Every year I get to a point where I take two to three weeks off of all workouts.  Sometimes it just needs to be done to allow my body and my mind to reset.  When I resume my workouts I always feel like a beginner again.  My muscular endurance sucks, I’m sore as hell, and I just feel like a big wuss.

For most people these fitness layoffs last for months and sometimes years, and it usually happens after graduating from college, start working, get married, and finally, have kids.  The last two are the biggest reasons for most men and women to stop their fitness lifestyle altogether.  Why though?  Maybe it doesn’t make sense to me, because I grew up in a very active household.  My dad was a martial artist and was active in three sports.  He got me involved in almost every sport, and I competed in three in high school.

But I digress.

What I mean to say is that our fitness doesn’t have to be put on hold for anything.  In fact, it should be at the top of our list regardless of our circumstances because it’s the the one thing that CAN be controlled.  No one can make you eat crappy food, it was your choice.  No one can not make you exercise, that was your choice too.

So how do you make a successful fitness comeback?

It’s starts with getting your mindset right, because getting back in to great shape is mostly psychological versus physical.

First, Stop Talking Yourself Out Of It

There are two main excuses I hear, “I’m too old”, and “I don’t have time.”

At least once a week I meet a very active older adult who is in their 70’s, but looks like they just turned 50.  Observing their workouts completely squashes any excuse or justification you can come up with.  It’s never too late for anyone.  I mean there are 60-70 year olds competing in Ironman Triathlon’s for Pete’s sake so what’s really your excuse?

“But you don’t understand, I don’t have the time.” Really?  We all have the same 24 hours in a day, so please explain to me how you’re spending your time wisely.  I’ve trained hundreds of men and women who have 2-4 kids, have busy jobs, and busy lifestyles, but always, always find the time to get a workout in.  Even if it’s only 15 minutes.  The key is to find an activity you absolutely love, which will easily get rid of the “no time” excuse and keep you in great shape to hang with your kids.

Second, Train With A Purpose

Set a goal that you can visualize, but more importantly get it down on paper.  Once it is written down it makes it more real and will more than likely create an intrinsic spark.  If it’s a physique that you know you can attain, cut out a picture from a magazine that resembles that and start setting your groundwork to achieve that body.  Or maybe it’s running a 5-K so get the gear you need, register for an event, but provide yourself enough time to train for it as well.

Get involved in an activity that really moves you, and when you hit a road bump, it’s always a good idea to read over your goals to help you regroup.  If anything, seek out a qualified fitness professional to get you started on the right track.

Lastly, Maintain Focus & Momentum

Your busy lifestyle will bring up a bunch of other reasons to skip a workout, but be strong and don’t give in to your own mindgames.  Get your spouse, a good friend, or co-worker to workout with you.  Explain to them how important this is for you so that you have a partner to hold you accountable.  If that situation doesn’t work, then seek out a group fitness program like local fitness boot camps.  Nowadays, social support is playing a huge role in not only getting more people active, but to stick with the program as well.

Like I said earlier, get your mindset right and the physical part will fall into place.

Stay tuned tomorrow for Part 2: the Comeback Workout and for “Friday’s ABSolution”.

- Rommel Acda, MATS, CSCS