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Q:

How can I get back into shape after a long break from working out?

Hi everyone,

I used to be really active and fit, but I've had a pretty long break from working out due to a variety of reasons. Now that I'm ready to get back into shape, I'm feeling a bit lost and unsure where to start.

I used to enjoy running and weightlifting, but I know it's going to take some time for me to build up the stamina and strength I used to have. I'm also a bit intimidated by going to the gym since I haven't been in so long.

Does anyone have any advice on how to get back into the swing of things? What kind of workouts should I start with? Should I hire a personal trainer or try to figure it out on my own? Any tips or tricks are greatly appreciated. Thank you!

All Replies

moberbrunner

Hi there!

I can definitely relate to your situation as I took a long break from working out due to an injury. What really helped me was starting slow and gradually building up my strength and endurance. I started with simple exercises like walking, jogging and stretching for a few weeks before I moved on to more intense workouts like weightlifting.

I found that setting realistic goals for myself was really important. It helped me track my progress and stay motivated. I also started tracking my food intake to ensure that I was fueling my body properly.

Hiring a personal trainer was also really helpful for me, especially when it came to weightlifting. They were able to guide me on proper form and technique, which helped me prevent further injury.

Overall, my advice would be to start slow, set realistic goals, track your progress and seek guidance from a professional if needed. Good luck!

earline.hermann

Hey everyone,

I took a break from working out when I had my second child and found it difficult to find the motivation to start again. However, by setting small, achievable goals for myself, I was able to build up my confidence and eventually regain my fitness level.

One strategy that worked for me was finding a workout routine that fit my lifestyle. I started doing bodyweight exercises at home while the baby was napping, and it helped me make exercise a part of my daily routine again.

To keep things interesting, I incorporated different types of workouts, like dance fitness and Pilates. Engaging in a variety of workouts helped me work on different muscle groups and prevented me from getting bored.

Another tool that was useful for me was using a fitness app to track my workout and set achievable goals. It was motivating to see my progress over time, and it helped me stay consistent with my workouts.

Lastly, I would say that finding a support system was vital for me. Whether it was finding a gym buddy, hiring a personal trainer or joining a fitness group, having others to motivate and support me was a game-changer.

With patience and perseverance, you can get back into shape. Remember to set achievable goals, try different workouts, use an app to track progress, and find a support system. You got this!

ocruickshank

Hi there!

I remember being in the same situation a few years ago when I came back from a long backpacking trip and was out of shape. What really helped me was setting goals that were specific, measurable, and achievable.

I started with writing down a realistic plan, including milestones and deadlines I wanted to accomplish on a monthly basis. I found that having a structured plan helped me keep on track towards reaching my fitness goals.

To overcome the intimidation of the gym, I started going to classes like yoga or group fitness sessions. This not only helped me engage with others but also allowed me to try different workouts that I wouldn't have done on my own. Besides, some classes were also more routine-based, so it aided me in building steadiness and discipline.

Lastly, I made sure to change up my workout routine frequently to prevent boredom and to keep my body guessing. To make working out more enjoyable, I started listening to upbeat music and creating playlists that I could listen to while working out.

Above all, don't forget to celebrate small successes all along the way to stay motivated. Remember, progress takes time, so be patient with yourself and stay positive.

nienow.maverick

Hello!

I had a similar experience where I took a long break from working out due to a busy work schedule, but I recently made a commitment to get back into shape. One thing that really helped me was finding a workout partner who had similar fitness goals as me. We were able to hold each other accountable and motivate each other to push through tough workouts.

Another thing that helped me was creating a workout schedule and sticking to it. I found that if I scheduled my workouts into my calendar, I was less likely to skip them or make excuses. Consistency was key for me in regaining my fitness level.

When it came to choosing the right workouts, I focused on exercises that brought me joy and challenged me. For me, that meant incorporating more yoga and Pilates into my routine as well as some high-intensity interval training. I also made sure to switch up my routines to prevent boredom and plateauing.

Overall, I would recommend finding a workout buddy, creating a schedule, and choosing workouts that bring you joy as a good starting point. Just remember to be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. You got this!

brekke.cade

Hey there!

I completely understand how it feels to get back into the rhythm of working out after a long break. I recently had a baby and had to pause working out for a few months, so I can relate to your dilemma.

One thing that really worked for me was to start with some basic bodyweight exercises before transitioning to weights. Squats, lunges, and push-ups were my go-to exercises to start with. I also made it a point to do some high-intensity cardio routines to get my heart rate up and increase my metabolism.

Another strategy I used was joining a fitness group that met a few times a week. Having a community that shared similar fitness goals helped me stay accountable and motivated. We all focused on motivating, supporting and cheering each other, which helped get through tough days.

Lastly, I would suggest you to begin slow and give time to your body to rest between workouts. Give some days in between each workout to let your body recover and adapt to the newly imposed stress.

With consistency and time, you will definitely see progress. Don't give up, stay motivated, prioritize health, and focus on progress, not perfection.

Good luck!

zarmstrong

Hello everyone,

I, too, have had a break from working out due to an injury, and it was quite challenging for me to get back into shape. To rebuild my strength, I started with low-impact exercises, such as swimming, cycling, and walking, to avoid straining my body.

It was essential for me to listen to my body and not push myself too hard since doing so could lead to another injury. Instead, I focused on making gradual progress slowly by building upon small achievements. Celebrating even minor wins helped me stay motivated and kept me on track.

To stay accountable, I started tracking my workouts and food intake. It helped me see my progress and allowed me to identify the areas that required some improvement. Besides, by tracking my food, I could ensure that my workouts were not going to waste by filling up on junk food or throwing off the calorie balance.

Also, I would suggest varying your workout style and consider adding new exercises, like cycling or rowing, to keep things interesting. It will add much-needed variety and may help encourage you to maintain a consistent workout routine.

Finally, always remember that progress is a process and not something that happens overnight. You'll encounter setbacks along the way, but don't let that discourage you. Keep pushing through, stay supportive, and stay committed to your fitness goals, and you'll be back in shape in no time.

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