7 Tips for Getting Back into Shape After a Long Slump

We all know the struggle of getting back into shape after long dormant periods. Whether it’s due to a lack of motivation, busy schedules, physical injury, or even an emotional slump, it can be intimidating to return to an exercise routine. After all, sometimes breaks can last so long that it doesn’t even feel like you ever had an exercise routine to begin with! Thankfully, coming back to fitness doesn’t have to be a huge challenge. Here are seven tips to help you to get back into shape after a long slump.

Unlocking Habits for Lasting Fitness

One of the first steps when getting back into shape is to identify the habits that you need to form in order to stick to your plan and create a lasting fitness routine. Think about the obstacles that may have contributed to your slump and make a conscious effort to avoid them. For instance, if you are finding it difficult to fit exercise into your schedule, try coming up with a schedule that makes room for it. You can also find ways to motivate yourself even on those days when you don’t feel like working out.

Recovery from a Lull in Body and Mind

It’s important to remember to go easy on yourself during this process. After all, getting back into shape is a journey, not a sprint. If you feel like you haven’t been exercising for a long time, you’ll need to take it slow in order to avoid feeling overwhelmed or burning out. Listen to your body, and rest when it tells you to. Aim for a realistic goal that you can stick to, such as exercising for 30 minutes a day.

Regaining Fitness with a Healthy Plan

Part of getting back into shape is to ensure that your body is getting the nourishment it needs, so make sure to stick to a healthy eating plan. A balanced diet is essential for getting back into shape, as it gives your body the fuel it needs to power your training sessions. Eating a nutritious diet can also help to boost your mental state, making it easier to stick to your fitness plan in the long run.

Re-establishing Routines for Physical Well-being

Once you have your diet in check, re-establishing a fitness routine is the next step. With a plan in place, make sure to choose activities that you actually enjoy. That way, you’re more likely to stick to them and make them a part of your everyday life. It’s also important to mix up your workouts and challenge yourself in different ways. That way, you can keep yourself from getting bored and continue to progress in your fitness.

Returning to Exercise with the Right Motivation

Motivation is a major part of any fitness journey, and it can be hard to find when you’ve been away from exercise for a long time. When getting back into shape, focus on your own personal goals and create rewards for yourself along the way. Celebrate any milestone or small successes, and be mindful of your progress. This way, you can stay motivated and keep your fitness goals in focus.

Getting back into shape after a long slump can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right plan, mindset, and motivation, you can easily return to exercise and stick to it. From unlocking habits to finding the right motivation and making sure that your body is fueled with the right nutrients, these seven tips provide a great starting point for getting back into shape after a long slump.

Sources

• Rizzo, H. (2014). Exercise After Injury or Illness: How to Safely Get Back Into Shape. Verywell Fit. Retrieved April 27, 2020, from https://www.verywellfit.com/how-to-get-back-into-shape-after-injury-or-illness-3496040
• Stopa, K. (2018). 8 Steps for Getting Back Into Exercise After Time Off. Healthline. Retrieved April 27, 2020, from https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/getting-back-into-exercise
• Jones, M. (2017). 5 Tips to Get Back into Shape After a Long Break. ACE Fitness. Retrieved April 27, 2020, from https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/blog/5830/5-tips-to-get-back-in-shape-after-a-long-break

Getting back into shape after a long slump can be daunting, but with the right plan and mindset, it can be done. With these seven tips, you can return to exercise and stay motivated along the way as you progress in your fitness. Focus on your goals and celebrate your successes, and you can easily get back into shape and achieve your fitness goals.