness professionals, and listening to your body, you can create a workout plan that is tailored to your needs and goals.

Stay Motivated

Maintaining motivation is crucial to staying committed to your workout routine. Here are some strategies to help you stay motivated:

• Set new goals and challenges
  • Regularly setting new goals can help you maintain a sense of progress and purpose in your workout routine. Consider setting short-term and long-term goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). This will help you track your progress and stay focused on your fitness journey.
  • Additionally, setting challenges for yourself can add an element of excitement and competition to your workouts. Whether it’s trying a new exercise, increasing the difficulty of a movement, or pushing yourself to work out for a longer period of time, challenges can help you stay engaged and motivated.
• Reward yourself for progress
  • Celebrating small wins along the way can help you stay motivated and incentivize continued progress. Consider treating yourself to something you enjoy, like a massage or a new workout outfit, after hitting a milestone or achieving a goal.
  • Rewards can also come in the form of self-care and relaxation. For example, if you’ve had a particularly tough week of workouts, consider treating yourself to a lazy day or a yoga class to help you recharge and refocus.
• Surround yourself with positive influences and support
  • Surrounding yourself with people who are supportive and positive can help you stay motivated and inspired. Consider joining a fitness community or finding a workout buddy who shares your goals and values.
  • Additionally, seeking out advice and guidance from fitness professionals, such as personal trainers or nutritionists, can help you stay on track and make informed decisions about your workout routine.

By implementing these strategies, you can help maintain your motivation and stay committed to your workout routine over the long term.

FAQs

1. How do I determine my fitness goals?

Your fitness goals will play a significant role in determining what type of exercise routine you should follow. Before starting any workout plan, it’s essential to define your goals, whether it’s to lose weight, build muscle, improve cardiovascular health, or increase flexibility. Once you have identified your goals, you can research different types of exercises that are best suited for achieving those goals.

2. What types of exercises should I include in my workout routine?

The type of exercises you should include in your workout routine will depend on your fitness goals. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, you may want to focus on cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming. If your goal is to build muscle, you may want to incorporate strength training exercises such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises. It’s essential to create a well-rounded workout routine that includes a variety of exercises to ensure that you are targeting all the major muscle groups and achieving your fitness goals.

3. How often should I exercise?

The frequency of your workouts will depend on your fitness goals and your current fitness level. Generally, it’s recommended to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week, along with strength training exercises at least twice a week. However, it’s essential to listen to your body and not overdo it, especially if you are new to exercise. It’s better to start with shorter workout sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you become more comfortable with the exercises.

4. How long should my workout routine be?

The length of your workout routine will depend on your fitness goals and the type of exercises you are doing. For cardio exercises, it’s recommended to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, or 20 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise, such as running or high-intensity interval training (HIIT). For strength training exercises, a full-body workout routine typically lasts between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of exercises and sets you perform. It’s essential to gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts as you become more comfortable with the exercises.

5. Can I do the same workout routine every day?

While it’s important to have a consistent workout routine, it’s also essential to vary your workouts to avoid boredom and prevent overuse injuries. It’s recommended to have at least one rest day between workout sessions to allow your muscles to recover and avoid injury. You can also switch up your workout routine by trying new exercises or changing the order of your exercises to keep things interesting. Additionally, it’s important to listen to your body and take rest days as needed to avoid overtraining.