"I used to be able to do 10 pull-ups, now I can barely do 3. Six months ago I was squatting 225, now I'm only squatting 175, what happened?"
We've all heard this talk, either directly from our own mouths or from someone we know who's a gym regular. It's tough when we have a fall from "fitness grace," but the truth is, it happens. Our bodies and minds need breaks from time to time, not to mention that life does occasionally get in the way of our fitness goals, but it's OK and you can bounce back. Whether it's been an intentional break, "I've just been super busy trying to survive" break, an injury, age, or other circumstance, there is no need to panic, you can get back on track and get back into your fitness groove, but it will take consistency and determination. Here are some strategies to help you along the way.
The first step in getting back on track requires you to forget about what you used to be able to do and focus on what you can do now. Yes, we have all had the beautiful glory days when our bodies were capable of amazing things, but over time, our bodies and priorities change. We can also feel out of shape from a simple two month break from the gym, but the good news is that you can get back to being in good shape for where you are NOW in life. Stop focusing on what you used to be able to do, whether 20 years ago or two months ago, and focus on the here and now. I always tell people to look at it as an opportunity to start fresh and refocus on your goals.
Next step, stop comparing yourself to others. It's easy to compare ourselves to others, whether it's comparing salaries or fitness capabilities. Realize that yes, there will always be someone that is fitter than you and that's OK! I always tell my class, it's you versus you. When you come to a group fitness class or step onto the treadmill, it's not about anybody else, it's about you. Maybe the girl next to you has all the time in the world to work out or the guy at the squat rack is prepping for a power-lifting competition. The point is, you're not them and they are not you. Workout for you, to help you feel better, to help you be a better mother, father, or employee.
How do you get back to your best self, you ask? It's been my experience that we can't be in peak condition all the time. There are "off" periods for everyone, whether you're a regular gym goer or a collegiate athlete. So, if you've had a break for whatever reason, start slowly to get back into your groove. It's easy to want to jump back into where you left off, but that may spell disaster if you're not careful. Stay consistent! If you want to be better at pull-ups (my nemesis) or any other exercise, then do that exercise! Commit to coming to the gym on a regular basis and follow a smart program. If necessary, enlist the help of one of our trainers to help get you refocused and motivated again. I know it feels like we get out of shape over the weekend, but the truth is our muscles do have memory, so you'll be reaching that fitness peak before you know it!
Sometimes it's very hard to accept that we aren't as capable as we used to be, whether we're thinking about our high school athletic days or just simply six months ago. It's natural to have fitness highs and lows throughout our lives, but we can get back to feeling and looking good. It's important to accept your abilities and your body where you are now in life. Stop comparing yourself to others, it'll only make you feel worse and it'll distract you from focusing on what you need to do. Lastly, start slowly after a break and know that you might not be able to do everything you could do a couple of months ago, but with time you'll get there again. Grab a trainer to help you if you're unsure. We're here to help you reach your goals! Stay the course and in no time you'll be reaching your goals! Stay fit and enjoy life!
