Spring Fitspiration: How to Get Back on Your Workout Grind

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What would it be like to be back at your peak physique before the summer season rolls around? If you chuckled just thinking about it, you’re not alone. It seems like nothing short of an anomaly to be ready for swimsuit season before it starts. For some of us, getting our bodies back into shape seems like a far-off pipe dream that we could only hope to accomplish … someday.

With the arrival of spring marking the end of hibernation season, there’s a lot of pressure to get back out there and kickstart your workout regime. We also know that talking about it is one thing and executing it, well, that’s quite another.

This post will provide you with some foolproof tips on how not to give up on your fitness goals. So, go ahead, dust off your bike.

Done?

Great, let’s hit the road.

Getting Bike Into It

If you’re looking to get back into shape this season, chances are you fall into one of several categories. For starters, maybe you’ve followed an off-season plan and you’re ready to hop back onto a regular cycling routine like no time has elapsed. Maybe you rode around here and there during your downtime but never followed a formalized plan. Or maybe, your routine was completely and utterly nonexistent and you haven’t thought about a bike in months.

Wherever you lie on the cycling spectrum, these tips will help you get back into a routine that you can commit to day in and day out.

Start Somewhere

Ever heard the saying “every journey begins with a single step”? Well, in our case, the cycling fitness journey starts with a single pedal. And all of us need to start there. It could be as simple as carving a 30-minute period in your day, before or after work, to hop on your bike and just ride. With the wind at your back and the sun on your face, you’ll be reminded what it feels like to simply destress and let go.

Set Realistic Goals

Once you’ve got a couple rides under your belt, you’re one pedal closer to locking in a regular routine.

But be careful of jumping the gun – you don’t want to set too high of a goal that you’re unlikely to stick to over the long run. Make sure you start small and work your way to a specific goal in the future. In order not to lose sight of where you’re headed, it’s a good idea to track your progress with a GPS watch or fitness app.

Your goal could be in terms of minutes, miles, calories burned, elevation climbed, etc. The sky is the limit. And don’t forget, it’s all about the journey, not the destination.

Pro Tip: Develop killer fitness goals by following the SMARTER acronym.

Don’t Be Afraid to Switch It Up

While getting back into shape isn’t always fun, that doesn’t mean your workouts have to be mundane also. The worst thing you can do for yourself is to repeat the same daily routine and get yourself stuck in a rut. Can you say, “boring?!” Not to mention, you won’t get better. Period.

Without a varied routine of speed, intensity, and workout type, you will be at higher risk of overuse injuries. You’re also less likely to build muscle mass and won’t burn as many calories.

Pro Tip: Switching up your workout routine might include occasionally hopping off the bike and going for a long run or intense hike instead. Unless you’re training for a specific race or event that requires cycling every day, it’s a good idea to make sure there’s as much variation in the type of workout you are doing as it is to switch up intensity, time, speed, etc.

Eat, Drink, & Be Merry

Eat healthy, stay hydrated, and say hello to an elevated mood. Getting back into shape is as much a mental process as it is a physical one. Hitting the brakes to make time to relax and recharge is just as important as consistent training. Drinking more water will also improve brain function and increase your overall energy level. Win-win!

Pro Tip: Your body is composed of roughly 60% water… its crucial to replenish that. Experts say that the 8×8 rule, or eight 8 oz. glasses per day, is a good goal to aim for.

 Riding Off Into the Sunset

With more hours of sun, the luxury of warmer days, and the promise of spring, the thought of getting outdoors is much more appealing. Commit to a longer workout several days of the week and take advantage of the opportunity to reconnect with your surroundings after being cooped up in an office building.

Whether you’re just starting out or have been committed to an active lifestyle for a while, you’ll feel fully prepared to tackle a successful workout plan after setting goals, making small lifestyle changes, and getting the first leg of your journey under your belt. Face the new season with an open mind (and an open road) and don’t give up!

The Cycle SuperStore has everything you need to accomplish your exercise goals this spring! Check out our extensive line of road or e-bikes, GPS trackers, and fitness accessories at our online store.

 

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Roadie, Family man and Dubliner

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