4 Ways Lifters Can Shake Off Gym Rust If It’s Been a While

Bodybuilding, powerlifting, and overall fitness are lifelong journeys. Turns out, the motto “It’s a marathon, not a sprint” applies all too perfectly. Some of us start training young and never stop. Others might unintentionally take an extended “break” for weeks, months, or even years. We’re all on our own journey, so whether you’ve suffered an injury, your gym closed, or you just got too busy to stay consistent, the important thing is you’re getting back into it. That being said, things will feel a little different the first time you throw on your bodybuilding clothing and hit the iron again. Here’s how to shake off that gym rust.
 

Bodybuilding Clothes

Assess the Situation
 
The first thing you need to do is be honest with yourself. You’ve likely lost some gains during your break, but that won’t be the case forever. It’s essential to start with a routine based on where you currently are, not where you were when you stopped training. It might sting the old ego a bit at first, but as long as you follow a consistent, steady routine, you’ll start regaining your strength and size—and soon, you’ll be setting new all-time PRs.
 
Don’t Compare Yourself
 
Every lifter has their own journey, their own story. However, when you step back into the gym, it can begin to feel like you’re a small fish in an ocean of sharks. Worse still, you used to be one of those sharks. If you start comparing yourself to other people based on their size or strength, it can feel disheartening. Your best bet? Don’t even let comparisons enter the conversation. You’re still the same person, just a little rusty. But you’re far from a beginner, and with some consistency, you’ll get back into the swing of things sooner than you may even think.
 
Keep Pushing When It Gets Hard
 
Once the wheels start turning and you get some consistent gym sessions under your belt, it’s time to keep your foot on the gas. Before every workout, set a specific goal that will help you give even more effort than you did last time. You want to challenge yourself and prove to yourself that you’ve still got it. Increase the weight, push yourself for more reps, stay a little bit later to squeeze in some cardio— do whatever it takes to increase the intensity and keep moving forward.
 
Try Something New
 
Following the same routine for months doesn’t allow much room for experimentation. Many lifters have a set routine with numbers and percentages to work toward over the next few months. Since you’re just getting back into the swing of things, use this readjustment period as an opportunity to do something you’ve always wanted to do. Try a new routine, use different types of equipment, or set an entirely different goal than you ever have before. The important part is having fun in the gym again and shaking the rust off. There are no rules, so throw on your bodybuilding clothes and do what you’ve always wanted to do.
 
About GASP
 
GASP does things a little bit differently than the rest. This bodybuilding apparel brand creates T-shirts, stringers, shorts, joggers, and other apparel designed with the modern bodybuilder in mind. The brand works closely with lifters from all walks of life to perfect their designs, making them practically tailored to the actual bodybuilder’s physique. GASP’s apparel isn’t boxy, baggy, or tight in all of the wrong places. Instead, it’s designed from the ground up to fit the modern bodybuilder. Along with offering a huge selection of premium bodybuilding apparel, GASP provides an inclusive community for bodybuilders. If you leave it all in the weight room and have a no-compromise approach to life, GASP is proud to welcome you.
 
Learn more about GASP and their commitment to bodybuilders at https://www.gaspofficial.com/

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