7 Tips to Getting into “Olympic Shape”

Aug. 15, 2016

It’s that time of the year again when our RED, WHITE, and BLUE spirit comes to light in all our hearts. And our goals to become our better selves is now back on.

For me, watching the Olympics brings back not only nostalgic moments, but also feelings of getting myself back to “tip-top” shape.

Those 5 a.m. morning workouts and 3-hour afternoon workouts came to mind when I remember my swimming days. But truly it’s all worth it when you actually make the Olympic team and get to represent your country.

I remember watching my friends swim in Atlanta, Sydney, Athens, and London and thinking how amazing it is for them to experience these moments in the Games.

But in all honesty, now that the dream of becoming an Olympian has past, I still would like to continue to be the best part of myself. And for all of you, I hope for the same. But keep in mind that does not mean to go straight back into your past workout regimes, but to EASE BACK INTO IT.

Here are a few steps to consider when you are returning back into your workouts and to prevent any onset of injuries:

1.     Try to set up a workout plan that has a starting point and a good reachable goal. THIS PART IS IMPORTANT: The end goal is truly important to make sure it’s achievable because this will keep you motivated and on track. If not, then that will tend to cause many of you to fall short and discontinue your workouts.

2.     Discuss this goal with either your significant other or family member, and/or close friend. This way they can help cheer you on and make sure you stay on course.

3.     Set up a calendar with your workouts. These will also keep you on track with your end goal. (For me I use my calendar to cross off the days that I worked out and how much I ran for that day-since I’m currently training for my upcoming ½ marathon in Leavenworth).

4.     When starting your workouts, make sure to ease back into the workout regimes!! This is also very important because remember it only takes 7 days to lose what you have originally gained. For many of you, this may mean starting back at square 1, but that’s OK! Many of us tend to get off course and have to start back at the beginning. SO KEEP YOUR CHIN UP AND JUST KEEP MOVING FORWORD.

5.     Prior to your workouts, make sure to do some functional stretching to get your heart rate and blood flow moving. Here are some examples: lunges, jumping jacks, running in place.

6.     Make sure to STRETCH after your workouts!!! This will help reduce your onset of what we call DOMS: Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness.

7.     THIS ONE IS IMPORTANT: Make sure you find an activity that you will continue to have fun with!! Because after all, exercising will take some work, so why not have fun with it at the same time 🙂

If any of you would like some advice or input on how to go about your workout routines, please don’t hesitate to call and/or stop by the office and we’ll help get you started and cheer you on as well!

Best of luck to all of you, and in spirit of the Olympics, “Go Team USA!!”