Took a break from fitness? Haven’t been coming as regularly as you’d like?
Sometimes getting back in to a more regular fitness routine can be more challenging than getting started. Why?
When we first start CrossFit we may not have much of a fitness baseline. Everything feels new, we PR every week and we start getting a decent understanding of what we’re capable of.
On the other hand, when we leave and come back we tend to compare every single thing we do with what we USED to be able to do.
‘Wow that 10 burpees made me feel like I was going to DIE. I used to be able to do 100’
‘Man, that 95lbs back squat felt horrible. My old max used to be 200’
‘I can barely run 200m without feeling out of breath. How will I ever feel normal during a workout again?’
….you get the point.
What’s more, you may look around at those around you and play the comparison game and start to feel uncomfortable. How can you get back to it without getting to discouraged?
Focus on the routine
When you’re first coming back or getting in to a more consistent schedule, that should be the only focus… consistency. Create a specific schedule you want to follow and make sure to get your feet in the door.
Don’t worry about the numbers
This may mean not paying any attention to weight or scores. Every workout for the first few weeks should have you feeling like you could’ve done more when you leave. Instead of “seeing where you’re at now”, keep your efforts around 75-80%. Added bonus, you won’t need to skip your next workout because you’re too sore!
Be patient
The feeling that you have coming back will not last forever if you’re consistent. Just keep showing up!
Find a friend that keeps you motivated.
Whether its a gym friend, a partner… finding someone that helps keep you motivated and accountable can go a long way!
Focus on recovery
Eating regular meals, getting enough sleep, hydration… these should all be top priority before you worry about bringing high intensity to your workouts.
Remember everyone is on their own journey
Everyone has ebbs and flows when it comes fitness.
Maybe you just went through some major life changes but the person next to you hasn’t.
Maybe you’re focused on your family but the person next to you doesn’t have one yet.
Maybe you have other priorities in life that bring fitness down a few notches but the person next to you has decided to make fitness their priority.
Whatever it may be, celebrate your journey and the journey of those around you. Fitness isn’t a sprint it’s a marathon.
Need someone more help from a Coach to get back? Schedule a chat here!