Creative Ways to Update Your Workout Routine
It’s common for workouts to feel a little mundane after a while. Many people who exercise every day find they need to alter their routines so that they don’t feel bored. Whether you like to box, cycle or run, it’s probably time to try a new approach if your workouts have become too mundane. A change can even improve your results!
Here are a few ways to keep your fitness regimen fresh.
1. Look for a New Class
If your routine looks like 30 minutes on a treadmill followed by dumbbell exercises, it’s time to leave your comfort zone. A new fitness class can help you expand your horizons and achieve that dream body. Your current efforts may not have the oomph you need to maintain the toned arms and legs you want. That’s where a guided class at a local gym or center can make a difference.
There are many instructed courses you can take. You may want to try HIIT, dance, Pilates or yoga. You can also explore online class options if you prefer to stay at home when you workout. Why not try a few different exercises to see which one works best? Then, it’ll be easier to find an activity you love.
2. Train for a Race
If you don’t have a goal to work toward as you exercise, it’s easy to feel bored. You may want to lose weight or become stronger, but it’s not like you’ll see those results immediately. A more tangible goal like a marathon can help you stay focused on and dedicated to your workout routine. You don’t have to choose the biggest and greatest race, either. It’s better to start small if you’re not an avid runner.
You’ll have to work consistently to train for whatever race you choose, so you should make sure that you have enough time to do so. You don’t need to become super intense — but a marathon does require dedication. It doesn’t even matter whether you finish first or last. It’ll still keep you active and interested as you step closer to that overall goal.
3. Try a Group Activity
It’s always fun to exercise when you have a friend present. You can talk and laugh as you workout, which makes the entire experience more pleasant. If you need to update your current routine, it’s smart to explore group activities where more than one person can participate. You can also help your children boost their memory and concentration if you ask them to exercise with you. That’s a simple two-for-one!
You could organize a bike ride or try a kayaking trip. Do you have access to an open field? Set up a baseball or soccer game with your friends and their kids. Choose fun activities that make you forget you’re sweating buckets and burning calories. A weekly event can bring everyone closer together, too.
4. Plan an Active Vacation
Why not mix business with pleasure? A vacation should be about peace and relaxation, but it’s also a unique opportunity to try other exercise methods. If you’ve always wanted to take your snowboard to Vail or your surfboard to Oahu, it could be an ideal time to plan that trip! A once-in-a-lifetime adventure can open your eyes to new experiences that make you a happier and healthier person.
You don’t have to travel far and wide to enjoy a fun and active vacation. Is there a local ski resort you’ve wanted to try? Maybe there’s a local beach that offers some decent waves. You can take a weekend to rediscover an exercise routine that works for you. A consistent exercise routine may create monotony, so it’s essential to break that up with a fun excursion when possible.
5. Explore With a Hike
A hike can be an effective substitute for more traditional cardio workouts. It’s often convenient to walk on a treadmill, especially when you have one at home. But not much compares to a long walk on terrain that truly challenges you as an athlete. Plus, you’ll be able to experience beautiful outdoor scenery that can provide a needed mental boost you won’t find at the gym.
If you’ve never hiked a trail before, it’s important to choose a route that’s not too difficult. Always bring a water bottle, a cell phone and any other gear you think you’ll need. You should also try to hike with a friend if you want to try a more secluded area. A hike at your local state park can be fun — but you should ensure you take precautions to limit wilderness-related emergencies.
A little responsibility goes a long way! You’ll be able to enjoy your hike much more when you prepare adequately.
Try These Tips to Make Your Exercise Routine More Enjoyable
It’s easy to feel bored when you do the same workouts every day. A few changes can make a huge difference if you need to jazz up your fitness regimen. Try these ideas to keep your exercise routine fresh.