The COVID 15: How To Get Back Into a Fitness Routine

It’s needless to say that the past few months have been insanely difficult for everyone. COVID-19 threw a wrench in many people’s plans, especially fitness plans for many who were in the routine of going to the gym and working out socially with accountability buddies. The bad news is that our fitness routines may have hit a road bump, but the good news is that you’re not alone! Many others like you are trying to get back into a fitness routine. Luckily, as gyms and recreation areas open up again, you’re sure to meet people who share your same experience, your friends here at HiDow included! As you restart your fitness routine, remember these tips to help set you up for success!

Find Motivation

Finding the motivation to work out after months of not doing a lot can be difficult. Try to remind yourself (often) why you want to get back into your fitness routine. I find it really helpful to write my motivation down somewhere I can see it daily, like your bathroom mirror, a whiteboard, or on your calendar!

Set a S.M.A.R.T. Goal

Without setting your goals, getting back into a fitness routine (or any routine for that matter) might as well be next to impossible. The reason for this is that goals give you something to work towards that you can measure as opposed to your goals being high, lofty ideas. Throughout your self-quarantine experience, thanks to COVID-19, you may have told yourself, “I’m going to get in shape.” But that means something different to everyone. What does that mean to you?

By setting S.M.A.R.T. goals, you are setting yourself up for success. S.M.A.R.T. goals are: • Specific – Your goal should be clearly defined so that you (and everyone involved) know what the result will hopefully be. • Measurable – How will you measure your goals? Measurable outcomes give you a way to know where you are in the process and give you the information that you need to adjust as you go. • Attainable – It’s important to set realistic goals that are within your reach. You may not be a professional athlete in 6 months, but you can make sure that you train 4 nights a week. • Relevant – Setting a relevant goal is important, or you won’t care to work towards it. Is your goal relevant to your life purpose, or is it just something you know you should do? • Time-Bound – Finally, every goal should have a time frame laid out so that you have a sense of urgency. Give yourself a start date, target dates, and everything in between.

Ease Back Into Things Slowly

When you’re restarting your exercise regimen, you need to remember to take it easy. One of the biggest reasons that workout routines are hard to get off the ground is that people push themselves too far too soon, and they get injured. This is a difficult cycle to break, so try to avoid it altogether. Take it easy at first. This is a marathon, not a sprint.

Stay Active Even on Days Off

“Seven days off makes one weak.” Taking time off can start to add up, and eventually, you’re not going to be making the progress that you hoped for. Try to do something every day, even if it’s a light workout, like a brisk walk or taking the stairs. When you can’t go out to work out, you can still find ways to be active from home. Take an extra fifteen minutes each morning to do free-weight workouts from home. Whatever you have to do to get your heart rate up every single day. Before you know it, you’ll be back on track with your fitness journey.