

HOW DO I START WORKING OUT AGAIN?
Life happens and we want to ease back into working out. Whether it's the joy of welcoming a new child, starting a demanding job, or overcoming an injury or illness, these life changes can easily sideline our fitness routines. If you're thinking about getting back into working out, the journey back can feel intimidating. However, starting small, building momentum, and finding a supportive community like CrossFit CTRL can make all the difference.
Here’s how to ease into a fitness routine that not only sticks but also enhances your quality of life.
1. Identify Your “Why” and Set Realistic Goals
If you’ve been away from fitness for a while, your "why" might have evolved. Maybe your new job has you sitting more than before, and you're noticing back pain or lack of energy. Or perhaps you want the energy to keep up with your kids and set a healthy example. Identifying why you want to return to fitness can help you establish realistic goals.
Start with small, achievable targets. If you’re recovering from an injury, your initial goal might be as simple as attending one class a week. On the other hand, if you’re a new parent, maybe your goal is to carve out 20 minutes each day for a quick workout. These bite-sized goals help build momentum and prevent overwhelm. Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight; it’s the small, consistent steps that matter.
2. Ease Back Into Working Out—Slow and Steady Wins the Race
After a break, it’s tempting to want to jump back in with full force, especially if you remember how strong or fit you used to be. But resist the urge to go from zero to a hundred. It’s crucial to start slow, especially if you've experienced an injury or illness.
Begin with low-intensity workouts to let your body adjust. At CrossFit CTRL, we focus on mechanics first. This approach ensures you’re moving properly and reduces the risk of injury, which is especially important when restarting after a break. Building a solid foundation can mean the difference between a sustainable fitness journey and one that leads to burnout or setbacks.
3. Find Accountability and Join a Supportive Community
Accountability is one of the most powerful tools for consistency. When starting out, there are bound to be days when motivation runs low, especially when you’re juggling responsibilities. That’s where having a coach or a community comes in.
A coach provides guidance tailored to your needs. At CrossFit CTRL, our certified trainers work with you to create a safe and effective workout plan. They understand the challenges of getting back into a routine and can help adjust your workouts to suit your current fitness level.
Joining a community can make all the difference, too. Whether you're starting over after an injury, dealing with post-illness fatigue, or adjusting to life as a new parent, knowing others are cheering for you is a powerful motivator. The camaraderie found in a supportive community like CrossFit CTRL means you’ll not only have a group to work out with but also people who genuinely care about your progress.
4. Embrace the Journey and Celebrate Small Wins
Every step you take is progress, even the small ones. The key to long-term success is patience and consistency. Instead of comparing yourself to your pre-injury or pre-parenthood self, focus on what you’re achieving today. Did you make it through the workout without pain? That’s a win. Did you squeeze in a workout despite a busy schedule? Celebrate that commitment.
Take pride in these small victories, and let them build your momentum. Over time, these wins accumulate and help you rediscover your fitness potential.
Ready to Make a Plan? Click Here to book a Free Intro
Getting back into working out is about more than just physical exercise. It’s about building habits that support your lifestyle, health, and goals. When you’re ready to take that step, we’re here to help.
Book a free intro session with one of our coaches at CrossFit CTRL to discuss your goals and create a plan tailored to your needs. Whether you’re new to this (read our Couch to CrossFit blog HERE), looking to regain strength after an injury, find balance with a new job, or build endurance to keep up with the kids, we’ve got your back.
Let’s get started on a journey toward a healthier, stronger you.