Getting fit can be a big life change, especially if you have never done it before. Even if you are used to a fitness routine, sometimes it can get somewhat boring and you need a change. Here are a few tips for both the beginner and the experienced fitness aficionado who wants to jump-start their fitness routine.

If you want to burn off that excess fat, you should work on doing strength training exercises. Not only will these exercises burn calories while you’re going them, but they’ll build up muscle. The more muscle you have, the more calories you’ll burn at a resting rate. It’s why when you don’t take in enough calories each day, your body starts to burn off your muscle rather than the excess fat. If you’re taking in less calories, your body tries to eliminate what it is using the most.

If you are new to fitness, start slowly. It may be tempting to push yourself beyond your limits, especially with the enthusiasm that comes with beginning a new fitness regime. Pushing yourself too quickly is the fastest way to get yourself injured, as your body is not ready to deal with the added stresses you place on it. Injuries can sideline you from your workout for weeks, so start with small and realistic goals and work up to more demanding workouts.

To prevent injury while lifting weights on a bench, make sure the bench is well-cushioned. When the bench is too hard, it can throw your spine out of alignment as you exercise, which in turn can damage the nerves in your arms. An easy test is to press down on the bench. Being able to feel the wood is a sign you need to move to a different bench.

To help you perform your best during your workout, you need to stay hydrated. Losing even one percent of your body weight through sweat can place added stress to your cardiovascular system. Two hours before working out drink at least 16 ounces of water. During your workout drink five to ten ounces every 15 to 20 minutes. When you are finished with your workout drink at least 16 ounces of water for each pound of weight loss due to sweat.

Increase the effectiveness of your walking workout. Bend your elbows at a 90 degree angle and pump your arms with every step you take. This encourages you to walk faster, increases your heart rate, and can burn 15% more calories than if you keep your arms by your side. Try to walk for at least 30 minutes a day, and you will see the results in no time.

If you are looking to get fit, make a regiment that is both reasonable and productive. For example, expect yourself to go to the gym four days a week, and burn 500 calories each time. In this way you do not over burden yourself, and at the same time, keep on track towards a long term goal.

Anyone taking up a fitness regime knows how important it is to keep going once you’ve started. Use these tips as a foundation for your fitness program. Fitness is great for your entire body and you’ll find that you fall asleep more easily and feel more energetic. Stay fit and you’ll feel better all your life.