Looking for an excuse to skip the gym today? You’re too busy, have Netflix to catch up on, it’s your cat’s birthday, you’re feeling lazy, etc. Unfortunately, those excuses shouldn’t keep you from a great workout. But I have good news! There are some reasons why you should take a breather from the gym in addition to your normally scheduled rest days.
1. When You’re Only Working Out to Burn Off Food You Ate
Imagine the following scenario: you go out to lunch with your coworkers and order a slice of cheesecake for dessert. A few hours later, you think to yourself, “Man – I should really go to the gym to burn off all that cheesecake I ate”. Next thing you know, you’re pounding away on the treadmill. As tempting as this mindset may be, it sets up an unhealthy relationship with food and exercise. Food is a source of energy! Exercise is something that’s supposed to make you feel empowered and energized. Instead of viewing exercise as a means of burning calories, view it as a way of making your body strong. And if you want a slice of cheesecake, eat it and enjoy it! Treating yourself once in a while isn’t going to halt your progress.
2. When You’ve Injured Yourself
The “no pain no gain” mentality doesn’t apply here! Never push through pain. If something is legitimately injured, don’t workout and make it worse! Your body will thank you for it!
3. When You Have a Fever
Fevers indicate that your body is fighting an infection. So it’s best not to stress it out even more by exercising. Besides, fevers boost your resting heart rate, which leads your workouts to be less effective. Instead, stay home and rest up! PS – the same rules apply if you have the flu!
4. If Going to the Gym will Lead You To Miss Something You Want to Do
I have two things to say about this subject. 80% of the time, it’s okay to prioritize your workouts. That’s the only way you’ll reach your goals! However, it’s OKAY to skip the gym once in a while in order to have fun with family or friends! Health is more than just diet and exercise. It’s about your personal relationships, your mental health, and your social life too! Exercise should be a part of your life, not your whole life.
5. You’re Absolutely Exhausted
There’s a difference between tired and being exhausted. If you’re just a little sleepy, exercising can serve as a pick-me-up. However, if you’re fatigued and can barely keep your eyes open, skipping the gym might be the best road to take. When you’re overly tired, you’re more likely to compromise good form. Consequently, you’re more likely to get injured.
If none of the above criteria apply to you, then by all means…
Get Up and Do Something!
Written by GUADS staff member Angelina with contributions from rd.org and webmd.com
Episode 5: Breastfeeding Basics