Resetting Your Workout Routine: Embrace the Summer Slowdown

Summer workouts can be a mixed bag. On the one hand, the warm weather and longer days make it easy to get outside and be active. On the other hand, the season brings plenty of distractions, making it harder to stick to a regular workout schedule. It’s easy to feel guilty when your exercise routine slips, but it’s important to take a step back and appreciate your progress.

For example, I’ve been focusing on my deadlift this year. Some days, the weight moves easily; other days, it feels like a struggle. But when I look back, I remember when any weight on the bar caused pain. Progress isn’t always linear, and sometimes, a break or lighter training is exactly what you need.

As StrongFirst Master Instructor Jon Engum says, “You want to step down, not fall down.” Slowing down or taking a break won’t set you back; it can actually help you move forward. Lighter workouts or easier variations can reset your body and mind, especially if you’ve been feeling stuck or unmotivated.

A few months ago, I hit a lifetime PR in my deadlift, military press, and pistol squat. After a short break, I struggled to regain my momentum. My coach advised me to “reset the hard drive” with two weeks of easy training. This reset allowed my body to recover and my motivation to return, leaving me refreshed and ready to hit the barbell again.

As summer ends and you return to your routine, be kind to yourself. If you’re in an exercise rut, don’t be afraid to hit the reset button. You might not be lifting the same weight as before, but remember to look back and appreciate how far you’ve come.