Sometimes its easy to find a groove with your fitness routine. But there are a number of unexpected events everything from sickness to a relaxing holiday that becomes extra relaxing that can take you off track.
The best way to get back to fitness after one of these disruptions? Well, for starters, beating yourself upwont help you get motivated. Theres nothing more taxing than feeling guilty and ashamed. Instead, embrace the fact that youll have to find a way to jump-start your routine.
Recently, an injury disrupted my whole system. My favourite physical activities yoga, hiking, running were inaccessible to me for a few months, after having been in a comfortable routine for some time. I had a choice: I could wallow or I could find new forms of movement that wouldnt compromise my injury or cause me pain. It was an opportunity for growth. Here are somelessons I benefited from:
Dont do things only one way
Although you may be connected to the routine you have, or one type of movement, it is really essential to apply a key life skill here: the ability to adapt. Shake things up every so often with a different workout.
Create a backup fitness plan
Think of a fitness backup plan as an insurance policy: Our fitness activities keep us in top form for handling lifes events and challenges. If you relied solely on one routine, then everything would fall apart if that gets derailed in any way. If your body is used to physical output, you may risk becoming slightly depressed when it stops movement, so be sure to have a small list of alternative ways you can get movement in, and most importantly, practice these every once in a while. Schedule one Plan B workout everytwo weeks, even if its not your favourite.
Get creative within your limitations
Even though you may have found what works for you, if you are disrupted or limited somehow, then its time to think outside the box. There are many options for physical movement, orhigh-impact mini-workouts for those who face timeconstraints.Ask fit friends about their workout preferences, ask a personal trainer to help you discover new exercises, or consult with a physiotherapist they are great resources for planning new forms of physical movement into your life.
Tolerate a learning curve for new exercises
If youve said yes to an exercise backup plan, be aware that you may take some time getting used to it. All mastery requires a stage of awkwardness. Also, keep your ego in check. It may convince you that because this new movement is awkward or difficult, that its not worth pursuing.
All throughout life we will be faced with distractions, disruptions and unforeseen events. Nothing can ever stay comfortably predictable. Committing to physical wellness involves much more than finding aroutine you like and sticking with it. Adaptiveness, combined with determination and a consistent readiness to step out of your comfort zone if need be are traits of lifelong fitnessdevotees.
Lara Williams, a Vancouver-based life coach, for FitnessGoop.com
