You've fallen behind on your Functional Training schedule. How can you catch up and stay on track?

1 Assess Reality

To get back on track, start by realistically assessing your current situation. It's important to acknowledge the time you've missed without dwelling on it negatively. Consider the reasons why you fell behind—were they within your control or unexpected life events? Understanding these factors can help you create a more resilient training schedule moving forward. Then, take stock of your current fitness level. If you've taken a significant break, you might need to ease back into your routine to avoid injury.

2 Set Priorities

Now, prioritize your training goals. What aspects of functional training do you want to focus on? Is it improving strength, flexibility, balance, or perhaps preparing for a specific activity? By identifying what's most important to you, you can tailor your catch-up plan to address those areas. Remember, functional training is about quality, not just quantity. Concentrate on exercises that give you the most benefit and align with your goals rather than trying to make up for lost time with volume.

3 Adjust Goals

Next, adjust your goals to reflect your current situation. If you've missed several weeks, it might not be realistic to pick up exactly where you left off. Set new, achievable targets that consider any changes in your fitness level or schedule constraints. Be patient with yourself; progress in functional training is about consistent, gradual improvement. Adjusting your goals doesn't mean lowering your standards—it means setting yourself up for success by being adaptable.

4 Plan Smartly

With adjusted goals in hand, it's time to plan smartly. Break down your catch-up strategy into manageable steps. Perhaps you can increase the frequency of shorter workouts or incorporate functional training into daily activities. For example, using stairs instead of the elevator can help improve leg strength and cardiovascular health. Ensure your plan is sustainable; overly ambitious plans may lead to burnout or injury. Consistency will be your ally in catching up.

5 Seek Support

Don't underestimate the power of support. Whether it's a workout buddy, a personal trainer, or an online community, having others to share your journey with can provide motivation and accountability. They can offer encouragement when you're feeling down or celebrate with you as you reach new milestones. Plus, they can provide valuable insights and tips that might help you catch up more efficiently.

6 Stay Flexible

Lastly, maintain flexibility in your approach. Life is unpredictable, and your functional training schedule should be able to accommodate that. If you miss a session, don't stress—look for an opportunity to weave in some activity elsewhere. Stay open to adjusting your plan as needed. The key to catching up and staying on track isn't rigidity; it's the ability to adapt while keeping your eyes on your long-term fitness goals.