- Change Your Type of Exercise. We often get bored exercising because we do the same thing over and over. Switching equipment or type of exercise opens up a whole new world to explore.
- Hire a Trainer. If you are in a rut, the right trainer will be a huge motivator and will help you find a different, and most likely, more effective, workout.
- Get Competitive. If you always just go to the gym do the same thing, a specific competitive goal can really change your focus and motivation and jump start your workout routine. Sign up for a 5K race, join a recreational league or team, make a bet with a friend or with yourself to accomplish a fitness goal.
- Add Music. Something with a great beat is sure to get your heart pumping and keep you motivated so you exercise longer.
- Track Your Progress. By writing down your exercise, time and intensity, you are more likely to look forward to workouts and follow your results over time.
- Change Your Route. If you always walk, run, or bike the same place, change it up. Finding new scenery can really change your perspective and interest during exercise.
- Exercise Together. If you always exercise alone, try exercising with others. Not only is it motivational, but it can be fun.
- Encourage Someone Else. Coaching, advising, or supporting someone else in exercise is a huge way to motivate yourself. It can remind you of all the things you used to love about your workouts and energize you to find new reasons to enjoy what you know.
- Add Interval Training. If you have a good base of fitness, it might be time to up the intensity of your workouts. Add a 20-minute interval training session that includes 30-second bursts of ‘sprint efforts’ followed by 60 seconds of recovery.
- Take a Rest. If you are a hard-core chronic exercise fanatic, a short hiatus from your workout won’t harm you and it may do some real good. If you are overtraining, stressed and not getting enough sleep, a week off may just be the thing you need to recharge your body and mind. Don’t be afraid to rest.
Recharge Your Workout
Getting Out of a Fitness Rut
By Elizabeth Quinn, About.com
Updated: May 22, 2007
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Are you are bored with the same exercise routine day after day? Here are a few ideas to help you break free of your fitness rut.
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