I’ve returning to the gym that I’ve belong to for years after trying out some new gyms over the summer. It was interesting to see what was available to me and I didn’t get to check out as many as I intended. I may still go to some of the gyms that are further from my house just to see what they have to offer.
I decided that my gym was still a good option for me. It’s close to my house. I can drive there in five minutes. When I returned, it was good to be welcomed by people. Having people know your name has some value. (Of course, if you go to any gym, eventually they know your name.)
I decided to try some different classes once I returned to my gym. I thought it w would be good to see what was being offered in the classes. That has been fun. I’ve taken a few strength classes, a stretching and mobility class, a yoga class, and a Pilates Reformer demo class.
There were a couple of strength training classes I really enjoyed. I used kettlebells and dumbbells for some of the exercises. Body weight exercises were also popular. I ended up with some good workouts.
The yoga class made me realize that I really need to be going to yoga because I’m not nearly as flexible as I could be, and my balance is not great. Yoga would be a great way to get better at both.
A friend in my neighborhood recently joined the same gym and she’s very new to working out. I’ve taken her to some classes with me. It’s enjoyable to have some company. She has taken a liking to the yoga classes so I think that’s where she’s going to spend her time.
I have not been back to my bootcamp class because I felt that I should work my way back to it. It’s a strenuous workout and I liked starting my Saturday with that class so I suspect I’ll return soon.
Tips for Returning to the Gym
Here are some tips for returning to the gym after a long break:
- Start slowly. Don’t think you can start where you left off. You don’t want to return to the gym only to end up with an injury. This is true whether you are returning to strength training or endurance sports. Start with lower weights or run for a shorter distance. You’ll soon catch up to where you want to be.
- Try something new. You’re back after a break which can be exciting but it’s also a time to reevaluate your routine. Is there something new you can add to the mix? I tried some new classes and found some good options.
- Don’t forget to rest. Since it’s been a while, you might not want to return to the gym every day. Maybe take it a bit slower than you were doing before. Your body will need to recover as you adjust to the new fitness regime.
- This is a good time to set a goal and then track your progress. You’re starting with a clean slate so give yourself something to aim for. Personally, I’d love to find a bench press competition but haven’t managed to find one.
I’ll keep you posted on how I do with my workouts now that I’ve returned to the gym. Let me know if you have any suggestions on things to do when you’re ready to resume your fitness activities.
Your post about returning to the gym after a hiatus offers a thoughtful and relatable perspective on the journey back into fitness. The acknowledgment of the mix of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and a touch of apprehension—is something many can resonate with.
The emphasis on starting gradually, setting realistic expectations, and finding joy in the process is invaluable advice. It’s a refreshing perspective that encourages individuals to approach their fitness journey with self-compassion and a focus on well-being.
Thanks for sharing your insights and personal experience. Your post serves as a supportive guide for those contemplating a return to the gym, reminding them that it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Here’s to a fulfilling and enjoyable journey back into the fitness routine!
Baby steps always help me get back to it! I’ve had many restarts and find that even just getting to the door and doing one lap around the track helps me to get back into the habit!!
Chris