The hardest part of working out consistently? Getting started. Once you do, though, you start feeling (and soon, seeing!) the positive impact on your mind and body.
Whatever your age or experience, starting an exercise routine has many benefits, says Kristen McParland, a NASM-certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, and developer of the WH+ Beginner Workout Plan.
Building muscle increases your metabolic rate; your bones, ligaments, and tendons get stronger; your blood pressure and immunity may improve; your brain gets sharper, and you may even live longer.
Here's how to begin, plus key movement patterns you'll want to know...
One of the easiest ways to feel more comfortable during workouts or in the gym is to familiarize yourself with the foundational movement patterns of strength training. These are the main ones you'll want to hit every week: