Whether you’ve been injured, taken ill, had an operation or fell pregnant and were advised against heavy training, it doesn’t have to mean putting your feet up and forgetting your health and fitness goals. When training isn’t an option there are a few things that you can do to stay healthy and sane.
Get adventures in the kitchen
If your bookshelf is anything like mine you’ll have many cookbooks that haven’t been used in years. You might have some recipes earmarked that you wanted to try but forgot about long ago. Maybe there’s a health book you purchased with cool veggie rich recipes you’ve been wanting to play with.
Eighty percent of good health is due to nutrition so if you can’t focus on training, focus on what you’re putting into your body. Try adding a fresh veggie juice to your day by putting beets, carrot, apple and celery into a juicer and enjoying a refreshing drink. Why not try that dairy free cheesecake with a nutty base and filling?
Work your pelvic floor
When women fall pregnant they often get told to work their pelvic floor muscles. These muscles need to be taken care of as much as any other part of the body but often get neglected and forgotten about. If you want to avoid incontinence issues work that pelvic floor a few times a day. The great thing about working your pelvic floor is that you can do it while watching television, brushing your teeth, cooking, talking on the phone, standing at the supermarket checkout, or anywhere and anytime for that matter.
Dust off those magazines and running books
If you can’t train why not take the time to put your feet up and reread some of your favourite magazines and training books that you have stashed at the back of your wardrobe or in the garage. It might make you want to get back to training but focus on learning more about how you can tweak your routines when it’s time to get back. Take notes, make goals and think about what you want to achieve as well as what you want to avoid. When you get to return to running or racing you will do so with a fresh perspective.
Focus on your breathing
Society is so rushed that we forget to slow down and just be. Use the time you’re not training to work on your breathing techniques. Take deep slow breathes, count to three on each inhale and exhale. Picture the air going through your lungs and into your tummy. Sign up for a meditation class if you need extra motivation.
Stretch it out
Gentle stretching will improve your flexibility and improve your training once you’re back in the game. Take ten to fifteen minutes each day to stretch out your arms, legs and torso. Be gentle and hold each stretch for at least thirty seconds. You can even work on your breathing at the same time.
Go for a walk
Walking is beneficial for your heart, cholesterol and blood pressure. It’s also a great way to clear your mind, get some fresh air and stay active when training isn’t an option. Even a light twenty minute stroll in the park can lift your spirits and improve your day. If walking is an option make the effort to walk every day.
What do you do when training isn’t an option?
*Remember to always get approval from your doctor if you’re unwell before doing any physical activity.
