It’s a new year and with that comes promises of eating healthier and exercising more. In fact, research has shown that gym memberships tend to skyrocket during the month of January, with many people looking to either shed the holiday weight, or get into a new, more active routine that consists of regular exercise.
However, while we do encourage incorporating exercise into your life, some of us are guilty of doing too much too soon and putting ourselves at risk for injury.
So, how do you know when you’re doing too much and how can you keep an active lifestyle in 2022 without punishing your body?
Don’t Over-Exercise in 2022
Am I doing too much?
Photo by Alora Griffiths on Unsplash
For some people, it can be hard to pick up on when their fitness routine is hurting, rather than helping them. This is especially because a lot of us are guilty of associating pain with “gain.” However, all those aches you’re feeling could be signs of overtraining and other signs can include:
- Insomnia
- Muscle or joint pain
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Feeling unmotivated
- Lack of energy
- Weakened immune system
- Loss of appetite
Safely exercising in 2022
While each of our bodies reacts differently to exercising, there are a few tips that you can keep in mind if you want to avoid harming your body and keep it as healthy and fit as you can:
Ease into it
If you took a break from exercising during the festive season, or during the entirety of 2021, then it’s important to ease back into the habit of exercising. As great as HIIT can be for you, we advise against you signing up for a class anytime soon.
Rather, start with something light and simple, like walking or yoga, 3 times a week and then slowly increase the intensity.
Take rest days
Starting anything new can get some getting used to, especially for your body and muscles, and this is why it’s important to take regular rest days.
Recovery is an essential part of your fitness routine, and it’s essential not to neglect it. Rest days give your body the chance to repair and replenish itself, and it’s key to your long-term health.
Takeaway
As great as exercise is for the body, your body is going to let you know when it’s unhappy, so it’s important to listen to and learn the difference between ‘adjustment pain’ and real pain. Additionally, an exercise routine isn’t the only way for you to get healthier in 2022, as you should also re-evaluate your dietary habits and prioritize your mental health.
Photo by madison lavern on Unsplash
Want to know more?
If you really want to lead a more active lifestyle in 2022, have you ever considered yoga? It’s only great for your mental and physical health, but yoga can help provide you with the energy you need for 2022.
