3 Tips for Exercising Again After a Long Break

If you’re new to exercise or are coming back after a long break, the thought of exercising again can be daunting — but it’s essential! Exercise has numerous benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases, improving mental health, and boosting energy levels. However, it’s crucial to start small and work your way up gradually to avoid injury and burnout.

1. Avoid Too Much Too Soon

One of the most significant mistakes people make when starting to exercise is trying to do too much too soon. This can lead to injury, frustration, and ultimately giving up. Instead, start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.

According to the American Heart Association, even 10 minutes of exercise a day can have significant health benefits. This can include activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming. We also recommend taking our motivating live classes; even though they’re listed as 45 minutes long, you can do the warm-up portion for a great 10-minute workout, and then log off! We never judge our awesome participants … we truly want everyone to feel welcome at any level. (If you’re feeling self-conscious, you can keep your camera and mic off!)

Starting with a small amount of exercise will help you build momentum and establish a routine. Once you feel comfortable with 10 minutes a day, you can gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts.

2. Do What You Enjoy

Another important factor to consider when starting to exercise is finding an activity that you enjoy. If you hate running, don't force yourself to do it. Instead, try different activities until you find something that you enjoy. This could be anything from dancing to yoga to weightlifting. When you enjoy the activity, you are more likely to stick with it and make it a part of your daily routine.

3. Rest Matters

It’s also essential to listen to your body and take rest days when needed. Rest days are crucial for allowing your body to recover and prevent injury. Overtraining can lead to burnout and make it harder to stick with your exercise routine in the long run.

If you’re new to exercise or just getting back to it, remember that a little bit goes a long way. Ten minutes is always better than 0 minutes. Start small, be consistent, and enjoy the journey to a healthier you.

If you want customized guidance, consider starting with a Coaching Session. We’ve helped so many people come up with a realistic plan that fits into their lifestyle and needs. It’s never too late to start!

Sources:
Cherie Lamb
American Heart Association, Get Moving: Easy Tips to Get Active
Harvard Health Publishing