Start Where You Are: How to Begin Your Fitness Journey
Maybe it’s been a while since your last workout. Or maybe you’ve never quite gotten started, but now you’re ready to take that first step — towards better fitness, more energy, and a healthier, stronger you.
If you’re wondering where do I start with fitness? the answer is simple: start where you are.
My Fitness Journey After Kids
For me, the gap was about two children long.
I had my first son just before my 36th birthday, and my second at 39. Before pregnancy I exercised semi-regularly, but aside from walking, I didn’t do much during those years.
After baby number two, I stopped altogether. By the time my youngest was 18 months, I felt tired, heavy, sore in places I’d never experienced before, and my mood was low.
I knew something had to change.
How I Got Started Again
My first step was simple: I found a free local fitness class and committed to showing up once a week. That grew into twice a week, then some training at home. The aches faded. I started moving better, my energy improved, and my mood lifted.
After six months, my motivation dipped, so I joined a fitness facility for accountability. Eventually, I found my current training home, where I also now coach. Along the way I gained strength, confidence, and shed 15 kilos.
Today: What Fitness Looks Like Now
These days, training is an anchor in my life. I lift weights four days a week, I run once or twice a week, and I walk most Sundays.
If you’d told me years ago that I’d be training six days a week, lifting heavy in the gym, and running regularly, I would have laughed. Back then, all I wanted was to feel better and have more energy for my family.
But that’s the beauty of starting small — one step can lead you somewhere you never imagined.
Tips to Start Your Fitness Journey
If you’re ready to start exercising but don’t know where to begin, here are some simple, practical tips:
Choose something enjoyable. Start with a 10–20 minute walk a few times a week or a class you’ve always wanted to try (salsa, yoga, boxing).
Progress gradually. Once walking feels easy, add bodyweight moves like squats or push-ups. Not sure how? Ask a trainer or a fitness-savvy friend.
Explore different options. Try swimming at the beach or pool. Join adult swim lessons or a masters group for camaraderie and support. (When I was pregnant, I swam in the slow lane and was overtaken by everyone — but I kept going and laughed at my pace.)
Stay flexible. If you stop enjoying something, change it up. The best exercise is the one you’ll stick with.
Final thoughts: Just Start
It doesn’t matter how small the step is — what matters is that you take it.
This isn’t about quick fixes or fitness fads. It’s about building a lifelong love of movement, health, and wellbeing.
So take that short bush walk, join the dance class, or pick up your first dumbbell. You never know where it could lead.
And if you’re ready to start your fitness journey and want support, I’d love to help.
Written by: Ivonne Canales
