How to get Back into Exercising After a Break

Life can get hectic, and sometimes our exercise routine takes a backseat. Whether it's due to injury, illness, work commitments, or simply losing motivation, taking a break from exercising is very common. The good news is that getting back on track is entirely possible and can be a rewarding and invigorating experience. Here is the process of getting back into exercising after a break, helping you regain your fitness, motivation, and overall well-being.

Think About Types of Movements You Enjoy:

If you had been consistently working out before your break, think of the exercises you enjoyed the most and incorporate them back into your new routine. If you need to start at a modified or less intense version, that’s okay! It can be daunting, but it will be motivating as you see yourself improve. If you don’t really know what you enjoy anymore, look at types of exercise that you find inspiring or would like to do. It can be anything from an interesting yoga pose to hiking a specific trail. When you're engaged and having fun, you'll be more inclined to stick with your routine in the long run.

Start Slow and Gradually Increase Intensity:

It's important to listen to your body and start with a conservative approach when restarting your exercise routine. Begin with low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or gentle yoga to ease your body back into movement. As you gradually rebuild your fitness level, you can then increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.

Set Realistic Goals:

Setting realistic and achievable goals is crucial to avoid burnout and frustration. Start by identifying what you want to accomplish with your exercise routine. Whether it's improving cardiovascular health, losing weight, or increasing strength, establish clear and attainable goals that you can work towards. Remember, progress takes time, so be patient and celebrate each milestone along the way.

Create a Schedule:

Consistency is key when it comes to re-establishing an exercise routine. Designate specific days and times for your workouts and treat them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. By incorporating exercise into your schedule, you'll be more likely to stick with it and make it a habit.

Buddy Up:

Finding a workout buddy or joining a fitness community can significantly boost your motivation and hold you accountable. Having someone to exercise with can make the experience more enjoyable and provide that extra push on days when motivation is lacking. It can be a friend, family member, or even joining group classes or online fitness communities to connect with like-minded individuals.

Focus on Proper Nutrition and Hydration:

Exercise and nutrition go hand in hand. Pay attention to your diet by fueling your body with nutritious foods that support your fitness goals. Aim for a well-balanced diet consisting of lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Additionally, stay hydrated throughout the day to optimize your performance and aid in recovery.

Be Mindful of Rest and Recovery:

While enthusiasm to regain your fitness may be high, it's crucial to allow your body sufficient rest and recovery time. Overdoing it too soon can lead to injuries and setbacks. Incorporate rest days into your exercise routine and prioritize quality sleep to ensure your body has time to repair and rejuvenate.

Track Your Progress:

Keeping track of your progress can be a powerful motivator. Track your workouts, monitor your improvements, and celebrate your achievements along the way. Use a fitness app, a journal, or even a simple spreadsheet to document your progress and see how far you've come.

Returning to exercise after a break may seem daunting, but with the right mindset and a gradual approach, you can regain your fitness levels and rekindle your love for physical activity. Remember to start slowly, set realistic goals, create a schedule, find activities you enjoy, and seek support from friends or fitness communities.