We might be nearing the end of summer and kids have commenced their Autumn term at school, but whoever said abs were made in winter was spot on… just because you don’t have a holiday to look forward to next week is no reason to slack off the gym. If anything, it’s the perfect time to get started. If you’re a fitness newbie and aren’t sure what you’re doing or you’re trying to get back in to the groove after the holidays then read on for some tips on where to start!

Find an app to get you started
If you’re new to fitness or have simply avoided the gym since summer began back in June, then stepping into your local studio or workout class can feel very daunting! A really good idea to get you back into the swing of things is getting some good coaching. If you’re worried about going to a class and being the only one who doesn’t know what they’re doing, then don’t be. Most trainers will ask if anyone is new, if anyone is injured and if you are, they should provide modifications or some extra support. If this still seems too daunting, there are some great apps out there that allow you to keep fit in the comfort of your home. This means that when you get into the gym or join a class, you’ll understand different exercises and what you’ll get out of them.

Beachbody app www.beachbodyondemand.co.uk

Kayla Itsines – Sweat with Kayla (website and app) www.kaylaitsines.com

If you want some on the go content, our favourite insta inspiration is:

Alice Liveing @aliceliveing

Shona Vertue @shona_vertue

Hollie Grant @thepilatespt

Work out your non-negotiables
One thing that can really help us all is finding a routine, and within that routine working out our own personal non-negotiables. This is going to be different for us all, but start somewhere achievable. For instance, “go for a 30-minute walk, three times a week”, “go swimming every Saturday morning”, or “do a workout class two evenings a week”. Anything you do on top of that can be seen as a bonus and as your strength and fitness increases we can change these weekly goals, but starting off by setting a routine and a target is a good way for us to find motivation.

Get your diet on a kick start
To be healthy and in shape, you absolutely don’t need to guzzle protein shakes as is a common perception. Protein is vital for strong muscles and a healthy body but you can get protein through good nutrition, both in meat and in vegetables. If losing fat is your goal, then you need to balance your calories in versus your calories out, there’s no two ways about it. However, if you’re brand new to fitness try to start buy choosing healthier options. Drink more water, increase your vegetable intake and whilst different people perform best in very individual ways, having three balanced meals a day is a good start. This means your body has a steady release of energy throughout the day, focusing on complex carbs will also do you lots of favours and ensure you’re not getting spikes and then dips of energy which will be the case with sugars.

Naomi’s Kitchen ‘I Am Lean’ blend is a combination of metabolism boosting superfoods and adaptogens which will provide energy and balance your blood sugar, making healthy food choices even easier www.naomis.kitchen

PurEarth Juices and Kefir for a gut loving boost www.purearth.co.uk

SunWarrior Protein – if you do want a more protein from a good source www.sunwarrior.com

Walk into the gym like Beyoncé
Find some beautiful workout clothes that will both provide comfort and empower you to perform your best. We all know that feeling when we come home with a new outfit that we love, so find some workout gear that gives you that feeling! Lucky for you, not only are we an online magazine we’re also an activewear retailer, stocking gorgeous, functional activewear brands from across the globe! Shop here for some seriously beautiful activewear pieces!

Don’t be too hard on yourself
We all have to start somewhere, and starting is often the hardest part, especially if you’ve had a long break! Try not to compare yourself to someone else who may have been exercising for years. There will be struggles and days you just cannot muster the energy, but listen to your body. If you’re exhausted, use that as a sign to rest (and rest is absolutely essential for recovery). Your goals, schedule, time and priorities will be different to the next person, so focus on yourself and what you’re working towards. In this case, it’s totally okay to be selfish.

words by Rachel Cruickshank @rachelcruick