Common mistakes people make when starting a fitness journey include setting unrealistic goals, neglecting proper form, and underestimating the importance of recovery. Many beginners may jump into intense workouts without appropriate conditioning, leading to injury. Additionally, not having a balanced diet can hinder progress and recovery. Another frequent error is a lack of consistency, which undermines long-term success. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s essential to set achievable goals, prioritize education on techniques, and include rest days in training schedules.