That said, you will be sore if you’ve just reintroduced exercise into your life. You don’t want to blow it by skipping workouts due to simple soreness. If you’re new to or reintroducing exercise, make sure to take precautions to reduce soreness later.
To do this, warm up and cool down after every workout and take it slow. For example, if you haven’t run for quite some time, begin with a Couch to 5K training program. You’ll walk and run at intervals to get your body used to your new routine. And if you’re adding exercise classes to your life, start by taking the low-impact options. Most instructors will give you a range of intensity for the moves they teach. Don’t be embarrassed to take the less intense route. You’ll still get an amazing workout.
- You’re swamped.
We all get busy. Once in a while, this makes for an A-OK reason to skip a workout. So if your schedule doesn’t allow, don’t freak out. One day isn’t going to make or break your routine. Just jump back on the bandwagon tomorrow.
And if you just can’t stand missing an exercise session, shorten your workout. Do a few planks and pushups early in the morning. Or take a brisk walk during your lunch break. Any way you look at it, you’ve still done something to benefit your body, mind and spirit.
Yoga makes for a great way to unwind on busy days. It’s the perfect combination of moving your body and calming your mind at the same time. You can even find yoga videos on YouTube for a quick at-home session. Or you can do simple downward dogs before or after work to get a much-needed stretch.