It has been the biggest struggle for me as a college athlete to stay in shape after the season ends. I have had so much struggle getting back in shape for the next season after taking a month or two off for summer vacation. I finally have figured out how the fastest and most efficient way of getting back in shape, without causing pain to your body.
First Step:
The expression "you are what you eat" is perfect in this scenario. It is so important when getting back in shape to eat healthy! You are what you eat, and therefore sticking to a healthy fruit and vegetable, carb and protein balanced diet is the best way to go when trying to get back in shape. Also drinking water is KEY in building body muscle and increasing cardio endurance.
Second Step:
Put yourself on a time schedule. I know this sound cliche, but it helps to have a schedule of what you are going to do and what time of the day you will do it. This helps by allowing you to plan other things around your exercise plan for the day. If this means joining a gym and going to certain classes each day at certain times. DO IT!
Third Step:
Be dedicated and motivated! This is extremely important in getting back into shape. It is easy to fall into a lazy habit while not working out, so it is important to find your motivation to get back in shape. Whether it be because beach season is coming up, or you want to start dating someone new, you must have motivation. It also helps to find someone who is interested in getting back into shape too, this makes it so you can both keep each other motivated and on task.