However, this article is geared to the recreational athlete who has taken some time off from their fitness activities and looking to make their own comeback. The recreational athlete might not have the same motivation as professional athletes (money, glory, etc.) to make a comeback, but there are still compelling reasons. For instance, feeling healthier and being a positive example to family and friends. The guidelines below are to enhance your physical progress and psychological enjoyment to returning to your athletic pursuits. As we are each an experiment of one, please feel free to personalize the suggestions below as you make your comeback!

The first guideline is to come back gradually to your fitness activities. A general rule is that the longer your time away from fitness activities, the more gradual your return. Additional factors such as recovering from an injury and an excessive body fat percentage should be factored into your equation. If it has been a significantly long layoff, an appointment for a check up with your physician might be beneficial. By making your comeback gradual, you are allowing your body to absorb the fitness training which is essential for progress. Furthermore, it will also decrease your chances of injury.

The second guideline is to record your progress. This will allow you to keep an objective measure with your training with regards to your fitness activities. It is also a great opportunity to record your subjective feelings as you make your comeback. Finally, it can make for a useful marker in terms of looking at progress over time. For example, a person who returns to running and initially can only run one mile is running two miles a month later and is running five miles six months later.

The third guideline is to make your comeback fun. This can include surrounding yourself with training partners, picking an event to participate in such as a bike ride or run race, varying the training, and maintaining an optimistic outlook. A general rule of thumb is that given the choice, we tend to spend our time on activities that we enjoy.

Implementing the above guidelines should enhance your comeback. This should lead to greater overall health and enjoyment. The best of luck and success!

Cory Bank, Ph.D., is the founder of the Abington Center for Therapy and Sports Psychology (www.abingtonpsychology.com). Dr. Bank specializes in individual therapy with children, adolescents, and adults including sports psychology, adjustment issues, relationship issues, school issues, and stress management. Dr. Bank seeks to focus on each person’s strengths and needs in order to assist each individual to reach their fullest potential.  He is also an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Montgomery County Community College and serves as an Adjunct Professor at Rosemont College in the Graduate Program of Education. Dr. Bank has completed the Ironman USA Triathlon and multiple marathons. He has been featured on WIP AM, WWDB AM, USA Today, and The Philadelphia Inquirer.