So you’ve fallen off the wagon – you went from going to the gym 4-6 days a week to driving by the gym to go get frozen yogurt (and you probably get more toppings than you should). It’s very easy to get off track but nowhere near as easy to get back into it. But I can assure you that it happens to everyone. Whether it’s life, injury, a lack of interest, or something else that gets in the way and takes precedent; here are some helpful tips to help you get back in the gym!
- Take it easy
If you’ve taken some time off the last thing you want to do is shock your body by trying to follow the same routine you were doing before. It will either result in an injury or some serious DOMS, which will just deter you from wanting to return. Start by just going a few days a week and add a day when you feel comfortable. Because of muscle memory your body will quickly pick up what you’re putting down (figuratively and literally).
- Motivate yourself
It’s easy to get discouraged during your first few sessions back in the gym. You might be feeling upset that you’re unable to do things you were able to before – don’t harp on it, but instead use it as motivation. A kind friend once said to me, “I know you’re not where you want to be, but think about how far you’ve come.” Each day is a step closer to your goal – keep going!
- Bring a friend
Since you might be feeling a bit disheartened, use the buddy system to help inspire one another. There’s no skipping that last set or jetting out before you hit the treadmill when you’re not alone – in fact, bringing a friend will push you to do an EXTRA set and an extra mile. Working out with a friend will force both of you to hold each other accountable; plus it’s fun, so you’ve got that going for you!
- Reward yourself
Set a goal, crush it, and reward yourself. Have you been eyeing a new pair of Nike sneakers for a while? Or a new mascara from Sephora? Set a goal to hit the gym “X” days a week for a month and when you hit that goal you’ll be smiling all the way to the mall. Using an incentive is a great way to push yourself when you’re getting back into the swing of things.
- Just do it
Let go of the guilt! Like I said – it happens to everyone. When it comes down to it – there ain’t nothin’ to it but to do it. Go kill it!
Karen Leiser says
I had this page pulled up, but just now had a chance to read it. I didn’t realize this was your own blog! Very cool. Well done.
Carly says
Thanks so much for reading Karen!