How to Start Actually Training

Training prioritizes a goal. The purpose of an exercise or an exercise session is not soreness or getting sweaty but a goal you’ve chosen. We recommend strength, as it underpins other physical attributes, but training for any goal requires a systematic program, built upon stressing ourselves and allowing for recovery and adaptation over time.

Training provides a purpose to exercise, which also gives a reason as to why you’re going to the gym when you don’t feel like it.

Key Takeaways

Training needs a goal, and PRs track it. Exercise is something you do for the session. Training works toward a goal you’ve chosen. In a strength program, the measure of progress is the personal record. That doesn’t have to be a one-rep max. It can be more weight for a set of five or the same weight for more reps.

Make goals specific and reachable. Many new lifters don’t know what their strength goals are, so a coach helps set one. Even for appearance goals, the team starts with something you can reach soon. For example, aim to take an inch or two off your waist before aiming for the final number, so you get wins along the way.

Effective training is organized. You can’t squat by feel every session and expect to get somewhere. A program keeps some things consistent (the lifts, the schedule, the structure) and changes others on purpose (the weight on the bar, sets and reps) so each session builds on the last.

Think of it as a mosaic. Every session adds a small piece to a bigger picture of your training life. A program is the plan that makes sure the pieces fit together.

Putting it to use. Pick one strength goal, follow a simple, proven program, and log your sessions so you can see your PRs add up.

Related: why barbells beat machines for beginners, how to squat: a beginner’s guide, home gym essentials for beginners.

Want a program built around your goal? Apply for online coaching.