Back to the Gym - Part I

Guess who's back... you! Who else?! Holidays are done with, Summer is slowly slipping away, and so is probably time for a little seasonal reset. So in this article, we'll go through some simple tips on how to prep your 'post holidays' routine and prevent it from getting off track. Just like a Spring cleaning, or better yet an Autumn cleaning, let's set up the mood to make the most out of the next few months.

Adapt your training plan

...or just get one.

Even if you don't want to dive into PT sessions just yet, you can have someone make a plan that fits your needs. And as I always stress, your needs will vary according to several things, such as what level you are at, your health, your life circumstances and even your personality. That's why having someone supporting you on this is key for a start. If you have a plan but have been following it for a while, or if you were following a programme adapted to hot weather conditions, then it's probably time for a revamp! Contact me if you need help with this. And if you're at that point when you're thinking about whether PT is for you or not, maybe have a look at my recent blog about Why everyone can benefit from a coach regardless of their level.

If you don't follow a plan that is adequate for you, and especially adequate for your circumstances throughout the cold season, this should be your priority.

Don't overdo it

If you're coming from a break, make sure you get back into it at the right pace to avoid injuries - and disappointments.

And to help you with this, I created a free Bridge Comeback program. Just head over to my Plans & Pricing page and scroll to the bottom to access it!

It's a 3-week transitioning programme to get you back to speed - of course, if you like it, you can run it for longer. Just don't forget to adjust the weights to keep it challenging over time ;)

Time it wisely

Many people prefer training early in the morning during Summer (or late in the evening, for the night owls), to avoid the peak of the heat. However as the year goes by and the days get shorter, these times will become progressively darker and colder... Most people would rather stay in bed, or curl on the sofa with a hot drink and cosy socks. Or not. I'm more of a "warm torso, warm body' type of guy. But I know how many of you cold feet people love some good ol' cosy socks.

If you find it harder and harder to wake up early or make that extra effort late in the evening, just adjust your training schedule.

Maybe consider exercising during your lunch break. Or right after work while you have some momentum - i.e. before sinking into the sofa. Or maybe make some prep the day before, so you can still work out before work but not so early as you used to. You can also make some of your sessions shorter and save the longer workouts for the days off.

Plus, you won't feel cold during a nice gym session. Think about that ;)

Eat, Sleep

Make sure you are eating adequately. The last thing you want is to add 'hungry' to the list of moody symptoms that one generally feels when the sunny season ends.

Plus less sun, colder, etc. all of these will take a heavier toll on your immune system. So keep that in mind and load on all the healthy, nutritional seasonal foods, such as Aubergine, Apples, Beetroot, Blackberries, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Butternut squash, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celeriac, Celery, Chestnuts... and so much more!

Also, sleep. I guess this one doesn't warrant much explanation, but just to make it super clear: make sleep a priority.

Sleep is underrated these days. Really. It's a simple way to keep your body - and mind! - regulated. And it's free! Don't let it slide to the bottom of your "to-do list".

There are many other things you can do, but in a first things first fashion, let's keep this short and sweet, and go through some more stuff in the next one.

Speak soon!

Train ComplEat,

Coach G