Many of us are experiencing anxiety about returning to indoor group fitness and it's completely normal to feel this way.
Exercising in public
Going back to the gym or your exercise class after such a long break from it is quite a daunting thing. The way we think we look, what others might think of us, are we wearing the right fitness clothes? Even our size can stop us from wanting to enter those halls or gyms. If you feel this way you are not alone.
All of these things are on our minds. I remember going into a gym for the very first time, even after a one-to-one session my brain went into a complete fog and I couldn't remember how to work the machines, which weight should go back on which rack. To be honest I couldn't wait to get my workout done and get out.
Whether you chose to wait a little longer or you're ready here are a few things to consider.
Build it up gradually
Whilst you might be keen to get back to your class or the gym keep in mind that it may take a little while to build up your strength and mobility again. There is no point in trying to push your body too soon, if you're concerned speak to your fitness teacher ahead of the class and explain how you feel, find out if the class is going to be right for you. The last thing you want to do is overdo it and end up exhausted or with an injury.
Allow your body to get used to it and build up your strength slowly, it's important not to run before you can walk.
But research has also shown that lockdown has also resulted in a resetting of priorities and an increased motivation to exercise post-lockdown with 61% of women surveyed stating that they will put more effort into being fit and active after lockdown is over.
The Benefits of Exercise
Exercise brings with it a number of benefits:
Improved overall fitness, strength, and flexibility
Increased muscle tone
Improved blood circulation
Reduced weight
Stress relief
Better sleep
Improved mental wellbeing
Prepare yourself
There are a few things you can do that might help, one is preparing yourself mentally. Think about what sort of class would suit you, do want something low impact? Would you like to exercise to music? What about asking a friend if they would like to join you? What time of day suits you best and how many times a week would you like to workout?
When you are exercising wear something comfortable, our classes are completely non-judgemental, you wear what you want to wear. Don't worry about anybody else as long as you have the freedom to move, that's all that matters.
If you have been sedentary you might prefer a Pilates type class as this is non-weight bearing and could be more gentle on your joints.
Remember there is no pressure to go back to a face to face classes or gyms. Since the pandemic more women now are choosing to take their exercise online. There are so many options to choose from.
Hopefully, these tips will help you make the right decision for you. For more information on our online and face-to-face classes go to the 'group exercise' page on our website to find out how we can help you get active again.