Returning to the gym? Why you should take it easy…

I can’t believe the date’s come around so fast BUT GYMS ARE BACK TOMORROW! After a whole year of being pretty much closed gyms are finally reopening. Although many of us are ready and raring to go it’s important to remember to take caution when you return.

So why should we take it easy when we transition from home workouts to gym workouts? 

A lot of people will have had limited access to equipment so won’t have been able to lift any heavy weights. This is why it’s really important to start slow and then gradually build up strength again, in order to prevent injuries and major DOMs. I would recommend starting around 40-60% lighter than you were doing before, then gradually build it up slowly over the coming weeks

Focus on the basics! You may not be as fit or as strong as you were before, so make sure you focus on the fundamental moving patterns before advancing to the more complex and compound movements.

Recovery! This is a really important thing to keep in mind when you return to increasing your all round training. Make sure you warm up and activate the muscles you want to use in your training session. A cool down will also be beneficial in helping the muscles recover to their normal state post training. Nutrition and sleep will also aid recovery as well as prepare you for your sessions. It’s important to fuel your body both pre and post training.

In order to gain results and get consistency with your training, make sure you plan your workouts. If you’re not sure how to really maximise your workouts through planning, I’d definitely recommend getting a professional's advice (I offer online personal programming click here). Workout plans are super helpful in allowing you to smash your goals, improve target areas and track your progress. Being held accountable for your workouts and having a thorough workout schedule to follow really makes life a lot easier! 

In conclusion, it’s great that we are getting the chance to return to the gym, but it’s so important to bear in mind that slow and steady wins the race! If you follow my tips above, you’ll be back to full strength and fitness before you know it! If you would like any support with transitioning back to the gym, why not book in for a free consultation with me? If you’d like more information, email info@gracebrownfitness.com