We’ve all fallen from the fitness wagon before.
Sticking to a fitness routine can be tough, particularly when you’re juggling a million things at the same time. Sometimes we also lose some of our motivation or just struggle with self-care. It’s not always simple to prioritize physical activity when other things in life are fighting for the front seat.
Regardless of why you fell off in the first place, below are great tips to help you bounce back and get back on the wagon, no matter how long it’s been.
Tips for Getting Back on the Fitness Wagon
Leave No Room for Mental poison.
People often feel they’ve lost all their hard work after time off, but that’s not necessarily the case. The benefits of exercise traverses most people think. Plus, we all go through dry spells because we’re human. So, don’t beat yourself up and let guilt prevent you from taking action.
Look for Short, Effective Workouts.
Start with something short and sweet, like HIIT (High-Intensity Interval training workouts) workouts. These workouts get the heart rate up quickly and boost your metabolism with short bursts of high-intensity movements. That you can do them free-form or use equipment just like a treadmill, elliptical, or fitness bike. Short workouts can also improve your motivation to keep going.
Set New Goals.
Goals change like we all do, so make a new list of SMART goals that will inspire, motivate, and challenge you to definitely get started again. Try not to make these weight-related goals, but health-oriented goals for the mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Seek Out Support and Encouragement.
Whether it’s from friends and family, a significant other, a health professional, or a social media group you’re in, support and encouragement go a long way. They let you know you’re not by yourself, even in challenging times, and they keep you accountable.
Start with Something.
Don’t overcommit or else you’ll get overwhelmed and quit. Begin with changing one thing, like visiting the gym one or two days every week or taking a nightly after-dinner walk. Maybe it’s foregoing a nap you actually don’t need so you can get energy through exercise instead. After that thing becomes a habit, keep adding new goals to the mix.
Final Thoughts
Getting back on the fitness wagon can be tough, but just because you’re out of the game doesn’t mean you need to stop playing. Sometimes, all it takes is a new wave of energy to kick things back to gear. In addition to the above tips, try revamping your music playlist, investing in some new workout clothes, or switching up that which you do for physical activity. You’ll return on the wagon in no time, and use will once again become part of your routine.