Getting back into it

3-tip Thursday

A big decision and struggle a lot of folks are going to face even more now than New Years time each year lol is the difficulty of returning to the gym. How does one return after so much time off? Should I go back? What about all this stuff I bought?

Well I can't answer all your questions but here's three tips to help you return to the gym effectively, so you don't spend months pouting about the weight you've gained or lost...

Tip#1: Make a plan.

Like everything fitness related you have to plan ahead and stick to it. Form a long term plan (3-6months) with weekly goals. Try setting manageable micro goals (eg. week 1: go to gym 3 times....week 6: lose 1.5lbs of weight...week 16: deadlift 375...). Like nutrition, setting weekly goals are helpful reminders that will keep you progressing and staying on track.

Tip#2: Don't stress.

If you were, or wish to be, a frequent gym goer then remember you aren't the only one in this boat. Yes many took the leap of faith and bought equipment but that remains a small population, as most people lack the space for it. The gym should be a safe space where you can go and relax, worry not of what others think of you.

Getting back to where you were or starting off fresh is difficult regardless the situation so stick to your plan, know things will progressively get better, and try to remain stress free. Stress itself will hinder your success more than a few months off from the gym, I can assure you that.

Tip#3: Take it slow, keep it simple.

The WORST thing you can do is go full bore and try jumping back in where you left off or going extra "hard" to catch up for the lost time. This will only lead to injury and over training. Take it slow, return to the gym maybe 3-4 days instead 4-7. Use full body circuits and low impact lifts to re-acclimate your body to the external forces of bearing weights, incorporate cardio to get used to further cardio demands of lifting, running, and playing (sport etc.). Be gradual with your return to the gym, just like the first time you took off on this journey you must take things slow, moderate, and respect your body when it says enough is enough. Soon enough you'll be right back to where you left off and ready to amp things up.

Stay safe, be smart, and see you in the gym!

JB

"Progression built through consistency and tested by Passion"