Avoiding injury when returning to the gym

With restrictions easing and people returning to the gym it's important to stay safe. One of the biggest risks as you return to activity is injury.

Whether you stayed active during lock-down, exercised outdoors, or dropped your activity levels, here are some things to consider as you return to exercise:

• Your body tissues might have changed as well as their tolerance to exercise levels and you may not be able to perform exercises as easy as you did prior to lock-down.
• You may not be able to perform some activities such as jumping or landing as efficiently as you could before. This can make you more prone to injury.
• Your cardiovascular capacity may have changed, meaning your heart and lungs may not be as efficient at delivering oxygen to your muscles or removing by-products.

Here are some tips on how to ease back into your gym routine:

• Gradually build your tolerance, It may take some time to reach pre lock-down levels.
• Introduce variety into your routine. Alternate between resistance and cardio based activities, go for a swim or do a balance class. Check out our great range of group classes!
• Listen to your body! If you feel fatigued take a rest day, reduce your exercise intensity, perform some stretches and foam rolling, or have a massage.

General questions for consideration:

• Have you had a check-up with your GP recently?
• Are you on new medication or have your medication levels changed?
• During lock-down have you undergone any medical procedures?

If you have any concerns fill out a pre-exercise questionnaire upon your return and talk to our friendly staff for more information.