Getting Back to Exercise in the Spring
March is here and spring is just around the corner. That means warmer weather, longer days and a return from winter “hibernation.” Many people decrease the amount of exercise that they do during the winter. Colder temperatures, less daylight and the holiday season are often reasons why. However, now that spring is nearly here, it’s a great time to get back into a regular exercise routine.
Here are some tips for returning to exercise this spring.
Start Slow
Starting slow is important for avoiding injury and other issues. This is especially true if you have not exercised in quite some time. Just because you used to be able to do certain exercises, or workout for a certain period of time, it doesn’t mean that you’ll still be able to do so after a long time away from exercising. Start slow, listen to your body and gradually build up the intensity and length of your workouts.
Go Outside
Now that the weather is getting better, you’ll likely want to spend more time outside. Take advantage of this situation and bring your exercise routine outside. Go for a walk, hike, bike ride, jog or other outside activity. Not only will you feel better, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the spring weather.
Create a Schedule
You might find it difficult to find time to exercise, especially if you haven’t done so in a while. This is why it’s so important to create an exercise schedule and stick to it. Write down your schedule at the beginning of the week or month and structure it around your life, making it possible to exercise regularly. If you miss a workout, don’t beat yourself up and quit. Revise your schedule and keep going!
Keep a Workout Diary
Writing down your workouts as you complete them has several benefits. One major one is that doing so will inspire you to keep going. Not only will the act of writing things down push you to continue working out, but it will also make it easier for you to track your progress, which is a great way to motivate yourself.
Exercise with Someone
It’s often easier (and more fun!) to work out with a friend or personal trainer. Working out with someone else is great motivation and it’s also a great way to socialize with your friends! Instead of meeting for drinks, why not meet for a walk on a warm spring day?
There are a number of benefits to exercising regularly. You’ll feel better, be happier, improve your overall health, reduce your risk of many diseases, sleep better and, overall, increase your quality of life.
Enjoy spring!
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