Back to routine after the holidays? 7 ways to stay energised with fun workouts

Best exercises: Practice gentle stretches or yoga to relieve stress and improve flexibility. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help ease your mind and improve your overall well-being (Image: Canva)

Getting back into the groove after a series of festive celebrations can feel challenging. However, with determination and a few intentional workouts, along with simple habits, you can regain your energy, get your body moving again, and feel rejuvenated.

After the festive season’s non-stop celebrations, it’s common to feel drained and tired. But there is good news. “It’s possible to regain your energy and get back on track with just a little effort. Balancing relaxation with movement is key to feeling rejuvenated and relaxed,” Drishti Chhabria, Founder and Chief Experience Officer at Orangetheory Fitness.

Here are 7 workout tips, suggested by Chhabria, that will help you stay energised and motivated in the post-festive season:

• Move your body: Post celebrations you are probably recovering from a food coma or just trying to get back into your routine. Remember that movement is essential. Start by adding simple activities like walking, light stretching, or doing household chores. If you’re feeling up to it, consider adding cardio or strength exercises to your day, and aim for at least 20-30 minutes of physical activity.

• Watch and build your intensity: The festive season may have thrown off your regular workout routine, so start slow and build back your intensity. Focus on time-efficient workouts like HIIT or circuit training that won’t take up too much of your time but will help you stay energised. Track your intensity levels using a fitness tracker to monitor how your body is responding, adjusting your workout intensity based on how you feel.

• Schedule workouts: One of the easiest ways to stay on track is to plan your workouts. Put them in your calendar like any other important event. Even a short 20-minute workout can make a big difference in how you feel. Planning ahead and having your workout clothes and equipment ready will make it easier to stick to your schedule.

• Include fun activities: If you're still feeling festive, keep the spirit alive with activities that are both fun and physically engaging. Dancing, long walks, or playing games or sports can be great ways to get moving. You can also get creative with home workouts and fun-themed activities.

• Make time for self-care and recovery: After all the festive fun, your body may need some rest. Don’t forget that recovery is just as important as working out. Practice gentle stretches or yoga to relieve stress and improve flexibility. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help ease your mind and improve your overall well-being.

• Work out with friends or family: What better way to kickstart your post-festive workouts than by involving loved ones? Working out together is a great way to stay motivated. Whether it’s a family walk or a group fitness class (both online or offline) you’ll hold each other accountable while enjoying quality time with your favorite people.

• Stay positive and have fun: After the whirlwind of the holidays, it’s okay to miss a workout or two. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Remember, fitness is a journey, not a race. Focus on how far you've come and the goals you're working towards. Above all, make sure you're having fun along the way and prepping your body for the upcoming festivals.