Starting a new workout routine can be daunting and exciting at the same time. If you’ve decided to take the plunge and improve your fitness, then congratulations! You’re about to embark on a very important journey, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. Choosing the right exercise routine is a deeply personal decision and you’ll have to take into consideration both your goals and what your body can accomplish. There are lots of accessories and equipment that can make working out a better experience, so have a read of this blog to see which pieces would be a good fit in your new training programme.
Injury prevention
When you’re just starting out you can be more prone to slipping up and injuring yourself. Most of these injuries won’t be serious, but a small sprain or overexerted muscle can be painful and mean you have to rest up. Make sure you have some extra support while working out by using something like kinesthetic tape or a knee brace. Identify parts of your body that are weaker or more prone to becoming strained and do everything you can to protect them.
Light weights
Choosing the heaviest weights might seem like the best way to accelerate your progress, but it’s actually much better to start with weights that you’re comfortable with. Pick out lighter weights while you get used to exercises and perfect your form. You’re less likely to injure yourself with 2kg weights, so get to grips with safe movements before upping your load.
Exercise mat
If you’re only going to buy one thing on this list let it be this one. An exercise mat will offer you a great deal of cushioning and stability during your routine. Not only will your body feel more comfortable but you’ll be protecting your floors as well. If you’re someone who likes to work out in the great outdoors, a mat gives you a stable and clean surface no matter where you are. There are lots of different types of mats available, so make sure you shop around before choosing one.
Foam roller
Beginners are more likely to experience muscle soreness when first starting out. This can be off-putting and may mean that you delay your workouts until most of the pain has dissipated. A foam roller can help to reduce your discomfort. Available in different sizes, foam rollers are a way of massaging your body after working out to relax your muscles. Some people even use them as part of their warm-up to release tension.
Comfortable clothes
You don’t have to invest in expensive gym clothes if you don’t want to. Working out shouldn’t be expensive, but if you don’t have comfortable clothes to move in then exercising is going to be difficult. If you’re on a budget pick out some leggings or sweatpants and a T-shirt that allow for a complete range of motion. Adjust your clothes to suit the time of year so that you don’t overheat in summer or get too chilly in winter.
