How I Got Into Fitness (and What I Wish I Knew Sooner)

If you’d told me a few years ago that I’d genuinely look forward to gym sessions, meal prepping, and lifting weights — I probably would’ve laughed.

Back then, I didn’t know where to start, and to be honest, how I got into fitness was a complete accident. I just knew I didn’t feel my best, and I was tired of always starting over. I didn’t know that I would love it this much.

I used to think getting “into fitness” meant being super strict with food, running for miles, and waking up at 5am every day.

Spoiler: it doesn’t.

What actually helped me stick with it was doing things my way — slowly, consistently, and without punishing myself. Although I must admit the 5 am starts have helped a little 🤭.

5 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started:

• You don’t have to be motivated every day. You just have to be consistent.
• Walking, stretching, and strength training count. You don’t need to kill yourself with HIIT five days a week.
• High-protein meals and snacks make a huge difference — not just physically, but mentally too.
• It’s okay to feel awkward in the gym. Everyone starts somewhere.
• Rest days are part of the plan, not a failure.

The best part? Once I stopped trying to be “perfect” and started focusing on progress, everything changed.

I started to feel stronger – mentally and physically. I could actually enjoy the process, rather than dread it.

Check out my blog on beginner gym mistakes HERE to learn the things that helped me when I was starting out.

My Advice if You’re Just Starting:

Don’t overthink it.
Move your body in a way that feels good.
Eat food that fuels you.
And take it one step at a time.

You don’t need to do everything — you just need to do something

Two Absolute Musts If You’re Just Starting

Invest in ONE really nice gym fit. My favourite brands are by Powerlete and Oner Active . The reason I say to start with only one, is because it really does motivate you to keep going! If the reward is another really nice set!

How I got into fitness was by investing in one really good gym set and then buying a few cheaper sets so I didn’t have to wash the clothes multiple times. Then as I stayed consistent I purchased more almost like a reward to myself.

The other thing I did was get myself some yummy protein powder. Again, you don’t need to go crazy, if you are starting out I would recommend just getting yourself one powder and seeing how you can incorporate it into your normal routine.

Basically, if you are a newbie the last thing you want to do is go nuts and burn out immediately.

My fave powder is Protein Works Whey protein 360 extreme Millionaires Shortbread! It’s honestly so good. It was the first power I ever tried and still to this day is my favourite. You can use Code HANNAHC for money off your order.

If you use the above link and code, I will make a small commission – this also supports me and my blog – at no extra cost to you.

Looking for New Gymwear?

If you’re after comfy, flattering activewear that actually makes you feel confident in the gym, I’ve got a discount code for Powerlete that I genuinely recommend.

Use code HANNAHCHARLOTTE at checkout for 10% off.

To see all my discounts and codes click here -> Discounts and Codes

If you use the above link and code, I will make a small commission – this also supports me and my blog – at no extra cost to you.