How to Choose the Right Exercise for Your Fitness Goals

With so many different types of exercise and so many different ways to work out, it can be easy to get confused when deciding on the right one. Does hula-hooping count as exercise? Should jogging on an empty stomach be counted as exercise? If you’re looking to get into shape or improve your fitness level, there’s a good chance that you want to do so without jeopardizing your social life or making yourself miserable for a couple of weeks. The right answer may be a resounding yes — exercising is good for your mental and physical health, and having the appropriate motivation can help you get started even if you feel like your current routine sucks.

Here are some nuggets on choosing the right workout program.

Make it sustainable

Remember that exercise is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. No “perfect” workout or diet, as everybody is different. Don’t just aim for a specific number on the scale, but consider your progress over time. If you’ve focused on lifting weights for a while but only recently started keeping a safe weight for your body, you’re probably not making the most of the benefits. Instead of focusing on a specific number on the scale, consider your progress over time.

If you’ve been lifting weights for a while but only recently started keeping a safe weight for your body, you’re probably not making the most of the benefits. Consider your body composition (fat vs. muscle), intensity, and frequency. You don’t have to run every day, lift heavy weights, or even do cardio for long periods all at the same time. You can find a workout program that’s best for you and makes sense for your schedule, bank account, and health.

Try different exercises

When choosing which exercises to do, consider what you’re already doing. If you already do a certain exercise, adding another type can be harmful. Certain exercises are better suited to certain body types, so think about what type of person you are — will this person be able to do the exercises correctly, and will they be able to do them consistently? If you’re unsure, ask a fitness expert!

Find a fitness buddy.

Buddy-Exercising is a time-honored tradition, dating back to ballroom dancing days. While you shouldn’t buddy-exercise or partner-exercise with your spouse or significant other, you can still pair up with other fitness enthusiasts for quick, low-intensity workouts.

Track your progress and see how you feel

Are you feeling a certain way about a certain workout because you want it? Are you seeing progress? If not, try a different workout or diet program. It can be hard to know if you’re getting the right results until it’s too late. Remember: progress is beautiful, but it only happens when you move forward.

Don’t be afraid to try a little bit of everything.

Not every exercise will work for everyone, and not everyone will be a good fit for your current exercise routine. There’s no sense in trying out something new and getting a ton of pain and discomfort. Instead, experiment with a few different exercises and see what works.

Choose a challenge you can handle

It’s important to remember that you’re working toward a goal and not the other way around. No challenge is too big or too difficult. A challenge that you can handle. One that you can see yourself working toward for a long time.

Exercising is great for mental and physical health, and having the appropriate motivation can help you get started even when your current routine sucks. Get a fitness gym that will perfectly fit your routine.