Back to School, Back to the Gym

Motivation 101

Published on 9 August 2017
by Philippe Morvan

BACK FROM SUMMER VACATIONS

For most of us, summer rhymes with vacation. Between days spent relaxing at the beach, trekking in the forest, or barbecuing with the family, time really flies, and it is already time to go back to school. For both students and parents, the return to a daily routine often entails going back to the gym. After a summer filled with well-deserved moments of relaxation, it is time to get back into shape. 

AVOID DOING TOO MUCH TOO FAST

In September, with all the best intentions in the world and with overflowing energy, people go back to the gym to get back to a more regular training routine. Because their motivation is at its peak, here are a few useful tips to help them make a successful return to the gym:

1. UNDERSTAND THAT YOUR PHYSICAL CONDITION MIGHT HAVE CHANGED DURING THE SUMMER

Because summer and leisure rhyme, several people neglect working out during the summer, you should never try to pick up your workout routine where you left off. Get back to your routine one step at a time, and if necessary, reduce its intensity, that way, you will be able to better appreciate the benefits of working out. Don’t forget that your trainer remains the best allied you can have to get you started on the right foot. They are available to build you a personalised program, corresponding to your fall fitness goals.

2. SET UP A WORKOUT SCHEDULE YOU WILL BE ABLE TO COMMIT TO

Wanting to go back to the gym seven days a week does not make sense, it usually does not last more than three weeks. Take your time, let things settle down before increasing your visits to the gym. After all, assessing the load of work and homework awaiting us when returning from vacations is not an easy task.  

3. FOCUS ON SHORTER BUT MORE FREQUENT WORKOUTS

Workouts lasting 30–45 minutes will be easier to include into your routine. Whether during your lunch hour, after work, or between studying and homework, it will be easier to include a short 30-minute workout session to your schedule than a longer one.

THINK STRATEGICALLY, MAKE A SUCCESSFUL LASTING RETURN TO THE GYM!

Philippe Morvan
Kinesiologist and training supervisor