Yep, that's me all the way back in 2016. Don't I look so happy, so full of life, hopeful even? When I was in high school I ran cross country, lifeguarded, and worked out on the daily. Even as I got older I'd go on hikes, walks, runs, and frequently lifted weights. Yeah, I know, you can tell right? So, really, what happened? Well I got married, had kids, got an office job, and then divorced. Or, at least, that's what I used to tell myself. But the reality was much, much harsher.
Consistency Above All Else
"Hey, go any tips for me to get in shape?" Yep, be consistent. Everyone gets started, gets discouraged and quits. Have you ever noticed that every fitness program says to try it for 30 - 90 days and they guarantee you'll see results? They aren't wrong. No matter what you do, run, walk, lift, jazzercise and do it for 30 to 90 days and you will start to see a difference. A stream erodes a mountain over time. Stop looking at the mountain and focus on the daily stream. Things become much more manageable.
Simplicity
Don't over complicate your workout routine. Keep it simple, seriously. You're more likely to be consistent when you don't have tons of nonsense to keep track. Chest, back, legs, shoulders. Bench, Deadlift, Squat, and Shoulder Press. Start light, learn correct form and work up from there. The rest will work itself out over time. Deadlift will build your abs faster than 1000's of crunches. And no shame in using machines, the goal is just to be doing better than yesterday. You are your only competition and your greatest ally.
Let Your Body Lead
If you wake up and it's leg day and your body is like,"Nope, I'm good" instead of just forgetting the gym that day go do what it wants. I had three chest days in a row once. It was amazing and just what my body needed. Then I got back to the grind. If it wants sleep don't fight it. Rest builds and heals. If it's hungry feed it. Thirsty, drink up. You'll find as you get farther along that your cravings will change. You'll want more protein. More fiber. Healthier food options will become desired. Give in to that. You'll find that your body is your greatest ally in moving your goals forward. Don't move faster than your body does and you won't be overcome.