Life has a funny way of throwing unexpected curveballs our way, and sometimes, those curveballs come in the form of illness. Whether you've been sidelined by a pesky cold or faced a more serious health setback, the returning to exercise can feel daunting, uninspiring and just plain hard - to the point that sometimes we put it off for far too long, or maybe even never get back into it again. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the journey of bouncing back and reclaiming your fitness practice after any forced break from the routine:
1. Listen to Your Body: The first rule of returning to exercise after illness? Listen to your body. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of getting back into your practice or class, but pushing yourself too hard too soon can do more harm than good. Pay attention to how you're feeling not only physically but also emotionally, so you're not suffering through something that doesn't make you feel good, and adjust your workouts accordingly.
2. Start Slow: Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is your fitness level. We often take our 'usual' fitness level for granted and don't always appreciate the hours of practice to get to that point, and equally how quickly even a minor injury or cold can effect us. Ease back into exercise with gentle, low-impact activities that won't put too much strain on your recovering body. Think brisk walks, light Pilates or gentle Yin Yoga to gradually rebuild your strength and stamina.
3. Set Realistic Goals: Returning to exercise after illness is not a sprint; it's a marathon. Set realistic goals for yourself based on your current fitness level and health status. And really notice the small victories along the way, whether it's completing a shorter session without feeling winded or increasing the intensity of your exercises gradually over time.
4. Prioritize Rest and Recovery: Just as important as exercise itself is rest and recovery. Your body needs time to heal and rebuild after illness, so don't skimp on sleep or neglect self-care practices like foam rolling, stretching, and relaxation techniques. Remember, recovery is an essential part of the fitness journey.
5. Be Patient and Kind to Yourself: Be patient with yourself as you navigate the ups and downs of returning to exercise after illness. There will be good days and bad days, but every step forward is a victory worth celebrating. And above all, be kind to yourself. You're doing the best you can, and that's more than enough.
6. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Last but not least, celebrate progress, not perfection. Your journey back to fitness may not always be smooth sailing, but every step forward, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction. So, celebrate the victories, learn from the setbacks, and keep moving forward with determination and resilience.
In conclusion, returning to exercise after illness is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs, setbacks and successes. But with patience, perseverance, and a little bit of self-compassion, you can bounce back stronger than ever and reclaim your health and fitness one step at a time. So, roll out your mat, reach for your favourite small equipment to make your first step back into your practice fun, take a deep breath, and trust in the journey ahead. You've got this!
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