Going back to the gym during Covid

For many of us, the gym was our sanctuary. It was heartbreaking, confusing and we thought of nothing but getting back to the gym furloughed at home during covid-19 ‘shelter in place’ order.

It’s still not all over, and even though most gyms are open now, they no longer represent a sanctuary; with all the new rules and the threat of covid still looming, for many the prospect of going back to the gym has proven to be an anxious one. Ultimately, you must choose for yourself whether you feel safe enough to go back but wherever you’re at, it’s certainly true that getting back to the gym during covid-19 can be a bit of a mind f***k !
 
Here are a few simple tips to help it all run smoothly: 
 
• Check the new rules before you go.
 
• Go with a plan, and have exercise swaps if equipment is busy. 
 
• Give yourself extra time. All the sanitation makes everything take longer .
 
• Don’t go back trying to get your personal bests, take it easy, DOMS is a thing! Get yourself going on a couple compound movements then break in the machines.
 
• Give yourself extra time to recover.
 
• Be extra kind to yourself if you expanded over lockdown. Lots of mirrors in gyms!  
Give yourself lots of compassion and kind self talk.
 
• If there are people around you not respecting the rules don’t be afraid to set your (6ft) boundaries and tell them to back off .
 
• If you are anxious talk to the gym beforehand about their protocols and if you’re not happy find another gym.

Staying fit and healthy is so important for our mental health as well as physical. If you’re just too worried about going back to the gym, please feel free to contact me and please check out my online trainings.