Books: My thoughts about Seven Weeks to Forever by Jennifer Farwell

Where to find Seven Weeks to Forever by Jennifer Farwell online:

Want to know what others thought about this book? Check out these book reviews:

• "Farwell’s characters are really likeable and very well developed throughout the novel. It is easy for the reader to connect to them and become gripped to their story." Read the full review at A Novel Thought
• "Interwoven themes of death, vulnerability, and growth also appear throughout the novel, but the focus of love overcoming many obstacles is what I really enjoyed reading about." Read the full review at Nicole Lynn Reads

Final Thoughts

This was a story that leans heavily into emotion and reflection, inviting readers to think about love, choice, and the moments that shape who we become. Whether you connect most with the themes, the relationships, or the overall atmosphere, it’s the kind of book that encourages you to pause and sit with your thoughts once you’ve finished.

Now I’d love to hear from you:
Have you read this book, or is it on your TBR?
Do you enjoy young adult romances that explore bigger ideas, or do you prefer stories grounded firmly in reality?

Share your thoughts in the comments—I always love hearing different perspectives, and your recommendations might help another reader discover their next favourite book.

How to Build a Beginner Workout Plan for 2026

Start strong, stay consistent, and make this your healthiest year yet.

As 2026 approaches, many people feel motivated to get in shape—but beginners often don’t know where to start. The good news? Building a beginner workout plan is simpler than it seems. You don’t need fancy equipment, long workouts, or perfect discipline. You just need structure, small steps, and consistency.

This guide walks you through creating a realistic, flexible, beginner-friendly workout plan you can start today and carry confidently into the new year.

Disclosure: The FTC Disclosure Provision is a law that requires influencers to disclose when they are being paid to promote a product or service. So please know that if I'm not making money through affiliate links/sponsored content on the post you're currently reading, it's an oversight on my part and will be corrected soon. Read the full disclosure about all the legal stuff here.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The information provided on www.JoLinsdell.com does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.

A Personal Note About My 2026 Fitness Journey

As I step into 2026, I’m determined to focus more intentionally on my own health and fitness. Over the past year, my various health conditions have reminded me—sometimes gently, sometimes not—that my well-being must come first. I’ve spent a long time pushing through discomfort, brushing off symptoms, and convincing myself I’d “start tomorrow.” But I’ve realised that caring for my body can’t be optional anymore—it needs to be a priority. So this year, I’m committing to small, steady steps, choosing movement that supports healing, and building routines that make me feel stronger and more alive. I hope sharing my journey encourages you to take those first steps alongside me.

1. Start With Your “Why”

Before choosing workouts, identify your motivation:

• Do you want more energy?

• Are you trying to lose weight?

• Do you need to reduce stress?

• Do you want to build strength or mobility?

Your “why” shapes your plan and helps you stay consistent when motivation dips (and it will).

2. Set Realistic, Measurable Goals

Avoid vague goals like “get fit.” Instead, choose simple targets:

• Walk 20 minutes a day, 4 days a week

• Do 2 strength workouts per week

• Increase flexibility enough to touch your toes

• Lose 5–10 pounds in the first quarter

Clear goals turn your plan into a roadmap, not a guess.

3. Build a Weekly Workout Framework

A simple beginner-friendly structure for 2026 might look like this:

✔ 3–4 Days of Low-Impact Cardio

Great options:

• Brisk walking

• Cycling

• Elliptical

• Beginner dance or step videos

• Light jogging (if joint-friendly)

Start with 15–20 minutes and work up to 30 minutes.

Helpful gear:

• A comfortable pair of walking shoes can make all the difference.

• A fitness tracker is great for monitoring steps, distance, and calories.

✔ 2 Days of Strength Training

Focus on full-body exercises:

• Squats

• Glute bridges

• Lunges

• Press-ups (wall or knee variations)

• Rows (with bands or dumbbells)

• Planks

Aim for 20–25 minutes, completing each movement for 8–12 repetitions.

Helpful gear:

• A set of resistance bands or adjustable dumbbells is perfect for beginners.

• A yoga mat can provide cushioning for floor exercises.

✔ 1 Day of Stretching or Mobility

Gentle yoga, foam rolling, or 10–15 minutes of simple stretches:

• Hamstrings

• Hip flexors

• Chest

• Upper back

Mobility days help prevent injury and support long-term progress.

Helpful gear:

• A foam roller helps release tight muscles.

• Yoga blocks or a stretch strap can make stretches more effective.

4. Start Slow and Progress Gradually

• Add 5 minutes to cardio

• Increase weights by 1–2 kg

• Add an extra set

• Try more challenging variations (wall press-ups → knee press-ups)

Small progress = sustainable progress.

5. Keep Your Workouts Short and Simple

A 2026 plan should be flexible and enjoyable. Depending on the time of year:

• Try hiking in the spring (hiking shoes)

• Swim in the summer (swimming goggles)

• Join autumn charity walks or virtual 5Ks

• Do indoor routines during colder months

Fitness becomes easier when it feels like a lifestyle, not a chore.

7. Plan for Obstacles

Life happens—but you can stay consistent with a little planning:

• Busy schedule? Use 10–15 minute “micro-workouts.”

• Travelling? Pack a resistance band.

• Low motivation? Do a “minimum” version of your workout (5 minutes).

• Injury? Swap high-impact exercises for low-impact alternatives.

Consistency beats perfection every time.

8. Track Your Progress

Use anything that helps you stay engaged:

• A simple fitness journal

• A fitness app

• A habit-tracking calendar

• Monthly photos

• Notes on how your energy and mood improve

Tracking progress builds motivation and shows you how far you’ve come.

9. Stay Flexible and Adjust Every 4–6 Weeks

Your body will adapt. Your schedule might change. Your goals might shift.

Every month or so, ask:

• Are my workouts still challenging?

• Do I enjoy them?

• Am I getting stronger or feeling better?

• Do I need to adjust frequency or intensity?

A dynamic plan keeps you improving throughout 2026.

10. Remember: Progress Is Personal

Sample Beginner Workout Plan for January 2026

Final Thoughts

Building a beginner workout plan for 2026 doesn’t require perfection—just intention and consistency. Start small, stay steady, and celebrate every step forward. Your 2026 self will thank you.

Find more Health and Fitness posts here.