The hardest part of fitness isn’t the workout — it’s showing up consistently. After 10+ years of training clients, I can tell you that the people who get results aren’t the ones with the “perfect” program. They’re the ones who found a routine they could actually stick to.
Here’s how to build one that works for YOUR life.
Start With Your Schedule, Not a Program
Before you think about exercises, look at your actual week. How many days can you realistically train? Be honest. Three days is better than planning for six and doing two. I’d rather you commit to 3 sessions per week and hit all of them than aim for 6 and burn out in two weeks.
Pick Activities You Don’t Hate
This sounds obvious, but so many people force themselves into workouts they despise. Hate running? Don’t run. There are a hundred ways to get cardio that don’t involve a treadmill. The best exercise is the one you’ll actually do.
Follow a Simple Structure
You don’t need a complicated split routine. For beginners, a full-body workout 3 times per week is incredibly effective. Each session should include:
- A push movement (push-ups, overhead press)
- A pull movement (rows, pull-ups)
- A squat or lunge variation
- A hip hinge (deadlift, hip thrust)
- A core exercise
That’s it. Five exercises, done with good form and progressive effort, will transform your body.
Set Process Goals, Not Just Outcome Goals
Instead of only focusing on “lose 20 pounds,” set process goals: “Train 3 times this week.” “Add 5 pounds to my squat.” “Drink 8 glasses of water today.” Process goals are within your control and they compound into the outcomes you want.
Build in Flexibility
Life is unpredictable. Your routine needs to bend without breaking. If you miss Monday, move it to Tuesday. If you can only do 30 minutes instead of 60, do 30 minutes. A shorter workout always beats no workout.
Get Accountability
This is where having a trainer makes all the difference. When someone is expecting you to show up, you show up. When someone is tracking your progress and adjusting your plan, you stay on course. Accountability is the secret ingredient most people are missing.
Need help building a routine that fits your life? That’s literally what I do. Book a free consultation and let’s create your plan together.
