This article was written by a guest writer to help you ease yourself back into the gym. I have been compensated for my time sharing this with you.
Last weekend the government gave the green light to reopen gyms after weeks of lockdown. While this news is a huge relief for most gym enthusiasts, not everyone will be feeling the excitement. You might be wondering if it’s safe to return, or whether you’ll be able to pick up from where you left off if your fitness routine has dwindled during lockdown.
It’s safe to say that there are a lot of questions to be answered. If you want to get back into your gym routine but are feeling hesitant, we’re here to calm your nerves! Read our guidance on getting back to the gym safely.
Take it slow
Although online workouts and long walks in the park have been keeping our heart rates up during lockdown, if you’re a gym bunny, your fitness ability has probably changed without the same tools and equipment you’re used to.
It may be tempting to make up for the lost time and give it all you’ve got on your first day back at the gym, but don’t push yourself too hard. The last thing you need is injuries to set you back even further from getting to where you want to be. You might even consider hiring a qualified personal trainer to ease your way back into the gym slowly.
Opt for reduced-sized class workouts
Bigger isn’t always better. Small class sizes are a great way to prevent the spread of germs while still being able to enjoy working out with others. Most gyms have reduced their class sizes to almost half compared to pre-lockdown, so you’ll be able to participate in group workouts safely.
With so many different classes available, spicing up your gym routine will be a welcome break if you’ve been stuck doing the same home workout for months. If you’ve never tried group classes why not give it a go? Working out with others has been proven to boost your performance.
Stick to social distancing guidelines
The UK is finally easing its lockdown restrictions to ‘a new normal’, but we still need to make sure we are keeping ourselves safe. Stringent measures have been put in place to ensure all gyms are Covid-secure before reopening, including fever checks, floor markings and contactless entry.
Always remember to keep a safe distance from others while at the gym, and remember to wash or sanitize your hands before and after every workout. Another way to prevent the spread of germs is to bring your own equipment. This also keeps waiting times to a minimum, as equipment surfaces don’t need to be wiped down after every workout.
Consider other options
If you’re still not keen to return to the gym straight away, there are plenty of other ways to achieve a healthy and better quality of living without having to leave home. As long as you have a strong internet connection and a camera, you can access online workouts from pretty much anywhere. Need some inspiration? Why not check out live exercise classes on Youtube or Instagram? Lots of these are free! Or how about considering a home gym?
If you need some guidance without the help of a fitness instructor to lean on at the gym, you could also opt for a personal trainer. A personal trainer delivers workouts which are tailored to your goals and ability. Sessions can take place pretty much anywhere. Since it’s safer to exercise outside at the moment, why not ask your PT to have your sessions in the park? Weather permitting of course!
