12 ways to get back into workouts (and how it also improved my mental health)

Four years ago, I ran a half marathon in just under two hours.

I’d been training for months. I was living at home at the time (it was before our wedding and lack of visas meant Joe and I lived apart for awhile). I was in the best shape of my life, looking forward to our wedding, and training like it was my job… because well, at the time, I didn’t have a whole lot else going on. Waiting on visas and paperwork is like living in a vacuum. Not much else is happening.

So I threw myself into training. I looked good (having a good gym kit and cute womens joggers like these from Jack Wills helps). But I actually felt great.

Four years on and it’s a slightly different story. With more responsibility comes less time to work on yourself. I found myself desperately trying to fit in gym sessions last year and attempting to get back into running.

And try as I might, it was a running injury that threw me totally off course back in the summer. My knee gave way and I knew it was going to be quite some time before I’d be back in the game.

An injury or lack of time to workout can really mess with your mental health. By not being able to get back into it, I felt like I was struggling to stay positive and motivated.

So I took it step by step. And gradually things have improved both mentally and physically.

12 ways to get back into workouts (and how it also improved my mental health)

Start slow. After my injury, I took a few weeks off before realising that I needed to do something else. I signed up for classes at a fitness studio in London, Core Collective, which is a five minute walk from my flat. I suddenly had no excuses not to go.

It’s about having fun! I’ve become such an advocate for classes over the past few months. Having instructors who help you out and keep classes interesting can make all the difference. It made me feel like it was less of a chore.

Endorphins are no joke. I can feel it when I’ve been out of the gym or off running for a few days. My body gets a bit cranky and my brain doesn’t want to operate. They don’t call it a runner’s high for nothing.

Get involved with a cute gym kit. I used to love a ratty t-shirt, but I’ve found that a sassy pair of leggings and tank makes me feel that extra bit better about going to workout.

You’ll have more energy. Endorphins and energy go hand in hand. Yesterday I was absolutely dragging and one spin class later, it’s like I found a new lease of life.

Strong is the new skinny! OK, it’s just a saying, skinny is cool, bigger is cool, you’re cool no matter what your size. But having strength is AWESOME. I love being able to challenge myself as I get stronger.

Finding clarity. Being able to think clearly and put together blog posts, come up with photography ideas and generally be more creative is so helpful.

Yoga is a lifesaver. I know some people can’t stand it. I used to be one of those people. But it’s a seriously tough workout and you feel relaxed at the same time. It’s weird, it’s good.

Getting back outside. I’m getting back into running slowly but surely. I clocked in just over 4 miles the other day and it felt like I’d won an Olympic medal.

Listen to something. I love creating epic Girl Power playlists that I can run to and feel like I badass too. But for slower days, Podcasts are awesome to listen to.

Walking counts too! Don’t forget that walking can be the absolute best thing to do. It’s not strenuous and it completely tones your legs. My mom walks (along with working out) and she has the best legs ever. I sadly, did not inherit them.

I feel good again. I’m not here to tell you what to do, I’m just here to share my personal experiences. And I really do feel good from breaking a sweat and getting my workouts on. Making the time for myself again has been the gift that keeps on giving. I’m finally feeling like myself again and honestly, whatever helps you feel like the best version of yourself, commit to it.

Kelly xoxo

PS. This post is sponsored in collaboration with Jack Wills but all tips and feeling better from workouts though are my own.