The autumn equinox is at our doorstep, the temperature is dropping, and the temptation to embrace cosy season and drop your workout routine and healthy habits is strong.
However, according to Martyn Oakey, head of fitness at Everlast Gyms, part of Sports Direct, this time of year is great for setting a new routine and getting back on track with your fitness goals.
Martyn explains: “Autumn is the perfect time to refresh and reevaluate your fitness goals for many reasons. As we leave Summer behind, life often slows down a little. Whilst the cooler weather means less spontaneous plans, such as barbeques and trips to the pub garden, the hidden benefit is that you can create a more rigid routine again without worrying about trying to make the most of summer.
“This means scheduling weekly gym sessions or classes into your calendar, increasing the number of runs you do a week or just making more of an effort to move in whatever form your body calls for should be a lot easier.
He continues: “September is also a good time to check in with your goals and progression. Many people set health and fitness resolutions at the beginning of the year and either forget to check in or completely throw them to the side because they haven’t been able to stick to them. Instead use the changing of seasons to look back and see how far, or not far, you’ve come and use this as motivation to push through. You can always pick up an old resolution later in the year, you still have over 3 months to make some headway – don’t wait until January!
“See this time of year as a fresh start, taking advantage of the back-to-school energy and setting some updated goals to see you through the end of the year. If you need to add a little pep to your step to get you going, consider opting for a team sport like football so you can hold each other accountable.”
Feeling inspired but still need that extra help to keep you on track? Martyn shares 4 tips to keep you motivated this time of year:
- Add it to your calender
Martyn states: “Doing exercise as and when you feel like it is an easy way to fall into the habit of skipping your training sessions when the weather is bad or you’re not feeling motivated. Instead, planning a schedule can help you to stick to your regime.”
- Buddy up
Martyn shares: “Once you’ve set yourself up to work towards a refreshed set of goals, partnering up with a friend or family member can help make sticking with your routine a little easier.
“If your friends or family aren’t up for it, try booking on to a regular gym class or running club, working out as a part of a group who are there with similar aims to you can create a sense of community that will only drive your motivation.”
- Mix it up with a fitness trend
Martyn comments: “Whether you’re looking to diversify your workout routine and target new muscle groups and hone new skills, rotating new activities into your current workout routine can be really beneficial, as it creates variety and keeps things from feeling like a chore.
“There are hundreds of workout trends online that can transform your current workouts into something fresh and exciting. It is however important that if you’re not entirely sure, you consult with a personal trainer for advice on whether the trend will truly be beneficial as well as tips on technique and incorporating this into your current workout routine in a way that avoids injury.”
- Reward yourself for your hard work
Whilst goals and a schedule are great long-term strategies, taking time to acknowledge the little wins on the way can greatly improve your sense of motivation to keep going.
Martyn adds “Whilst it’s not the solution for every workout-motivation-slump, it’s no secret that buying new sports gear can add a new layer of excitement for working out. So why not set a goal, and once completed, treat yourself to a new pair of running trainers or workout gear?”
