Vacations are fantastic, but they can really throw off your fitness routine. Ready to get back into exercising after a long break? Here’s how you can start today!
Traveling is often a great way to unwind and take a break from your daily life, but it can disrupt your exercise habits. Whether you’ve been on a lengthy trip or have simply fallen out of the habit, it’s crucial to find the motivation to start working out again. It might be tough, but it’s definitely doable.
Here are some steps to help you get back into exercising:
First, figure out why you stopped. Maybe you had no opportunity to work out while traveling, were recovering from an injury, or just got bored with your routine and didn’t see the results you wanted. Identifying the issue allows you to find a way to avoid it in the future.
Once working out becomes a habit, you’ll do it regularly without even thinking about it. Start by setting a goal and working toward it every day. Soon, exercising will become a natural part of your routine. However, be cautious not to become addicted to it, as that can be harmful too.
To make it easier to get back into working out, choose activities you enjoy. Find a fun exercise class at your local gym and sign up. It’s also a great way to meet new friends who can help keep you accountable.
Take it slow when reintegrating exercise into your routine. Make it a daily habit, but don’t push yourself too hard initially. If you haven’t jogged in a while, start with shorter running intervals. The same goes for weightlifting—start with lighter weights and gradually increase them to avoid injury.
Stress relief is another benefit of working out. Instead of unhealthy habits like smoking, overeating, or binge-watching TV, try to relieve stress through physical activity. Go for a run, take a hike, or follow an exercise video.
Feeling accomplished after a workout is one of the best rewards. You’ll rarely regret completing a workout; the challenge is just starting. Set small goals and reward yourself when you achieve them. The rewards could be anything from a favorite dessert to a weekend getaway for reaching major milestones.
Scheduling workouts is also key. Whether you prefer using a planner or your phone, make sure to set aside time for exercise. Treat it like an important appointment you can’t miss.
Lastly, be patient with yourself. If you were in great shape before taking a long break, understand that it will take time to get back to that level. Seek support from friends and family to keep you motivated. Even a shorter workout is better than skipping it altogether.
Ready to get back into exercising? Start today because it’s good for you! Find what motivates you and stick with it.
What strategies help you break out of an exercise rut?
