Despite your best intentions to get to the gym and work out, some days life seems to have other plans. You might get pulled into a meeting, get stuck in traffic, forget your gym bag, etc. Stuff happens, and when it does, it doesn’t have to ruin your day. Or your workout.
Here are a few ways that you can still win the day, even if you can’t get to the gym:
1. Work out at home.
If you can’t make it to the gym, one option is to bring the gym to you. Working out at home is an effective and convenient option. Will it be the same as the WOD you’d planned to do at your gym? Maybe not. But it’s still a great alternative!
2. Move more throughout your day.
If you’re pressed for time and unable to do a stand-alone workout, try to move more throughout your day. Take short breaks to do short sets of squats, pushups, situps, etc. Avoid the elevator and take the stairs. Extend your walk with your dog by a few minutes, or go for a walk during your lunch break.
3. Drink plenty of water.
Do your best to keep up with the healthy habits you can control, like drinking plenty of water. Just because you won’t be going to the gym doesn’t mean you should be less concerned with your hydration. Drinking throughout the day will keep your body functioning so that you’re recovered and ready for your next workout.
4. Eat healthy, nutritious foods all day.
Another healthy habit to stay on top of is your nutrition. Eating healthy, nutritious foods is an excellent idea on any day. Including the days you can’t make it to the gym. Even though you can’t get to the gym, it doesn’t mean the entire day is ruined. Stick to your other healthy habits and make good choices about how you decide to fuel your body.
5. Meditate for ten to fifteen minutes.
Perhaps you can’t make it to the gym due to a crazy, hectic schedule. Taking even five minutes to sit and breathe may seem like a bad idea if you’ve got a lot going on. You’ve got too much to do! Even more of a reason to take just ten minutes to sit, breathe, and meditate. Give your mind a brief break from what you have going on, and your body will benefit.
6. Spend some time foam rolling and/or stretching.
Another great alternative is to spend some time doing some mobility work, like foam rolling. Loosening up tight joints and getting your blood circulating is a great active recovery technique.
7. Go for a run, hike, or bike ride.
Even if you can’t get to the gym, you might be able to switch out your workout for a run, hike, or bike ride. And running or going for a walk or hike are both convenient options that you can do from just about anywhere.
8. Get a good night’s sleep.
If you get to the end of the day and find that you just don’t have time for any of these ideas, no sweat. If it’s time for bed, now is not the time to cram one more thing into your day. Instead, try to get a good night’s sleep, so you’re ready for tomorrow.
Bonus Tip: Cut yourself some slack.
When you end up skipping out on a workout because you’re not able to make it to the gym, cut yourself some slack. Don’t feel guilty over things that are beyond your control. Do what you can to still win the day, and make a plan for how you can get back on track the next day.
To learn more about the programs and classes we’re currently offering at Cannon Fitness and Performance in Houston, contact us today.