3 Tips To Get Back Into Movement After A Long Hiatus
Hiatus? Is something else going on in the world that would have distracted you from your normal routines? Hmm. I hadn’t noticed . . .
Please tell me you caught that sarcasm. Our lives have been completely upended in the last two years and I’d like to just put it on record - it’s OK if you haven’t pulled yourself up by whatever straps and/or got back into the shape you were in post-pandemic.
That being said;
If you’re interested in getting back to a certain feeling in your body or some outside catalyst is looking for you to get moving on a consistent basis (health, anxiety, stress, etc.) here are some tips to get started.
Create a New Routine
Think of your brain as pattern recognition software. The more you do an activity or repeat a thought, it becomes second nature in a way, and your body begins to crave it.
This idea perfectly aligns with our favorite mind-body exercise - Pilates. Essentially, the mind-body connection means that you can learn to use your thoughts to positively influence some of your body's physical responses, thereby decreasing stress, allowing us to move more efficiently, and correcting movement patterns that are no longer serving us.
Creating a routine and incorporating Pilates not only share the benefits of moving and feeling better in your physical body, but they will also lead to:
Better stress levels then lead to improved mental health, more time to relax, and less anxiety.
Better sleep, leaving you refreshed. Your sleep schedule and bedtime habits affect your mental sharpness, performance, emotional well-being, and energy level.
Better overall happiness. If you have a schedule, you can build in time for play. Not to mention, creating a routine will also force you to schedule rest days, and we know that resting your muscles 24-48 hours between workouts, especially when training heavy, you'll stay injury-free and get stronger.
My last recommendation on this one is to start small. Add/change one thing in your routine at a time and let it sink in before doing more.
Bring A Friend
Accountability; I know you’ve heard that term before. I’d like to take the seriousness of that word down a notch and suggest that getting a friend to start a movement routine with or go to class with can simply be more fun!
Here are a few ways to get into it:
Make a challenge list to try a new class for a few weeks until you find the energy that both of you connect with.
Find a class time that works for both of your weeks and make a point to always go together. Eventually, it’ll be something you miss when you have weeks off!
If group classes aren’t your thing, split the cost of a duet private session and enjoy a little more personal attention!
Schedule a little busy? The good news is, online classes are here to stay and there are formats out there for any time duration you could possibly need! If you can only move for 20minutes a day - but you weren’t moving at all before? You’ve won. Check out Fuse360 for the full offering!
Take advantage of having work friends! You’re already on relatively the same schedule so you can take movement breaks throughout the day and check-in with each other. Take a look at their calendar and throw on a surprise movement meeting.
Try Something New
This one doesn't need much explanation. And just for emphasis, the body actually does better with some variation in the ways in which we exercise. Adaptive resistance is real!
Are you only happy when you can hear your heartbeat in your ears? Try a mat or reformer class to get the heart rate elevated in a totally different way. The strength training will only boost your performance in cardio activities and at the same time, will help protect your joints and muscles from the wear and tear that many cardio activities cause.
Have you bent and stretched every way possible? Switch it up by trying a Fuse Ladder class, Fuse bounce, or even reformer jump! These classes have a fairly low barrier to entry for those who are new to cardio or haven’t loved it in the past. The upbeat energy and natural endorphins you build will leave you feeling invigorated and ready to take on anything.
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In conclusion, I leave you three reasons why now is the right time to add movement back into your life.
Exercise is nature’s painkiller. When you exercise, your brain’s hypothalamus and pituitary gland produce neurochemicals called endorphins (those are the chemicals that cause runners high). Also, neurotransmitters like serotonin or norepinephrine help teach your body how to better respond to stressors. Studies even show that low levels of both are linked to depression and anxiety. So, higher levels of these chemicals, naturally, make you feel good!
You’re practicing self-control and building brainpower. Aside from increasing energy, research shows exercise helps boost your learning ability and your ability to practice self-control.
Life Feels Easier. If you could get through your day in a physically easier way, wouldn’t that be nice? If lugging groceries and children, or moving items around the house were easier, wouldn’t you be happier? Movement can do that for you! Increase strength, improve your cardiovascular fitness, and life just feels easier!
Stay #fusehardcore