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Are you finding it difficult to get out of bed in the morning for your daily walk and making up excuses to skip the gym
on the way home? Even the most dedicated exercisers occasionally get bored with their routine. Waning motivation, cutting
workouts short and not having your old enthusiasm all are signs of a stale exercise regimen.
Quick Fix
First, evaluate your current routine to determine what really bores you. A new variation on your favorite activity such
as cardio-funk or kickboxing instead of step aerobics, or hoisting free weights instead of working on machines may be enough
to reinvigorate a stale routine.
If youve always worked out indoors, logging miles on a treadmill, stairclimber or stationary bike, move your workout outside
for a welcome change of scenery. Run, hike or bike on trails; swim in a lake or ocean.
Bigger Changes
When tweaking your routine isnt enough, make bigger changes. Take up an entirely new activity especially something you
never thought youd do. If youve always stuck to solitary pursuits, sign up for a team sport, such as volleyball, basketball
or even doubles tennis. Or tackle something youve always shied away from indulge your thirst for adventure with a rock-climbing
class (start on an indoor wall, then move to the real thing as your skills improve).
Good Company
Working out alone often is an oasis of solitude in a busy day, but maybe you need some company. Exercise companions add
a social element to any routine. Ask a friend to be your workout partneryou wont skip a workout if someone is waiting for
you.
Just about every sport or activity has a club; to find one, ask around at gyms or local community centers. Keeping up with
the crowd also means youll be challenged to improve your skills. Ask about organized workouts and fun runs offered by local
track clubs, as well as group rides hosted by cycling clubs.
Challenge Yourself
Many exercisers work out simply to stay in shape, and most of the time thats just fine. But setting a goal, such as finishing
a 10K race or completing a rough-water swim, will give your daily workouts more meaning.
Start by incorporating bursts of speed into your workouts. After a gentle warm-up, alternate a fast pace with a slower
one for recovery. This can be as simple as sprinting to the next tree, or as structured as running intervals on a track or
sprinting laps in the pool.
Add Variety
Elite triathletes pioneered the cross-training concept, and it works for the rest of us, too. If you usually focus on one
activity, substitute another a few days a week. Ideally, any exercise program includes elements of cardiovascular exercise,
weight training and flexibility.
New Toys
Small exercise gadgets aren't necessary, but they can make your workouts more fun and challenging. Heart-rate monitors,
aquatic toys and safety equipment are just a few items to consider. Find out which new training gadgets are available for
your favorite activity.
Take a Break
Sometimes you really do need time off. In that case, cut back on your usual routine, and substitute other activities. You
might even find one that you enjoy more than your old favorites.
Once youve fought your first battle with boredom, youll know the tricks to keep exercise from becoming too routine. Trying
new sports, new classes and new activities and learning how to throw a little variety into old favorites can help you overcome
the nagging inclination to devise those creative excuses for not working out. | 