Along with cool, crisp air, autumn often brings with it a desire to get (back) into sport! We've got some tips to help you overcome those things that can sometimes get in your way so you can stick with a new routine and see results!
Everyone looks forward to summer—it's the season of relaxation, hours spent basking in the sun and a much-needed respite from the daily grind! However, it's also a time when we give in to too many treats and let sport fall by the wayside.
"That's it, I'm going to do sport again! But where do I even start? I don't have time! I never see any difference! Go to a gym? No thanks!"
From a busy schedule to a lack of motivation or poor body image, the list of things that may be keeping you from getting back to doing sport is long.
But if you follow our tips, you can get fit again once and for all with Pilates, having fun while you do so and feeling great in your body. Let's go!
Pilates is THE gentle gym activity par excellence... It is gentle but extremely effective! It's the perfect option for easing back into sport at your own rhythm and without pressure. Pilates has a number of benefits that will win you over:
- A stronger core: you'll strengthen your entire abdominal wall
- Stronger muscles for better posture: you'll get stronger, have a greater range of motion and be more flexible, which will make everyday life easier
- Harmonious muscle development: sculpt and tone your body
- Better breathing and concentration: refresh your mind for total well-being
There are a lot of different exercises of all levels, from beginner to advanced. This means you can start off and progress at your own pace to achieve visible results without getting injured or losing your motivation!
If you think you don't have the time to get to the gym or money for a membership, work out at home! How? By downloading our free Decathlon Coach app, where you can try out Pilates and do our training programmes created by our certified trainers.
You can go at your own pace in your own home at whatever time fits your schedule. Create a gentle routine and set some realistic goals for yourself, and remember to get enough sleep to feel your best!
Just 15 minutes of Pilates every day is enough to see results!
Make it easy to squeeze in a workout every day: you could set your alarm clock 15 minutes early, for example! You'll be sure to start your day off right. More night owl than lark? No worries—carve out some time when you get home from work to clear your mind!
Don't forget that stress is a contributing factor to weight gain. It makes the body hold on to fat, especially around the abdomen! Take care of both body and mind with Pilates.
Respect your body! It is essential to listen to your internal clock. It is not recommended to work out right after a meal or just before bed.
As far as equipment goes, you just need comfy clothing and a few accessories: leggings or shorts, a T-shirt, a Pilates mat, a towel and some water to stay hydrated.
You may also want a few other inexpensive Pilates accessories to sculpt your body. Try hand weights for your arms, a Swiss ball for your abs or resistance bands for your entire body.
To support your back-to-sport plan, get your fridge in order and stock up on healthy food.
- High-quality protein: beef, fish, eggs and chicken.
- Non-starchy vegetables: all veggies except potatoes, peas and maize.
- Natural fats: avocados, nuts and seeds, olive oil and rapeseed oil.
Avoid simple carbs and sugar-laden foods as much as possible: doughnuts, sweet and savoury biscuits, candy, crisps, ice cream, fruit juice (processed), white bread, white rice and pasta, soft drinks etc.
Be patient and don't give up—you'll soon see a difference and will be rewarded for your efforts!
Be sure to change up your routine to keep boredom at bay. You can do Pilates along with other sports such as walking, swimming and cycling.
A few final tips: remember to stay hydrated before, during and after your workout, be sure to warm up before your workout and stretch afterwards, and if you have any doubts about your ability to do sport, consult a doctor.
Communication Leader – Pilates
You now know everything you need to get back into sport and stick with it!
Have a sport-filled autumn.