Summer is a wonderful time to relax and go-with-the-flow, but all good things must come to an end. The pools will begin close and the school bells ring once again. The transition to the structured days of school can be a challenge for all, but there’s a silver lining: this is the perfect time to jumpstart your fitness routine.
Back-to-school can also mean back-to-fitness, so here is how you can jump-start your fall fitness routine:
- Set a Schedule That Works
Just like you have set times for school drop-offs, pick-ups, and homework, carve out specific times for exercise. Whether it’s a morning workout before the kids wake up, a lunchtime yoga session, or an evening walk, putting fitness on your calendar makes it a priority.
Tip: Start small, since even 15-20 minutes a day can make a difference. As you get into the groove, you can gradually increase your workout time
- Get the Family Involved
Fitness is always better with others, so why not make it a family affair! Organize weekend hikes, bike rides, or even a game of soccer in the backyard. Not only will this help you stay active, but it also sets a great example for your kids about the importance of staying fit.
- Take advantage of School-Time Hours
The hours between drop-off and pick-up can be your time. Use this period to hit the gym, go for a run, or take a fitness class. With fewer distractions, you can focus entirely on your workout.
Tip: If you’re working from home, use your lunch break for a quick workout. It can boost your productivity and energy levels for the rest of the day.
- Prepare for Success
Back-to-school season is busy, so plan ahead. Pack your gym bag the night before, set out your workout clothes, and prepare healthy snacks and meals in advance. The easier it is to grab what you need, the less likely you are to skip your workout.
- Stay Flexible and Forgiving
Life can get in the way, especially when juggling school schedules, extracurricular activities, and work. On some days, your workout might not happen as planned, and that’s okay. The key is to stay flexible and not get discouraged. A missed workout doesn’t mean failure; it just means you need to adapt and keep going.
- Enroll in Crunch+
Crunch+ is our virtual platform where you can find many of your favorite Group Fitness Classes on demand. Choose from Yoga, Cardio, Strength, Cycle & more, with some workouts as quick as 15 minutes. Technology can be a great tool to help you stay on course and work out on your schedule. Crunch + is only $1.99/month for members, so enroll today.
- Celebrate Your Wins
Don’t forget to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Whether it’s completing your first full week of workouts or noticing an improvement in your stamina, take time to acknowledge your hard work. These little victories will keep you motivated and moving forward.
Back-to-school season is an opportunity to not only establish a new routine for your family but also to recommit to your fitness goals. With a little planning, flexibility, and a positive mindset, you can successfully navigate this busy time and come out stronger—both physically and mentally. So, as you’re sharpening pencils and packing lunches, don’t forget to lace up those sneakers and get back to fitness!