As life is continuing to take gradual steps back towards the ‘normality’ we have craved for so long, you may be wondering.. “why do I feel so anxious at such positive news?!” Well, you may be comforted to know that you’re not alone and it’s completely normal to feel this way. So, take a deep breath and have a read of the following 5 tips on returning to the gym after a long break.
- Don’t rush – the gym isn’t going anywhere!
The most important lesson to take from this today is: Don’t rush. Take it easy. Your body has had a long rest and it will need time to get moving again and get back to performing the way it used to. Trying to lift what you once did or trying to run as far as you once could as soon as you step back into the gym is a recipe for disaster. Pushing yourself to perform at your pre-covid level could result in an injury. It might feel frustrating to start from scratch again, but you will get there and with our help you’ll do it safely.
- Warm up and cool down. Yes, EVERY time.
Warming up and cooling down might feel like a waste of time in the moment but trust us when we say they are essential. Warming up helps prepare your body for hard work and gradually revs up your cardiovascular system by raising your body temperature and increasing blood flow to your muscles. Cooling down after your workout is just as important as it allows for a gradual recovery of your heart rate and blood pressure. Warming up and cooling down may also help reduce muscle soreness and lessen your risk of injury.
- Ask for help – we won’t bite!
If you want some good old-fashioned face to face advise, don’t forget our fitness instructors are here to do exactly that! Whether you want to join in a class to get some guidance, have a chat about your current fitness goals and how to achieve them or you just want a quick reminder of how the machines work, we’re happy to help! Please speak to a member of the fitness team on your next visit if you’re looking for some support on your return to the gym.
- Swimming may be your new best friend
Swimming is a fantastic form of low impact exercise. It’s gentle on the joints and is extremely good for maintaining a healthy heart and lungs, so it’s the perfect way to ease yourself back into an active lifestyle. Plus, its great fun for all the family! Swimming also has many other hidden benefits that you wouldn’t expect, such as alleviating stress and improving flexibility.
- Come with a friend
Everything is better with friends – including exercise! Now that social distancing is becoming a distant nightmare and we can interact with friends and loved ones again, why not arrange to train together? Training with a friend can help to reduce any feelings of anxiety about returning to the gym and you’re more likely to stick to your commitment. Bringing a friend along will provide the support and confidence you might currently be lacking.
Feel better? More and more people are now ditching the home workouts and venturing back into the gym. If you’re thinking of taking the leap – well done and we can’t wait to have you back!