The summer months are nearly at their end, we hope you enjoyed a few leisurely and indulgent days. But that relaxation often comes with a pinch of guilt - for not sticking to our usual routines, meal plans or workouts. So join us to find out ways to navigate that post-summer guilt and reignite your workout routines.
When we’ve had a few days, weeks or even a couple of months out of routine, returning to them can feel 10 times harder can’t it? Perhaps we’re nervous about our abilities after a break, or will we be able to keep up, or even will we be stiffer than a stiff thing after one session back? It can be enough to put anyone off, so we’re here with the tips and tools you need to get back into it and break down those little barriers that can crop up after a break.
We know the importance of regular exercise for both our health and mental wellbeing, especially around here, and sometimes knowing this fuels that guilt further. Maybe it spurs a little panic in you that you’ll start feeling unwell or uneasy as a result of not working out as often as you might when it’s not the height of summer or you're off on your jollies.
The absence of consistent exercise during the holidays can cast a shadow over our well-being goals. However, it's essential to approach this situation with self-compassion and a realistic outlook.
Let's explore effective strategies to manage those post-summer guilt pangs and rejuvenate our workout routines:
1. Embrace Self-Compassion: Instead of dwelling on the perceived "slip-up" in your exercise routine (or any healthy habits), acknowledge that breaks are an integral part of rejuvenation. Be kind to yourself, understanding that a balanced approach to life includes periods of rest.
2. Set Realistic Expectations: It's natural to want to dive headfirst into intense workouts to make up for lost time. However, setting overly ambitious goals can lead to burnout or injury. Start with achievable targets and gradually build up your intensity, allowing your body to readjust gradually.
3. Reconnect with Activities You Love: Rekindle your workout routine by engaging in activities you genuinely enjoy. Whether it's dancing, swimming, hiking, or yoga, opting for activities that bring you joy can help dispel the resistance to getting back on track.
4. Involve a Friend: Enlist a workout buddy to join you on your fitness journey. Having a companion can make exercise more enjoyable and provide you with the added motivation you might need after a break.
5. Set a Schedule: Establishing a flexible workout schedule can help integrate exercise seamlessly into your routine. Whether it's early morning sessions or evening workouts, a predictable schedule makes it easier to prioritise exercise - but flexibility is key because all sorts of disruptions can get in the way.
6. Try Something New: If the thought of resuming your usual routine doesn't excite you, consider trying new activities. Exploring fresh workouts, classes, or sports can reignite your enthusiasm and creativity. Or infuse variety into your activities, combining cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility workouts can keep things interesting.
7. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate each milestone you achieve on your fitness journey. Whether it's completing a challenging workout or consistently exercising for a week, these small victories can boost your confidence and motivation.
8. Focus on Long-Term Goals: Instead of fixating on the immediate aftermath of the holidays, shift your focus to your long-term health and well-being goals. Remind yourself that consistency over time is more valuable than sporadic intense efforts.
Managing feelings of guilt after a summer hiatus from exercise is a common experience. However, it's crucial to approach this phase with self-compassion and a realistic mindset. And don’t forget, if the holiday blues hit, a bit of exercise really boosts your mood - and you never know, that might kickstart your routines again.
By gradually reintroducing exercise, embracing enjoyable activities, and adding variety to your routine, you can reignite your workout regimes and put those post-summer blues to rest. Remember, your fitness journey is a continuous path, and with patience and dedication, you'll find yourself back in the groove before you know it.