Hey everyone!

I hope everyone had a fun-filled weekend. I’m still sore from Saturday’s Propel Co:Labs Fitness Festival here in NYC.

When I was living in LA, I’ve always wanted to attend one of those but never got the chance to… so you know, I absolutely HAD to when I found out they were hosting one here in the city!! We did FOUR workouts that day. It was madness, and I loved every second of it.

Isn’t it cute that fitness has now become a trend? While this is wonderful, I want to reiterate something to those new to fitness: don’t compare your Chapter One to somebody else’s Chapter 50. We live in a world where mindless scrolling seems to occupy most of our days; this is okay so long as you do not get consumed by the things you see and let them negatively affect you.

Here are FIVE tips I would love to share with those new to the game –

Eating Habits

Please do not go on crazy insane diets. Make small gradual changes. It’s important not to do an abrupt change as this will most likely backfire. When I first started, I just changed my portions. I didn’t eliminate white rice altogether; I simply ate less of it. You know that phrase, moderation is key? It’s true. Try not to deprive yourself, and continue maintaining a healthy relationship with food.

Start with Body Weight

I know it’s tempting to pick up a weight or two in the gym, but I highly recommend working with your own body weight and make sure your form is on point prior to doing so. This will eliminate any chances of injury. Work your way up. You don’t have to pick up a 15lb dumbbell when you’re just starting out doing bicep curls.

Look for Inspo

Once you’ve gotten used to working with your body weight, bookmark a few videos on IG. While I do follow a handful, my favorites would be Katy Hearn Fit, Anne Phung, Paige Hathaway, and my very dear friend since high school Jasmin Pinto. There is a whole myriad of fitness pros out there; I know it can get pretty overwhelming. Just start by committing to a couple of favorites, bookmarking videos for different parts of your body, and go from there. Also, I like to follow those with a journey. It can be pretty difficult to tell the difference between those who worked for it and those who bought it, so be sure to remain cautious of this.

Be Realistic

Set realistic goals. Don’t expect to work out glutes one day, and expect a round peach bottom tomorrow. All of this takes work. Changes may not be so apparent; but with consistency and time, you will see changes. Usually others will notice it before you do, so take note of that as well.

Everyone’s Different

The truth is, genetics play a role as well. Some may need to work harder and some may have different rates of metabolism. Work out for YOU. Don’t assume that just because you’re hitting the gym the same number of times per week as someone else to expect similar results.

Personally, I began seeing my own results when I stopped working out to look a certain way. Sure, it started off that way but I began LOVING working out and not seeing it as a chore. I did it to feel STRONGER and not look skinnier. Everything else followed.

Whether your goal is to bulk up or lean out, acknowledge this and be true to you. There are different supplements and powder to aide you with your goals, so be sure to do your research to see which fits best for your own personal needs.

Good luck with your goals!! I want to hear all about them and your journey… and please let me know if you have any questions!