As states begin to open back up, some of you are considering returning back to your pre-COVID fitness routines. Whether that’s training for a fall race or taking fitness classes, there are a few things you should keep in mind as you settle into your new normal:
Avoid doing too much, too fast. Adding too much volume (running miles or lifting weights) is a one-way ticket to Injuryville. Time is on your side. Ease back into your exercise routine and gradually increase the volume to where you were before quarantine.
Set realistic goals and expectations. It may be a very long time until we return to our pre-COVID lives. The reality is that the world has changed forever - and that should include your goals and expectations, too! With social distancing, crowd limitations, and face masks becoming our new normal, large races, group fitness events, competitions, etc. may be cancelled. That doesn’t mean you can’t train again, it just means you have to set new
goals for yourself.
Focus on the things you can control. If you’re making your way back to a gym or studio, don’t let other people’s actions make you anxious or angry. If someone is closer to you than you’d like them to be, you can politely let them know or you can move to a more secluded space. If you can’t get into a class because of restrictions and limits, create a back-up plan. If people aren’t following CDC guidelines on the trail, find an alternate
route. It may not always be convenient but it will be better for your sanity.
, if you’re not ready to get back in the gym or run outside but you want to follow a fitness program again, check out City Fit Girls Strength Club, our online training community for women. We’re starting a new cycle next week so now is the perfect time to jump in.
P.S. Run Club - We know that PA will be entering the Green phase soon but we’ll continue to hold off group runs until further notice.
