back in shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "back in shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who has regained their physical fitness or health after a period of being unfit or unhealthy. Example: "After months of training, I finally feel back in shape and ready for the marathon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Health & Fitness

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'm trying to get back in shape.

The New York Times - Sports

Back in Shape was placed fourth.

The New York Times - Sports

"When you get out of shape, get back in shape.

The New York Times

We get enough days off to get back in shape.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a drawing exercise, to get myself back in shape.

The New Yorker

P11 Louis Smith back in shape for reality show Tumble.

The Guardian

"We're getting back in shape, slowly but surely".

The New York Times - Sports

I was hoping to get back in shape.

The New Yorker

Now that times are harder they should contribute disproportionately to get the economy back in shape.

Independent

T.T.: After giving birth, was there a certain workout that helped you get back in shape?

The New York Times

But now, it's easier to stay in shape than it is to get back in shape.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "back in shape" when referring to regaining a previous, desirable condition after a period of decline; if there was no decline, then "in shape" would suffice.

Common error

Avoid using "back in shape" when referring to initial attainment of fitness or condition. The phrase implies a return to a prior state, not a first-time achievement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "back in shape" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase describing the act of restoring someone or something to a previous, desirable condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to indicate a return to a former state of fitness, health, or functionality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sports

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "back in shape" is a common prepositional phrase used to describe the process of regaining a former state of fitness, health, or functionality. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered grammatically correct. It appears most frequently in news, sports, and health-related content. To provide clarity, specify what area has returned "back in shape". Remember, this phrase indicates a return to a prior state, not the initial attainment of a condition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

got fit again

A more straightforward way of saying "back in shape".

regained fitness

Focuses specifically on recovering physical fitness.

back to full strength

Highlights the recovery of physical strength.

returned to form

Emphasizes a return to a previous state of capability or condition.

fighting fit

British English expression meaning in excellent physical condition.

recovered condition

Highlights the act of recovering a desired physical state.

in good condition again

Describes the state of being in good physical condition after a decline.

back to their old self

Refers to regaining a previous state of health or well-being.

rehabilitated

Often used in the context of recovering from an injury.

back on track

Implies a return to a desired course or plan, often related to health or fitness goals.

FAQs

How can I use "back in shape" in a sentence?

You can use "back in shape" to describe regaining physical fitness or health after a period of being unfit. For example, "After months of training, I finally feel "back in shape" and ready for the marathon."

What's a good alternative to "back in shape"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "regained fitness", "returned to form", or "got fit again".

Is it correct to say "getting back into shape"?

Yes, "getting back into shape" is a correct and common variation, similar in meaning to "back in shape". Both phrases refer to the process of regaining fitness or a desired condition.

What is the difference between "in shape" and "back in shape"?

"In shape" refers to the current state of being fit or in good condition, whereas "back in shape" implies that someone or something was previously in good condition but then declined, and is now returning to that state.