How to Find a Workout That Works for You

When we’re looking to make a healthy change but not sure where to start, we often take cues from what other people are doing – we think that if it worked for them, maybe it will work for us. While looking at other people’s successes can be a good way to get motivated, it can also be overwhelming and confusing because there are so many different approaches to exercise – how do you know which is right for you?

In my experience, the best plan is a personalized plan.

That might sound intimidating, but creating your own plan is simpler than it may sound. There are three basic components to an effective exercise routine: activities that increase heart rate, strength training to build muscle, and down time to rest your body.
To create your personal plan, simply choose activities that satisfy each of the three areas. And, most importantly, for each activity that you try, ask yourself two questions:

• Do you enjoy it?
• Does it make your body feel good?

It’s important to avoid exercise that you feel like you should be doing but you hate it. There are so many formats and modes out there to choose from, so you might as well pick the ones that make you feel energized, strong, and excited to come back.
Here are the building blocks of an effective fitness routine and some specific activities that you may want to incorporate:
Heart-pumping activity – 150 minutes each week. If you work out 5 times each week, each session should be 30 minutes. You don’t necessarily have to go full-throttle cardio; the aim is to elevate your heart rate and make you break a sweat (but you shouldn’t feel totally winded afterwards).

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