Wanting to resume exercise safely this New Year?
As we welcome in the new year, many of us are looking to adopt healthier habits, and for some, that includes reintroducing exercise into our lives after an extended hiatus. A frightening study reports only 24% of adults meet their weekly strength and cardio exercise targets! Here’s how to get you moving again, in a safe & sustainable way that will minimise your risk of injury.
Embrace Enjoyable Movement
Instead of fixating on daunting fitness objectives, focus on discovering movement that your body genuinely enjoys. Whether it's yoga, walking, swimming, Pilates, or cycling, choose an activity that feels good and aligns with your preferences. Starting from a place of enjoyment lays the foundation for consistent engagement.
Gradually Return to Exercise
A gradual reintroduction to exercise is crucial for safety. Rushing into intense workouts after a period of inactivity can increase your risk of injury. Begin with shorter sessions at a lower intensity and gradually progress over time. This approach allows your body to adapt and reduces the likelihood of strain or overexertion. As the saying goes “injury comes from doing too much, too soon after doing too little for too long.” Watch out for ‘New Year New Me’ traps that see you diving into bootcamps or high-intensity programs when your body is not used to it, only to find them unsustainable or leading to injuries. Look for trained professionals who know how to ease you back into exercise.
Identify Your Purpose
Understand why exercise is important to you. Whether it's for physical health improvements, stress relief, mental clarity, or achieving specific fitness goals, clarifying your motivations helps in staying committed. Focusing on the journey and the intrinsic value of exercise rather than solely fixating on end results can make the process more fulfilling. Exercise should be enjoyable and intrinsically motivating, not punishment.
Seek Supportive Communities
Motivation can wane, making consistency challenging. Consider joining supportive groups or involving friends who share similar fitness aspirations. Surrounding yourself with individuals who encourage and inspire can significantly boost your commitment levels, especially during moments of wavering motivation.
Returning to exercise after some time out doesn't have to be overwhelming or intimidating. By adopting a progressive and sustainable approach, you can gradually reintegrate movement into your life while reaping its numerous physical and mental benefits.
Remember, the goal isn't perfection—it's about establishing a healthy, consistent routine that aligns with your body and lifestyle. Celebrate your progress, stay patient with yourself, and enjoy the journey toward a healthier you in 2024.
If you are interested in joining Pilates then here are some great deal we have this New Year!
- 10 Reformer Class Pass- for every 10 Pass sold this month we will gift you 2 extra Reformer Classes to give to a friend or loved one. Enjoy bringing a loved one with you this month & keep you motivated to move more & start your year on the right foot.
Please email us to redeem offer, limited to 1 per client & only available on our 10 Reformer Class Pass. Offer ends 8th February 2024.
- Post Natal Pilates is back! We have an extraordinary 6 week Reformer Pilates programme, led by a Womens Health Physio. If you have recently had a baby and are looking to restore your core & pelvic floor then this course is for you.
+ for the next month we are offering a fantastic deal in conjunction with this. Sign up for our next Post Natal Course and you can choose to add on an individualised Pelvic Health Assessment for an extra $100 (RRP $150). This Assessment includes a Pelvic Health Physio reviewing your abdominals, pelvic floor and pelvis- and assessing for common post-natal injuries like prolapse, incontinence and abdominal separation. You will be provided with an individualised rehab programme to help you regain confidence & strength to return to the things you love to do.