If you’re thinking about starting a new sport or taking up a new exercise routine but you don’t know where to begin then don’t worry, you have definitely come to the right place. Whether you’re new to sports or you’ve been playing for years, you need to ensure you’re as prepared as you can possibly be when it comes to taking up something new. Luckily, there are lots of questions you can ask to ensure you’re as prepared as you can be. From choosing the right sport to working with a personal trainer, the more you’re planning in advance the better. With that in mind, here are a number of things you may want to consider before starting a new sport or exercise routine:
What Sport Would You Like To Try Out?
One of the first things you need to consider when it comes to starting a new sport or exercise routine is the sport you want to try out. With so many incredible things to choose from, it’s important you’re picking the sport that is perfect for you. Whether that’s something that is low impact or something with a little bit of a challenge for it, the more you’re thinking about what you want to do the better. Some fun ideas you can try include:
Yoga – If you’re looking for something that is low impact but can help strengthen your core, yoga is a great option. Great on your own or in a class, it can also be a great way to meet new people.
Cycling – If you want to start something that is going not only going to help you burn calories but help you get from A to B, cycling is a great choice. Whether you’re using a pushbike or an adventure bike, you may be surprised how much fun it can.
Stand-up Paddleboarding – For those that are looking for a little bit of adventure, stand-up paddleboarding is a great option. Although it can only be done in beachy areas, it’s a great sport to take up if you have the opportunity.
Swimming – Swimming is another low impact sport, however, it can be a great form of cardio if you’re swimming for long periods of time. Depending on whether or not you want to swim competitively, swimming can actually require a lot of time dedicated to training.
Rock Climbing – Again, rock climbing is something for the adventurous type. If you’re looking for something a little bit different, why not head to your local rock climbing facility? Although it can take some time to master, it’s a great way to let off a little steam.
Trampolining – Trampolining is another great sport to take up, especially if you have a background in gymnastics. Although it can be difficult, the rewards are incredible if you decide to compete.
For more inspiration when it comes to fun sports to try, you can visit this site here.
Do You Need To Have Any Specific Training Or Experience?
When you’ve chosen the sport you want to do, you need to think about whether or not you’re going to need any specific training or experience before. For example, if you have zero experience when it comes to sports and fitness, you may not want to take on something that is going to be too difficult. If you want to start small, you can build your way up to something a little more difficult in the future.
Do You Need To Be At A Certain Level Of Fitness First?
Similarly, you need to think about your fitness levels. Although you may have a certain level of experience, it does not necessarily mean you’re fit enough to do absolutely everything as some sports require an extreme level of fitness. If you’re unsure, you may want to speak to a professional in the industry. They will be able to carry out a fitness test to see whether you’re ready and if you’re, they’ll be able to train you.
Is It Worth Hiring A Personal Trainer?
Speaking of training, would you benefit from hiring a personal trainer? Although they may not be able to directly help with the new sport you’re taking up, the will be able to ensure you’re fitness levels are good enough. Whether you hire them for a couple of weeks or you work with them throughout the duration of your training, you may be surprised how much difference it can make to your performance. For a guide to hiring a personal trainer for the first time, you can visit this site here.
Are There Classes In Your Local Area?
If you’re starting a new sport and you’re looking to make friends in the local community at the same time, why not see if there are any classes in your local area? Although it will depend on the amount of interest in the sport you’re starting, having a group of people all learning at the same time can be a great motivator. If you can’t find a class in your local area, you may need to search further afield. In some cases, you may be able to find a retreat or crash course that will teach you everything you need to know.
If there is not a class in your area but your skills start to improve, you may want to consider setting up a group for people who are also interested in the same sport. Although it won’t be the same as attending classes, it would be beneficial to meet and trade tactics.
Do You Need To Buy Any Specialist Equipment To Get Started?
Another important thing to consider when it comes to starting a new sport or exercise routine is whether or not you need to buy any specialist equipment to get started. From clothing to tools, you may be surprised how much you actually have to buy when you start something new. If you’re unsure, it might be best to head to your local sportswear store as chances are, they’ll know exactly what you need.
Do You Have A Friend Or Family Member Who Wants To Go With You?
If you don’t want to start your new adventure on your own, you might want to find a friend or family member who will want to go with you. Although it may be difficult at first, as soon as they start seeing you have fun they’ll want to join you too.
Do You Need To Consider Your Health?
Although it may not be the first thing on your mind, you also need to think about your health. Whether you’re in good health or you have a number of different conditions you need to consider, it’s important you’re thinking about how starting a new sport can affect your body. If you know you’re going to struggle, you may want to speak to a chiropractor or a physiotherapist first. They will be able to offer you the best possible advice when it comes to looking after your health during exercise.
Is It A Sport You Can Compete In?
If you’re serious about the new sport you’re starting, you might want to consider competing in it once you’ve had enough training. Although it may not be for a few years, it’s definitely worth thinking about in the early days of your training. The sooner you get started, the better.
How Often Do You Want To Play Or Train?
Another important thing to consider when it comes to starting a new sport or exercise routine is how often you want to train. Although you may want to do it every day, your schedule probably won’t allow for it. Think about what time you have spare and realistically plan the best days for you to start training. You can always increase or decrease it as time goes on.
Is It Going To Cost You To Get Started?
Once you start to work out the finer details, you also need to figure out how much it is going to cost to get started. Whether you’re paying for equipment or paying for lessons, starting a new sport can be incredibly expensive. If you’re on a budget and you want to see if you enjoy yourself first, you may want to consider getting started at home. It will be much cheaper and give you an idea of what you like.
How Long Will You Give It Before You Try Something New?
Finally, you need to think about how long you’re going to give it before you call it a day. Although you’re most likely going to enjoy yourself, you need to ensure you’re not forcing yourself to carry on with a hobby that you do not like. Whether it’s 5 weeks or 5 months, you need to decide when you’re going to give up.
Are you thinking of starting a new sport or exercise routine? What do you need to consider to ensure you’re choosing the right option for you? Did we miss anything off the list? Let us know your thoughts and ideas in the comments section below.
