As the summer comes, it is common to hear, “I need to pause for the summer—I’m just too busy. I’ll restart in the fall.” While the allure of “pausing” taking care your main asset, yourself, is tempting during summer, it’s crucial not to let your fitness routine take a back seat during the warmer months. Sticking to your gym routine is the best decision you can make for your health, not feeling like you invested all the effort for nothing, and not feeling out of shape and not ready for September and the “normal life”.
- Schedule Consistency: Summer brings many activities and events that could take up a lot of free time. Prioritize your workouts by scheduling them on your calendar like any other appointment. Consistency and routine is key, so aim to stick to your usual gym routine as much as possible.
- Morning Workouts: Beat the heat and the busy schedule by opting for early morning workouts. Waking up 30 minutes earlier can provide ample time to squeeze in a quick gym session before the day kicks into high gear. Plus, starting your day with exercise sets a positive tone and boosts energy levels for the day ahead.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy the summer weather by incorporating outdoor activities into your fitness regimen. Whether hiking, swimming, or biking, use nature’s playground to keep your body moving and your workouts varied.
- Set Realistic Goals: Understandably, summer may not be the time to aim for major fitness milestones. Instead, set realistic goals that accommodate your busy schedule and fluctuating commitments. Focus on maintaining your current fitness level rather than making drastic progress.
- Gym Community Support: Don’t underestimate the power of your gym community in keeping you accountable and motivated. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who encourage you to stay on track, even when the temptation to slack off arises.
While it’s easy to fall down “the summer pause mentality”, staying active during the warmer months is crucial for maintaining your health and fitness. By implementing these five strategies and prioritizing your gym routine, you’ll not only avoid loose every progress you have made but also emerge stronger, fitter, and more energized than ever before when the crazy life in September starts again. So, this summer, instead of hitting pause, hit the gym and keep the momentum going towards your fitness goals.