How to Come Back from an Exercise Hiatus

Whether your hiatus from your exercise routine was forced by injury, illness, or an overbooked schedule, getting started again can be tough! 
 
 
Map Out a Plan
 
Make a plan!  Not only in your head but on paper, and better yet tell your friends and loved ones.  When you schedule your workouts and know exactly what you are going to do you will be more efficient and less likely to blow it off.  The more specific you are with your plan the better your rebound will go.  Not a big planner?  Having a personal trainer can be a great way to take the guess work out of designing just the right exercise program to help you reach your goals!

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Accept Where You’re At
 
Don’t push yourself to start where you left off.  Likely you will be slower and weaker from your time off.  Knowing and accepting this in advance can help you keep your motivation level high and help you keep going even when disappointed.  If you keep at it you will get back to your previous fitness levels.
 
Revisit the Basics
 
Test your body’s abilities slowly and gradually increase resistance and intensity.  A good rule of thumb: Start with about 10% less than the weight you previously used and rest after a couple of sets and see how you feel.  From there you can begin adjusting accordingly.  Main point is not to try and skip the steps that are important to keeping your workouts safe and effective.  Not listening to your body can cause injury and prevent you from making a comeback!
 
 
Get the Right Support System in Place
 
Your family, friends, coworkers, and personal trainer can all help you along the way to reaching your goals.  The input from your support system can both hinder and aid in reaching your health and fitness goals.  Make sure you seek out the support of those who aid and cheer you on!