Exercise seems easy when you are in a good flow and have been working out regularly over an extended period of time. But when you take a break, whether due to illness or a hectic schedule, it can be hard to get back into it. Luckily, we have some easy tips for you!

Take it Slow and Simple

Any time you are starting a new workout routine, whether it is a new form of exercise or because you haven’t worked out in a while, you should always take it slow. This goes for everyone, whether you used to do 3 workouts a week or were a trained athlete. Your body needs time to adjust and get back into regular workouts.

Start with lower impact workouts a few days a week, then gradually work your way up to longer workouts, more intense ones, and more days of the week.

Increase Activity Through NEAT

Another great option is to think less of scheduled workouts, and more about other forms of activities. This refers to NEAT, or non-exercise activity thermogenesis. NEAT includes all activities that require you to move any part of your body, but aren’t considered “exercise”. For example, walking from your living room to your kitchen isn’t really considered going for a walk, but it is still NEAT. The same goes for fidgeting, standing to cook, playing with your dogs, and so many other activities during the day.

Take More Rest Days When Needed

In the beginning, you will probably need more rest days than you might have when you were consistent with your workouts. Embrace these and give your body and muscles the rest it needs! This might mean a rest day every other day, or at the very least, taking the weekend off. Don’t jump right in to 6 workouts a week just because that is what you used to do.

Track Your Progress and Set Goals

Lastly, set some small goals to achieve and track your progress. Again, be realistic with these fitness and health goals, remembering that you haven’t exercised in a while. The first goal might be just to move your body 3 days a week, 30 minutes a day. Then you can set more specific goals like being able to hold a plank for 30 seconds, adding in 1-2 days of weight training, doing a pull-up, or being able to do a full push-up.

-Exercising is not a competition but a way to sculpt your body to maintain good health. Still, when you are out of breath after a period of exercise, you need to learn how to breathe to recover better. So, dear Internet users and followers, do the best you can to manage your appearance. See you soon!

– Anne-Vasthi