10 Tips on Getting back to Exercise Routine after a Break …

January 25th, 2010 by john

Maybe you got sick or injured, or got bored, or went on vacation, or just got too busy at work or at school. Whatever the reason, you haven’t worked out in a while and you’re missing your routine. But how can you possibly get motivated after such a long break? Here are my top ten tips on getting back to your exercise routine after a break…

1. Re-evaluate the time and place

Photo Credit: I like

Did you stop going to your gym because it was out of your way, or because their hours didn’t support your schedule? If this is the case, then you may want to join another gym, one that’s closer to home or to work or school. It would also help to decide when to go, and make it the same time each day. I go every morning, directly after I drop my little one off at school. If the gym wasn’t right there, or if they weren’t open when I drop her off, I’d have to go somewhere else. Find a gym that is open at a time you know you’ll go there, and that you have to drive right past. If you have to drive past it every day, you’ll think about it more, right? Also, if you find you’re too tired to work out on the way home from school or work, then plan to do it before your day begins.

2. Look at your program

Photo Credit: marybeth coghill

If you stopped working out because it got too hard, or too boring, or your stopped seeing results, then it’s time to look at your routine and change it up a bit. Add something new! Tired of the view from that boring old treadmill? Try an elliptical or rowing machine, and choose another spot in the gym. Sick of sit-ups? Try crunches or leg-lifts instead. Try lifting weights one day, cardio exercises the other. Mixing it up will keep you interested for longer.