Slideshow: Fitness Tips for Beginner Athletes
Take the First Step
Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
Start With Small Goals
Mix Things Up
Get Your Doctor's OK
Eat and Drink for Fuel
Drink Enough Water
Do Strength Training
Dress for Comfort
Learn Proper Form
IMAGES PROVIDED BY:
1) Dimitri Vervitsiotis / Photographer’s Choice
2) Seth Joel / Photographer’s Choice
3) Mike Kemp / Getty
4) Peter Cade / Iconica
5) Mark Romanelli / The Image Bank
6) Glow Cuisine
7) David and Les Jacobs / Blend Images
8) Tetra Images / Getty
9) Andrew Rich / Vetta
10) Andersen Ross / The Image Bank
SOURCES:
American College of Sports Medicine: "Off the Couch and Active: When to see a Physician Before Exercising."
American Council on Exercise: "Strength Training 101," "Why is it important to vary my workout routines?" "What should I eat before and after my morning, afternoon or evening workout?" "Eat Well to Stay Motivated and Energized," "Healthy Hydration."
Harvard Health Publications: "Keeping your strength training routine fresh, from Harvard's Strength and Power Training Special Health Report," "10 Tips for Exercising Safely."
Kansas State University: "Should You Eat Before or After Exercise?"
Pete McCall, exercise physiologist, American Council on Exercise.
Nemours Foundation.
Dori Ricci, fitness consultant, Target Training, New York.
ToughMudder.com.
University of Arizona: "Strength Training with Elastic Bands."
WarriorDash.com.