- September 2, 2024 |
Life is constantly evolving, and with these changes often comes a disruption to our established routines, including our fitness habits. Whether it's a new job, a relocation, or evolving family responsibilities, keeping up with your workout regimen during these shifts can be challenging.
The transition from summer to fall, particularly around late August and early September, is a time when many of us face this challenge head-on as the school year begins. You might be heading back to school yourself, or perhaps your family, friends, or even your workout buddy are dealing with a changing schedule.
But don't worry! At Fitness 19, we’re committed to helping you maintain your fitness journey, no matter what curveballs life throws your way. The secret to staying consistent lies in adaptability and strategic planning. Let’s dive into some tips that will help you keep up the momentum:
1. Track and Celebrate Your Progress
Use a fitness app or a journal to keep track of your workouts. Seeing your progress in a tangible way can be a powerful motivator, especially when life feels chaotic.
Celebrate your consistency, no matter how small the achievement may seem.
2. Reevaluate and Prioritize
When your routine changes, it's crucial to take a step back and reassess. Review your new weekly schedule and pinpoint potential workout times. Remember, exercise is essential for both your physical and mental health, so treat it like an indispensable appointment with yourself.
Mark gym time on your calendar just as you would for an important meeting.
What if your usual workout slot is no longer feasible? Don’t stress—embracing flexibility is key.
3. Have a Home Workout Backup Plan
For those times when you simply can’t make it to the gym, be prepared with a home workout routine.
Sometimes, just tuning into something like Perspire.tv’s live workout platform can make it easier to stay on track without overthinking it. This could include bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, or even a nice walk in place of a workout.
While we love seeing you at Fitness 19, we understand that life can get in the way—and we want you to stay active regardless. In busy times, it’s more important to keep moving than to achieve the perfect workout.
4. Accountability is Key
Staying motivated when you’re working out alone can be tough, which is why finding an accountability partner is so valuable. Connect with a friend, family member, or another Fitness 19 member who shares similar fitness goals.
Check in with each other regularly, share your workout plans, and provide mutual encouragement. Having someone to answer to can significantly enhance your consistency.
5. Make the Most of Shorter Workouts
On those especially hectic days, remember that doing something is better than doing nothing. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) or circuit routines can deliver an effective workout in just 20-30 minutes. Don’t skip the gym just because you can’t fit in your usual hour-long session.
6. Adapt Your Workout Times
While sticking to a regular gym schedule is ideal, it’s not always realistic. Be open to adjusting your workout times. If you typically exercise after work but now have evening obligations, try getting your workout done in the morning.
When adjusting to a new schedule, what you eat and drink can have a big impact on your energy, performance, and comfort during exercise. Eating the wrong foods, especially close to workout time, can lead to discomfort such as constant burping, stomach pain, and bloating.
It's best to avoid heavy meals right before exercising; giving yourself at least 30 minutes to an hour between eating and working out can help prevent feelings of sluggishness and discomfort. Instead, opt for lighter meals that balance protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to fuel your workout.
Carbonated drinks, while hydrating, can cause bloating and increase burping during exercise, so it's best to stick to water or an electrolyte drink. After your workout, make sure to refuel with a combination of protein and carbs to support recovery, while avoiding unhealthy foods that can slow progress and cause digestive issues.
By being mindful of what you eat and drink around your workouts, you’ll avoid discomfort and stay on track with your fitness goals.
Fitness 19 locations offer extended hours to fit a variety of schedules, making it easier to find a time that works for you.
Remember, consistency doesn’t mean perfection. It’s about integrating fitness into your life as a regular habit, even when your schedule is unpredictable.
By planning ahead, staying adaptable, and implementing these strategies, you can maintain your workout routine and continue progressing towards your fitness goals.
At Fitness 19, we’re dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. With our extended hours, diverse class offerings, and supportive community, we’re here to help you stay consistent, no matter how life changes.
Stay strong, stay consistent, and keep striving towards your goals with Fitness 19!