As much as you want to avoid them, bad workouts are going to happen. One day you’re cruising along toward your fitness goals. And then the next day, it feels like all that progress has come to a grinding halt.
Although it may feel like it at the time, one bad workout isn’t a sign that you’ve lost all the fitness gains you’ve made over the past several weeks. With the right mindset, you can keep a bad workout from becoming a bad day. Or week.
When you have a bad workout, it doesn’t have to set the tone for the rest of your day. Here are a few suggestions on how you can turn things back around.
1. Add some light movement to your day.
Movement is a great way to clear your mind. If you keep replaying your workout over and over in your mind, take a break with some movement. Go for a walk or a few walks throughout the day.
2. Stay hydrated.
Now is a great time to make sure that you’re drinking plenty of water. Keep sipping on a water bottle, and you’ll ensure that you’re well-hydrated going into your next workout.
3. Eat healthy, nutritious foods.
As much as the voice in your head is trying to convince you that now is the time for potato chips, cookies, cakes, brownies, and every other treat you can get your hands on, try to stick with healthy, nutritious foods. Your body and your brain need quality fuel.
4. Breathe + meditate for five to ten minutes.
Taking a few minutes to breathe and just let your thoughts come and go might be the mental reset that you need. Even five minutes of focused breathing can make a huge difference.
5. Take some time to stretch and foam roll.
If you’re feeling a little rundown, spend some time doing some gentle stretching and foam rolling.
6. Spend some time outside.
Take a few minutes to sit and relax outside. Take your dog for a walk or go for a bike ride or hike.
7. Get some sleep.
The best time to recover from a bad workout is while you’re asleep. Try to go bed at a decent hour and get a quality night of sleep.
8. Go easy on yourself.
Remind yourself that one bad workout is simply that—one workout. Go easy on yourself and focus on doing things within your control to shift your mindset in a positive direction.
Are you interested in making classes at Rhapsody Fitness part of your workout routine? To learn more about Rhapsody Fitness in Charleston and our range of programs, get in touch with Team Rhapsody today.
