Getting Back To Exercise After A Hiatus? Here Is How To Do It The Right Way
If you were active for some time and then took a break, it can be tough to pick up right from where you stopped. However, it is possible to start over and reach your previous level or even go higher. Below are some tips that can be helpful when getting back to exercise after a hiatus.
Safety First
If you took a break due to an accident or any other health condition, start by getting clearance from a doctor. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and let you know if it’s safe to go back. Without clearance from your doctor, you could be putting yourself at risk.
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Get Your Workout Gear and Set Your Goals
Make sure you have the right shoes and clothes for your workout. Without those, you can increase the risk of getting injured and you could limit your movements. The right workout clothes and shoes can be a good motivation when getting started. Next, you need to set some fitness goals. Goals will push you to work harder and will keep you focused.
Start Small
Since your body has been on a break for long, don’t pick up from where you left. Start with simpler workouts and fewer minutes and advance with time. For instance, you can do 10 minutes of moderate activity on the first few days and then keep adding five minutes each day until you reach your desired levels. Don’t forget the warm-up exercises before your key workout session.
Set Specific Time for Workout
If you say you will work out when you have time, you are most likely to never work out at all. So, consider choosing a specific time for your workout and sticking to it. Any time of the day is okay, but avoid scheduling your workouts too close to bedtime.
Consider Other Factors That Affect Your Fitness Goals
If your goal is to shed off a number of calories, you need exercise and healthy eating too. In that light, don’t just focus on working out. You need to plan on how you are going to eat healthy. Cut off the unhealthy stuff and shift to nutrient and energy dense healthy foods and drinks. You need that combination to reach your fitness goals. Don’t forget to drink your water throughout the day. Carry a water bottle with you as that will be a good reminder.
Other than diet, sleep is important too. Your body needs rest to recover from the previous workout and prepare for the next one. Thus, don’t cut down on sleep no matter how busy you are. To get quality sleep each night, find a good mattress, clean your room, buy some nice curtains that can block light, paint your walls with a color that promotes calmness and avoid using phones and tablets right before bedtime. Don’t forget to take care of your mental health too.
Work with a Trainer and Accountability Partner
If you need someone to guide and encourage you, you can consider a fitness trainer. Before you hire a trainer, check his or her expertise. Hire someone whose expertise will help you in meeting your goals.
An accountability partner can also play a role in helping you meet your goals. Your accountability partner can be someone you know or you could consider a professional accountability partner. You can find one for as low as $10 per month. Having a workout partner can also keep you motivated.
Once you get started, be consistent and you will get some good results. Don’t forget to have some rest days to avoid fitness burnout.
