Don’t Let That Stop You!

Getting started can be the toughest part of getting in shape. To make it easier, use these tips from Idalis Velazquez, a personal trainer and owner of IV Fitness in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Brett Hoebel, a celebrity trainer on The Biggest Loser Season 11.

Challenge: I need to lose a significant amount of weight, but I’m overwhelmed
Solution: “Set small goals,” Velazquez says. “Instead of trying to lose 50 pounds, reset that goal to losing those first 10 pounds. Also, setting performance-related goals, like doing 10 push-ups, will help you stay motivated. Focus on the improvements you can feel yourself making instead of focusing only on the number on the scale.”

Challenge: I exercised, and my knees hurt for days
Solution: “You may be using the wrong form or have very tight muscles, particularly the muscles in the front of your thighs,” Hoebel says. “Proper warm-up, stretches, and technique can help avoid pain. If you have a history of knee problems, talk to your doctor.”

Challenge: I lost a few pounds, but the weight came back even though I was exercising
Solution: “Focus on what you eat because you cannot out-exercise a bad diet,” Hoebel says. “Learning some new healthy recipes to cook for yourself and your family can make the difference.”

Challenge: I tried exercising but couldn’t do it
Solution: “It’s normal to lack self-confidence when starting to exercise,” Velazquez says. “It can feel too hard. Working out is supposed to feel challenging. The goal is to make your body stronger and to improve with each workout by aiming to do more than you did last time. So don’t be discouraged if you feel you can’t even complete 5 minutes the first time around. Be patient. You will get better and stronger each day.”