How to ease back into your workout routine

It’s no secret that the Covid-19 pandemic put a halt to many social aspects of our lives. Unlike getting back to work or hooking up with friends which will take little effort, easing back into workout routines will be among the hardest things to do post the pandemic.

The body is not only used to lazing around but also to sporadic light exercises. The thought of returning to the gym - which will mean intense exercises, strict diets and a tight schedule - can be disheartening.

Do not fret, here are easy ways to help you get back into your workout routine smoothly:

Set realistic goals

You are not going to be as fit and swift as you were months back, so do not overdo it. Give yourself an allowance and an adjustment period to help you get back in shape. Take time to acclimatise your body back into the exercising routine.

It might take longer than you expect but don’t give up or compare yourself to others, fitness is a personal journey not a competition to find out who is best. Talk to a gym instructor and let them guide you through the whole process gradually until you’re fit and strong enough to go through with intense workouts.

Have a plan

Easing your way back into the gym is like starting a new journey. Have a plan for the kind of schedule your body can handle and the kind of workouts you can start with.

Schedule your workout sessions in advance so you don’t feel the need to miss any and include how many hours, if not minutes, you plan on spending at the gym per session.

Remember, your body will take time to get used to heavier weights and intense exercises with time. So go for lighter weights and less intense physical exercises first to avoid straining or hurting your muscles in the first few weeks.

Think positive thoughts

Although it has only been a few months, when you backslide from your workout routine it seems like a lifetime. You might start thinking and talking yourself into dropping out of your workout routine, but it is never too late to start again.

You did it once you can do it again. Do not listen to your negative thoughts or those who think it is all a waste of time.

Keeping fit is all a mindset that you need to set right and straight. Take it easy on yourself when you can’t achieve your previous goals on the first go, it will take time. Being harsh and hard on yourself will only make you feel less motivated and more likely to drop out.

Adjust your workout schedule

Not all change is good and sometimes we just have to brace ourselves and survive. This is the time to consider other methods of training. For instance, nearly everyone is meeting online, you can arrange with your trainer to have online sessions so as to stay abreast with your workout sessions.

If your trainer is not available there are tonnes of workout apps and live streaming sessions that can make your workout much easier and fun. This is especially if you still don’t want to physically go to the gym.

Get a workout partner

Staying focused on your workout routine is not easy especially when you have to supervise yourself.

Having a workout partner can help you be accountable and stay motivated towards exercising.

It is much easier if your workout partner is readily available and you can go through the routines together and check on each others progress.

You are less likely to miss a workout session when someone is expecting you and pushing you. When it comes to working out you need all the positive energy you can get. [www.evewoman.co.ke]