How Long Does it Take to Get Fit? [infographic]

How-Long-Does-it-Take-to-Get-FitAlthough getting fit is on the bucket lists of many people out there, few of them are aware of the fact that there will be a fair amount of dedication and commitment required in order to achieve this goal. If you have wondered how long it will take you to get properly fit, you may want to dust off those New Balance running shoes and read on.

#1 – What is your Starting Point?

Have your recent activity levels been putting couch potatoes to shame or have you already started getting some exercise in here and there? One of the main factors that will determine how long it will take you to get fit will be whether you are already partially active or not. If you are not active in any way during an average day and you are willing to commit fully to getting fit, you can expect the process to take anywhere between 6 and 12 weeks. However, if you have already made a start with exercising and getting mobile, getting fully fit may not take as long.

#2 – Start Slowly

The most important thing to remember about getting fit is that it will not happen overnight. You will also need to give your body time to adjust to being more active, so don’t attempt to start out by pulling on your New Balance running shoes and trying to run 5 miles in your first week of getting active. This will either result in serious injury in the form of muscle strain or you will find yourself feeling completely demotivated because you weren’t able to complete your run without feeling completely winded.

#3 – Increase Gradually

According to the U.S. Department of health & Human Services, adults should be exercising for approximately 150 minutes per week. However, you may find yourself only being able to engage in brisk walking or jogging for a few minutes at a time in the beginning – which is perfectly OK. Start off with brisk walking and running a few yards in between, and increasing the amount of running gradually.

#4 – No Fancy Equipment Needed

In most cases, the only accessory that can be deemed as necessary for helping you get fit is a good quality pair of New Balance walking or running shoes and snug-fitting socks. These will not only help keep your feet comfortable; they will prevent most forms of foot injury and reduce the amount of shock that is experienced by your ankles, knees, hips and lower back. It can also be a good idea to invest in one or two moisture-wicking shirts and pairs of shorts, as they will draw perspiration away from your body.

There are many excellent pairs of New Balance shoe types on the market, which means that you will be able to find at least one or two pairs that are a perfect fit for your feet. It is recommended that shoes be fitted as late as possible during the day. This will ensure that they don’t become too tight or uncomfortable, as feet expand or swell slightly as the day goes on.