The approach to exercise usually starts out with a bang! Timetables with impressive exercise routines are drawn up, we even ‘invest' in good health by taking a gym membership. Why is it that only a handful are still consistent 3-6 months later? Good intentions are not enough when it comes to exercise. Neglecting exercise once in a while is okay, you need to listen to your body and rest when needed. But missing exercise for more than a week at a stretch is not good.
When this happens getting out of shape is easy, it depends on how long you have stopped with exercise. If you are fit, getting out of shape takes longer. But if you are overweight and have stopped exercising after a month or two, chances are you will regain the lost pounds sooner as the body is constantly trying to achieve a state of balance or homeostasis. When you skip exercise for over 2 weeks, lean muscle mass, cardiovascular health and insulin sensitivity reduce.
How do I get back?
Getting back to fitness and exercise may not be the easiest thing to do. Talk to a counsellor for motivation and better time management or take a friend with you this time round as you start your routine again. Do not start with the same high intensity exercises you discontinued with, but start slow. It's not a bad thing to be a beginner again. Once you get used to the routine you can increase the duration of exercise or reps. This should be a gradual process to prevent any exercise related injury which could cause another setback.
Time management
Other reasons you miss exercise could be due to lack of time. Try and make up for this on the weekends. During the day do not be sedentary but keep active as a form of fitness. Schedule exercise at a time where you are not likely to miss or skip it in case other engagements come up.
Motivation and Goals
Setting short term goals is a great way of keeping yourself motivated. Talk to your Fitness trainer and Dietitian about what you would like to achieve. The more detailed you are the better, do not be vague with goals and say you want to ‘lose weight', but be specific. If your goal is to lose 5 kgs over 2 months, tell them so they can plan your diet and exercise routine accordingly. Once you taste success it's easier to move on to the next set of goals without slacking.
Energy boost
Do you side-line exercise because you are too tired? Perhaps the reason you are drained of energy is because you do not exercise. Our body needs movement and exercise; it keeps the heart healthy, flushes out toxins and keeps you light. All these give you an energy boost, you feel good and more confident about yourself. If you are feeling under the weather, try to exercise at a comfortable pace, do not push yourself. A workout might actually help as it boosts immunity by flushing out toxins and infections through sweat and urination.
That time of the month
Working out during your period is beneficial as exercise helps relieve period-related mood swings, anxiety, fatigue, and headaches. Exercise during the rest of the month also helps to ease the cramps caused at this time. Again take exercise slow and do not push yourself. If you have been advised by your doctor to avoid exercise at this time completely, then it's best to take a break. Though Yoga is excellent for flexibility and toning, some yoga poses are not advisable, ask your doctor what is best at this time.
Remember that- "All battles are won or lost in the mind". - Joan of Arc
Taking care of your self is a job. You do not wake up one day and decide you will not go to work for an extended period of time, because you know the consequences. Approach exercise the way you work- with dedication, motivation and enthusiasm!