How To Ease Back Into Working Out

So, I know I'm not the only one who took time off during this holiday season and completely abandoned their workout plan (kudos to those who kept it up). I don't really remember the last time I've really strength trained. But I am looking forward to getting back to it. There are a few things I would suggest doing before you pull a muscle!

1. Ease Into It - Take your time and start slow with an easy routine. I want to hit the squat rack and see if I can bust out 100kgs again but I know that's not going to be possible after my little break. So I've decided to do start my year off with a hike and then I'll work my gym routine in after getting some physical activity into my system. I want to avoid as much injury as possible, so my advice to you is to try some low intensity workouts at least for the first two weeks before getting back to your regular routines. And make sure you focus on your form. 
2. Stick to what's comfortable for you - I miss the days when I was able to workout 4 times a week. I don't even remember that life. But my goal is to get back there. I won't be able to achieve my 4 times a week fitness lifestyle by day dreaming about it so even if I make it to the gym once a week, that's enough for me. Results will come much faster with a regular pattern and frequency, daily reminder!  If you can only dedicate 1 day a week to  your fitness regime, good for you! 
3. Make sure you warm up - This tip is a no brainer. You all know the importance of a good warm up but what's also important is stretching. Muscles that have not been accustomed to strenuous activity for sometime will experience some form of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), which basically means you are going to be tight and achy for 24-72 hours after your workout. To avoid the pain or at least decrease it, please do yourself a favor and stretch. 
4. Find a gym partner or a friend who is also trying to get back into a fitness routine. Together you can keep each other motivated. Set goals and create a workout plan that is best for you! 

Good luck and Happy New Year!