3 Times It's OK to Skip the Gym
By Genevieve Cunningham
We live in a gym-centered world. If you're into the idea of getting fit or losing weight, there's no doubt that you've been directed toward the gym. And truly, joining a gym can be a good idea. But there's a fine line between using the gym for general health building and becoming obsessed with it. A lot of people start with the first concept and evolve into the second. Pretty soon, they won't miss their gym time for anything. But is that always a good idea? If you worry about missing out on gym time, take a look at these three times when it's perfectly OK to cut yourself some slack.
When You're Sick
If you're sick, your body needs rest. It needs good food and plenty of fluids and sleep. You don't have to stick to your normal workout routine. You don't have to head to the gym. In fact, it's probably best to stay away instead of exhausting yourself and infecting other people. If you're sick, stay home. It's best for you, best for others, and you can get back to the grind as soon as you begin to feel better.
When You Haven't Slept
Sleep is important every day. Even a little lack of sleep can throw you into a health decline. Not to mention, it causes exhaustion, moodiness, poor productivity, and other side effects that are unwanted. If you've been having trouble getting good sleep, and you're exceptionally tired, cut yourself some slack and get some sleep. Sometimes exercise actually helps us sleep. It tires the body and improves your chance of falling asleep. But other times, our body would rather just have the rest. Honor your body, and the results will come whether you hit the gym today or not.
When You're on Vacation
If you're on vacation, relax. You can hit the gym if you want, but if you're not feeling it, don't. That's the entire point of a vacation -- to relax and rest and do whatever you please. You don't have to force yourself in a way that makes you stressed or exhausted when you're supposed to be taking it easy. It's a great time to be gentle on yourself and forgive yourself for taking a break. Enjoy the vacay and work out when you get back.
Going to the gym and staying fit is certainly important. It helps you maintain good health as you age and improves the overall appearance and feel of your body. But it's OK to miss sometimes. It's OK to skip a workout or sleep instead. The gym is great! But take time off when you need it, and you'll still be honoring your body and moving toward better health in your life.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fort Collins, Colo.