There are a multitude of excuses and reasons why we skip workouts, and some of the excuses may not be valid when we really take a step back to look at them from afar. There are circumstances that really call for a pause in your fitness regime however; otherwise your workout could do you more harm than good in the long run. Everyone’s body will react to a diet, and fitness program differently so keep in mind these are general reasons why you may want to re-think your workout. If you are really experiencing a problem with your health in general, always consult a doctor.
Reason #1
You Are Downright Exhausted
A terrible night sleep of tossing and turning, and before you know it your alarm is letting you know it is time to get up and go to the gym. Your body is completely exhausted, and you are contemplating staying in bed, and getting more sleep instead of more reps. The right thing to do in this situation is to get a few more Z’s. Stumbling through a workout on negative energy levels will only make you more tired and set you back in the long haul. This also can happen when you over exercise, so be mindful of how your body is feeling during your day to day before you thoughtlessly go to the gym. If you go to the gym early in the morning, try your best to get to bed early so that you have enough energy to get a productive workout in, without completely exhausting your body.
Reason #2
You Are Injured
We have all been there at some point. Injuries are a complete bummer, and leave many very frustrated. Powering through an injury is one of the worst things you can do for your body, and the future of your fitness routine. By pushing through an injury, you will not only make it worse but you could permanently hurt yourself long term. Healing should always take priority over getting another workout in. Rest is always a safe diagnosis when you are dealing with trying to heal from an injury. If you are dying to get into the gym, do exercises that will not aggravate or go near the injured area.
Reason #3
You Are Sick
Working out when you are feeling under the weather is probably one of the most uncomfortable feelings in the world, as your body is easily fatigued. Working out when you are sick does nothing but put you a few steps backward. You will most likely become more ill, which will prolong your recovery time and keep you away from a good workout longer. While it’s hard to get thrown out of your routine, you must listen to your body when it is broken down and sick. Not only is it terrible for your body to become broken down even more when working out sick, but you are also infecting the entire gym (if you are at a gym), which puts others at risk for catching your sickness. No bueno.
Reason #4
You Are Extremely Sore
There is a fine line here. Being sore, and pushing through a workout is perfectly fine. What’s not okay is when your body is aching and sore from head to toe. You will feel your body fatigue extremely fast and you will just hurt all over. If this is the case, you may want to take a recovery day and not think twice about it. Always listen to your body, as failure to do so may result in burn out and injury. Check out a few ways to alleviate your soreness more quickly here.