Whatever activity we do, be it swimming, running or cycling, we usually take a break. It could be for various reasons such as an injury, a long weekend away, or just for a mental break. This differs from person to person.
Whatever it is, a break is a break. Most of the time, we consider breaks as times when we completely stop the activity rather than a small pause from it. Many times, these breaks leave us feeling bad, guilty, and frustrated, because we feel the difference of not moving. But the most important thing to keep in mind is, we can get back into that rhythm after taking these breaks?How? It’s all in the mind. Here are a few tips that would help you back into the groove after a break:
Set goals:
Having a goal in front of you makes you work harder. It could be as simple as a goal of being able to push to 25 push-ups at the end of the month, or losing a kilo or two. Whatever it is, set a goal that interests you and something that you would really get you going. You’ve managed to reach that goal? This is where it gets fun. Set another one and keep it going.
Have a workout/training partner:
Working out can be fun when you have someone with you. The more the merrier, isn’t it? If you love working out with a group, this would suit you best – or if your friend is trying to get back into his/her routine, why not do it together? You just need someone to motivate you and in turn, you’ll be a source of motivation as well. Partner workouts are something you can give a try! What’s better than catching up with your friends, having a good laugh and still getting a great workout in?
Start slow:
Some of us are very excited to restart after a break, while some of us might be feeling guilty and wanting to lose the weight that we’ve gained through the holiday binge. Hence, we might end up overdoing it on the first day and not sustaining it. The best way to deal with this is – one, don’t feel guilty about taking time off. We do require rest days and breaks. Two, start with a less intense workout on day 1 and then slowly increase the intensity.
Allocate time:
Getting back into the groove definitely involves difficulty between choosing to go back to sleep and wearing those shoes and heading out. Remember, you used to have a great routine. So, set aside time. You’ve done it before, you can do it now. An hour a day makes a huge difference when you prioritise right and you know it.
Don’t compare yourself with your old self:
Comparing yourself with your old self (your fitness levels before the break) isn’t a good idea to get yourself back to the routine. Keeping in mind that you can get back to that level of fitness within a set time period might help. But comparing yourself and beating yourself up about how you used to be would just bring in a lot of self-pity and may hinder your progress. Don’t brood over the past, rather, get yourself back up there! Always keep in mind that you’re not literally starting over. You are just going back to where you used to be.