Spring break is a time for relaxation, and students take time off from not only the books but also their workout routines. Taking time off from exercise may be a good temporary choice, but now that class is back in session, it’s time to take the sneakers out and head to the gym. One’s body does not drastically lose its fitness capabilities within the span of just a week. Two weeks is the least amount of time it takes for people to lose gained fitness even if they have been exercising every day for the last year. Although it is possible for muscles to get into the groove again, doing strenuous activities too soon after a break can hinder performance and may lead to injury.

Even though some students may want to dive right in after spring break, they have to listen to their bodies first. The body sends important signals such as excessive sweating, abnormal breathing patterns and even stomach pains when it is overexerted. Exercising your body for about half the time you did before the break is ideal to get it back into a routine, and alternating between different activities will give different parts of the body time to heal while other parts of the body are working to become fit again. If you do not listen to the warning signs, it can lead to an increased risk of illnesses and injuries.

Another tip to remember when returning to your exercise routine is to practice healthy habits as well. Exercise is important for a healthy lifestyle, but it is only one component in overall well-being. Eating right and sleeping well are important because they help the body recover, repair and rejuvenate muscles. When the muscles are rested and refueled, they are ready to conquer anything. The most crucial time for fueling is before and after exercise. Think of sleep as the body’s medicine after a workout session. In order to feel good, the body needs its medicine every day. Otherwise, everything else will be unbalanced.

Students often end up returning from spring break ready to conquer anything, but it is important to realize the body is adaptable only if it is cared for with respect. Eating, exercising and sleeping can make the body a well-oiled machine, able to take on the world.