From busy schedules to our energy levels to taking vacations and so forth, we’ve all taken a break from working out.

And that’s okay!! (Yes, I’m screaming this from my imaginary rooftop!)

I’ll preface this by saying that I know it seems like I have my workout routine down, but it has taken me YEARS to make movement a non-negotiable for me. I’ve always been active since high school/college, and of course growing up in LA meant going on hikes and checking out workout classes with friends.

I also recognize my privilege in being able to do things according to my own schedule since I don’t have kids or other family responsibilities… for now.

With all that said, movement may be on my calendar at least 4-5x/week, but it doesn’t mean I’m actually sticking to that schedule. Just recently, I took a hiatus from my “official” workout schedule due to my time away.

Here’s how I got myself back into a routine after a lil’ hiatus:

Give yourself grace

Social media is a beautiful way to connect with others, but it can be TOO MUCH connection as well. I don’t honestly believe we’re meant to be THIS connected with folks beyond our usual circles 24/7, which is why it’s up to us to be more intentional with our scrolls.

We often see people posting their workouts (myself included!) and more often than that, this is for accountability purposes. If for any reason, seeing these posts (including mine) makes you feel a certain way about yourself, do what works for you!

Mute, unfollow, etc. Also, give yourself grace! We each have different bodies, lifestyles, schedules, etc. Being kind to how you speak to yourself as you get back into your workout routine is key to making this sustainable and enjoyable for you.

Choose a fun workout to ease into

Not everyone’s into pilates, barre, HIIT, running, crossfit, etc.

The beauty of the fitness world is that there is space for everyone to thrive and challenge themselves. Personally, my schedule looks like four days of strength training using the Peloton app followed by one day at a workout studio using ClassPass. The other days are dedicated to rest and active recovery!

In order to dip your toes in though, take it slow and choose something fun. When I first came back from my trip, I knew I did not want to start with Barry’s (lol), so I eased into it with strength training. For me, it helps to remind myself of my strength, so naturally, I needed a solo strength class to go at my own pace and to remind myself of my power.

Create a realistic schedule

We all have different schedules and needs, so be cognizant of the white space YOU have on your calendar.

Some are into AM workouts whereas others love PM workouts. Whatever your preference is, you don’t need to be working out hours a day 7 days a week.

I love using my Apple Watch to guide me towards my goal of 30 minutes movement goal (walking counts too!). While having a tracker like an Oura ring or Apple Watch can be helpful, you can also just choose baby increments of movement. I’m a big fan of 30 min workouts (besides workout classes, of course!) and that has made my transition to working out after a long break much more manageable and enjoyable for me.

Nutrition

Having some sort of pre-workout may be helpful. I personally haven’t found a pre-workout that I love, but I sometimes drink leftover black coffee from the morning as a lil’ refresher. However, because I am on a mission to not have caffeine after 2pm, I do this very sparingly (like once every few months!).

I also usually do my workouts in the afternoon. Feeling sluggish from my 9-5 desk job is honestly fuel enough to get me up and moving. However, what I’ve found is eating properly before and after is also key. Whether it’s snacking on a rice cake beforehand or eating a yummy meal after, the proper nutrition will encourage you to move and help you recover better.

Do it with friends

My social outings usually involve movement of some kind especially in nicer weather. Whether it’s going for a walk/hike or attending a workout class together, there is strength and inspiration from moving with friends. It was also where I met a ton of people when I first moved to Boston, so I use movement as a way to build connections. What better way to socialize and connect than to get yourself moving in a fun way?

Find a fun challenge

Sometimes, working out can be draining because we’d have to think, plan, etc and we’re all exhausted from decision fatigue! Try pulling up the Notes app on your phone, plan a cute schedule for the week with tons of emojis to spice things up, and plan your workouts. See mine below:

Another sustainable way to get back into working out is committing to a challenge.

If you’re using the Peloton app, they have pre-programmed collections for you to choose from based on your fav movement and instructor (yes – instructors matter!)

More into yoga? I love that Yoga With Adrienne has challenges for people to get into.

Feeling like a pilates girly? My dear friend Movement with Jill has a ton of videos on demand for you to try out at home if in-person classes seem a bit intimidating.

However you decide to ease back into it, make it fun for yourself! Working out doesn’t have to be intense or tough. Again, it’s all about reframing how you view movement.

I GET to work out.

I GET to move my body.

I GET to honor my body for everything it is capable of.

I GET to pick up these groceries without joint pain.

And don’t forget — frolicking around the city, carrying your babies around the house, and doing household chores all count as activity! Don’t discredit all the various ways you move on a daily basis 🙂