Resuming Physical Activity Again
Hey there! With lockdowns and fitness centers closed, keeping up with our exercise routines has been a struggle for many of us. But it's crucial we get back into fitness as muscle loss can lead to issues with mobility and balance, which in turn can trigger or worsen a host of health problems.
So let's discuss some tips for getting back into a good exercise routine now that restrictions are easing up. Keep in mind, you won't be able to do the same amount as before the lockdown. Remember, any activity is better than none!
If you find yourself falling short of your goals, don't beat yourself up. Be realistic to prevent overexerting yourself, injuring yourself, feeling frustrated, and eventually quitting altogether.
Plunging back into an activity you haven't done in a while and expecting to pick up where you left off may result in unwanted aches, pains, and injuries. Take things slow when resuming your routine, so you can get the correct techniques back before increasing intensity.
It's also important to do a proper warm-up and cool-down tailored to your activity, which includes slow, rhythmic movements and stretching before and after your workout.
If motivation is an issue for you, here are some ideas to minimize mental barriers to exercise:
- Contact your exercise and activity provider to find out if their location or class schedule has changed.
- Lay out your workout gear the night before to avoid being deterred in the morning.
- Set a fixed schedule for your activities.
- Incorporate exercise into your daily routine—it becomes part of your day instead of a chore.
- Choose activities you enjoy, making it something you look forward to rather than dread.
So, if you've let your exercise habits slide during lockdown, take one less reason to put off getting back into it now. Good luck!
FYI: Here are some enrichment insights
- Resuming exercise after a long break requires a thoughtful approach to ensure safety, effectiveness, and sustained motivation.
- Assess your current fitness level before starting your workout routine again. If you notice any aches, pains, or health issues, consult a healthcare professional.
- Plan your return by setting short-term, achievable goals, mixing exercise types, and scheduling regular sessions.
- Incorporate stretching, aerobic exercise, and strength training in your routine for a balanced and effective workout.
- Remember to warm up and cool down with dynamic stretches before exercise and static stretches after exercise.
- Gradually increase your exercise duration and intensity, and pay attention to your body's signals of discomfort.
- Track your progress, find enjoyable exercises, incorporate social support, plan for potential obstacles, prioritize recovery, and focus on nutrition and sleep to maintain motivation and ensure long-term success in your fitness journey.
- To ensure a safe and successful return to exercise after lockdown, consider assessing your current fitness level, setting achievable short-term goals, and incorporating a mix of stretching, aerobic exercise, and strength training into your routine.
- Mental motivation can be a barrier to exercise, but techniques such as setting a fixed schedule, choosing enjoyable activities, and tracking progress can help minimize these obstacles and make your fitness journey more enjoyable and sustainable.
