by Gemma Delaney

With millions of fitness enthusiasts saying goodbye to home workouts and ready to unearth that dusty gym membership card, the question stands: what’s the best way to resume gym sessions post lockdown? Consider this your comprehensive guide to negotiating that transition safely.

Some certainly can’t wait to get their hands on that gym equipment, while others might find comfort in keeping up with home workouts. Whatever your preference, fear not, says Lisa Marshall, the mastermind behind Thunderbolt Fitness. She recommends that if you’re not sure where to start, opt for a structured online programme like Thunderbolt Fitness. That way, you can bring the plan with you to the gym and ensure an effective and safe workout masterpiece.

Here are some crucial tips and tricks to help you make the most out of your workout while minimizing the risks of injury:

Stepping into Action

“While home workouts have found a special place in the hearts of many, returning to the gym should be approached cautiously since the equipment and intensity might be different,” warns fitness expert Shelby Morgan of FlexOnFitness. Shelby suggests adopting a gradual approach, making use of the tactics learned during home sessions.

If you’ve become fond of online barre classes during lockdown, why not fuse those exercises with weights? Or perhaps bring a 60-second cycling sprint into your weights circuit? The options are infinite and exciting.

A Treasure Trove of Advice

1. Reacquaint Yourself: Shelby emphasizes the importance of not being embarrassed to ask for a quick refresher when it comes to gym equipment. Booking a PT session can immensely boost your gym confidence.
2. Chart the Course: “Start your routine gently, rebuild your stamina, and then gradually advance your workout intensity” advises Nicola Grey of Power Collective. She underscores the necessity of having each workout planned ahead.
3. Don’t Obsess: The pandemic has disrupted everyone’s fitness regimen, which is why Shelby advises against focusing too much on comparing your workouts to those from a year ago. “You will bounce back in no time if you take it slow,” she explains.
4. Quality is King: According to Shelby, the focus should primarily be on quality and technique and not on the time spent or distance covered.
   Nicola agrees, saying, “Don’t hesitate, step up, grab those weights!”
5. Keep it Real: Nicola calls for setting an honest standard and being accountable to reach your workout goals. She suggests maintaining a keen focus on your gym session without the distraction of your phone.
6. Set Aside the Ego: Don’t worry about the progress that was lost during the lockdown. Aim to enjoy the journey rather than focusing solely on the end goal.
7. Honor the Stretch: Don’t overload your body by doing too many intensive sessions. “Embrace rest days, add lighter sessions such as yoga, and never underestimate the power of a good stretch,” advises Nicola.

COVID-conscious: Understanding the New Gym Etiquettes

Social distancing guidelines require gym equipment to be spaced 2m apart, with visible floor markings. Upon entry, most gyms conduct temperature checks and provide hand sanitizer. While face masks won’t be mandatory for gym-goers, the staff might be seen wearing them. It is now more crucial than ever to clean gym equipment before and after use.

However, if you’re still working out at home partly or entirely, remember safety should still be the priority. Use correct equipment and follow a proper routine for optimum results. With a well-thought and informed approach, both home and gym workouts can deliver effective results, keeping us fit and healthy in these unpredictable times.

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