Exercise: How to (Re)Start the Habit

If you've ever Googled "How to start working out" and quickly abandoned the page, this episode is for you. Starting — or restarting — exercise can be as challenging mentally as it is physically. Our body and fitness levels may be different from what they were the last time we worked out regularly, and our goals may have changed, too. Instead of chasing the current trends in toned physiques, we may want to focus on working out for our overall health and longevity. Whether you're an absolute beginner or a seasoned pro who's been inactive for some time (who's counting?), we're sharing how to start a new workout routine and overcome the barriers to exercise that can help you make fitness a lasting habit.

Expert: Dr. Dominisha Felder, Doctor of Physical Therapy

Interviewer: Kim Rivera Huston-Weber

Notable topics covered:

• The absolute first step to make if you want to start (or restart) exercise
• Should your exercise goals be outcome- or process-driven? 
• How to get started without overdoing it and causing injury
• Things to consider before starting an exercise plan if you’re living with a health condition or coming back from an injury or pregnancy 
• What we can expect our bodies to feel like as we start moving regularly
• The importance of rest in a consistent routine
• Tips for addressing obstacles to exercise
• How to be mentally disciplined to exercise during every era of your life

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Chapters

• 0:00 Host introduction
• 3:12 The absolute first step if you want to start exercising
• 4:34 How we should think about exercise goals
• 5:53 Injury prevention and how to listen to your body when beginning exercise
• 9:02 What to consider before starting an exercise plan if you’re living with a health condition, coming back from an injury or pregnancy
• 10:28 Cardio vs. strength training: How should we plan our workouts?
• 12:44 What is the normal amount of discomfort after exercise, and when do you need care?
• 16:08 The role rest plays in an exercise routine
• 20:42 Advice for getting past common barriers to exercise — whether it’s time
• 31:51 How to motivate yourself to stay active for life
• 40:38 Host wrap-up