5 Tips for Getting Back to the Gym after Quarantine
Now that most stay at home orders are lifted after the unprecedented COVID 19 pandemic, many people are itching to get back into the gym. No matter how badly you might want to, it can be hard to find the motivation to go, especially after being ordered to stay at home and avoid large crowds for over a month. While the six feet and social distancing rules are still in place, gyms are finally able to open again.
This means it’s time to get back into the swing of things and get back on track. Follow these 5 tips for getting back to the gym after quarantine.
Start Out Slow
If you haven’t been working out during this time, you can’t expect your fitness level to be in the same place it was pre-quarantine. That’s not to say that you’ll never reach that level again- but it is going to take some time. You can still push and challenge yourself during your workouts, but don’t overdo it. Be patient and work with what you have and you will be back to normal in a few weeks.
Get a Workout Buddy
If you’ve set your exercise goals but are having a hard time following through with them, you may want to get a workout buddy. There’s nothing like the motivation of a friend to keep you going while you’re working out, and having someone there with you will hold you accountable and help you stick to your goals.
Create a Schedule and Stick to It
One way to hold yourself accountable is to create an exercise schedule and stick to it. Without a workout schedule, you might be tempted to go whenever you feel like it- and for some people, that day may never come. If you are already struggling to find the motivation to get back into the gym, this will help you stay on track. Exercise is a form of self care, and it is important to treat it as such. Treat it as if it is an appointment you can’t reschedule.
Get a Fitness Coach
Coaches are excellent for many reasons, but one of the most important things that a fitness coach can help with is helping you reach your goals. They will use their expertise to examine your fitness level, health history and goals to design a custom plan that works for YOU and provides real results.
Make Sure You Rest
Some people believe that if you aren’t working out seven days a week then you aren’t going to see results. While daily activity is very important, rest is equally as important. Resting is a crucial part of the process that is needed to build strength, endurance, and muscle. Rest days allow time for your muscles, nerves, and bones to rebuild. During this time it is important to stay hydrated and to get enough sleep to maintain your overall health.
If you’re ready to get back into the gym, use these 5 steps to help motivate you. Always remember to challenge and push yourself until you get the results you are happy with, and remember that nothing good ever comes easy.