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Exercising in a Post Lockdown World
If you took a bit of a break from exercise during lockdown, you certainly aren’t alone. When gyms closed down, and we found ourselves spending a lot more time than usual at home, most of us packed our running shoes away for a while. At the same time, we started to reach for the wine and the cookie jar and treat ourselves to takeout for comfort. Most of us have gained a little weight, lost muscle tone, and found our fitness levels dropping.
Even if you’ve managed to keep going with homework outs and long walks, you might be keen to step it up a gear now after such a long break from more hardcore exercise.
Don’t Be Scared of the Gym
Most of us are a little worried about returning to normal, even now that many places are back open. You might feel anxious about being around people or in public places where you have less control over cleaning and safety.
Your gym should have put measures in place to keep you safe. These might include limiting capacity, closing some areas, and extra cleaning. If you have any doubts, get in touch and ask them what they are doing to protect you. Then, make sure you wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and stay away if you feel ill.
Try-On Your Gym Gear
Your body has probably changed over the last few months. Even if you haven’t gained weight, you may have lost muscle tone and changed shape. Try on your gym gear now, and buy new stars and stripes leggings if you need to.
Consider Exercising Outdoors
If you don’t feel safe at the gym or don’t feel that they have put appropriate measures in place, don’t go. You won’t enjoy your workouts if you are worried.
Exercising outdoors is an excellent alternative. You can run, walk, and even practice circuit training outdoors.
Make the Most of Free Online Content
Compliment your outdoor workouts or your gym sessions with home exercise. There are plenty of free exercise videos on YouTube. If you aren’t doing much else, HIIT is a great way to go, but if you are pushing hard, yoga or other gentle stretches might be more beneficial to your mind and body.
Kill Two Bird with One Stone
If there’s something that you miss more than exercise, it’s probably your friends and family. So, why not kill two birds with one stone? Go for runs, walks, or to the gym with a friend, spend time chatting while you work.
Build Strength and Stamina Slowly
Remember, if you’ve had a few months off, your body won’t be the same. It won’t feel the same. You’ll find it hard, both mentally and physically. Take it slowly, build strength and stamina, and don’t punish yourself for not being able to do what you could have done before all this.
Enjoy Yourself
Exercise is great for your mind, body, and mood. But, only if you enjoy it. Try different workouts and locations, and try to find something that makes you feel good. It’ll boost your mood, and you’ll be more likely to stick with it.
