Getting back to the gym can be intimidating, especially after a prolonged absence. But getting back into a fitness routine doesn’t have to be overly complicated or difficult.
Here are 6 tips to help you ease your way back into the gym.
Dedicate time to your fitness routine
The first step to establishing a workout routine starts with making time to get to the gym. Carving out enough time in your schedule to make getting to the gym three to four times a week is a great way to get yourself into the habit of working out.
A great way to do this is to book your workout ahead of time through the GoodLife Fitness App or by logging into our Member Portal. This can help hold you accountable and plan out your week.
Arrive prepared
In this ever-changing environment, it’s important to arrive to the gym prepared. This means that you should bring your water bottle and a towel, and arrive in your workout clothes since locker and changeroom access is currently at a minimum. This will also help you make the most of your allotted exercise time.
To learn more about the regulations in place to help keep our Members and Associates safe and healthy, click here.
Take active recovery days
Active recovery or “rest days” are scheduled days of low-intensity exercise that help prevent muscle soreness and stiffness, and mitigate injury.
Active recovery could be a brisk walk, a slow jog, a swim, foam rolling, stretching or even yoga. Anything that allows your body to move and release lactic acid build up without overworking the muscles.
Switch it up
Variety is the spice of life, and that is especially true when it comes to your fitness routine. Incorporating different types of exercise into your fitness routine can help you engage more muscle groups, improve your stamina and endurance and improve your overall level of fitness. Plus, trying something new can help keep you engaged and motivated.
The GoodLife Fitness blog contains a variety of different workouts for all fitness levels. Pick a fresh workout from our database and try something new.
Be patient and realistic
Change is gradual and it takes time, so you may not see results overnight. This is especially true if you’ve taken a break from exercise for a prolonged period of time, changed the intensity of your workouts or suffered an injury.
On average, it could take four to six weeks to return back to your regular fitness routine, so don’t pressure yourself to meet your fitness goals right out of the gate. A successful fitness routine requires a lifestyle change, which means you’ll need to take the time to establish healthy habits.
There may even be days when you don’t feel like going to the gym, or when you need to take a break. Give yourself some grace and don’t allow yourself to feel like a failure. Simply wipe your slate clean and start again the next day.
And last, but certainly not least — have fun
Exercise should not be a form of punishment, and it should not be painful. Exercise is about honoring your body, calming the mind, crushing your fitness goals and above all else, having a good time.
If your workout isn’t enjoyable, try something new or even take a rest day to recover and relax. You’ll find a variety of workouts available on the GoodLife Fitness blog and classes offered at each GoodLife Fitness location. Be sure to check the class schedule at your specific GoodLife Fitness location to ensure that the class is currently being offered.