Climb out of your exercise rut
Keep your exercise plan interesting and you’ll be more likely to keep on exercising. Try one (or more!) of these ideas to vary your routine.
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Test drive a new class. Most gyms offer trial memberships or a free class. This can be a good way to try out a new type of activity — even if you already belong to another gym.
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Change your style. If you usually engage in solitary exercises like running, cycling or walking, switch to a one-on-one competitive activity like badminton, tennis or basketball — or vice versa. Ask a friend to join you once a week for company, or try a team sport like soccer, volleyball … even bowling.
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Take a cue from the kids. Getting into a new activity can be easier if you do it with your family. If your youngsters seem to think they’ve invented Frisbee, head to the park and show them it’s been around for a while. If your teens are eager to snowboard, why not take a lesson? At least head out to the slopes together – you can ski while they ride.
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Hire a trainer. A professional trainer can work with you to set achievable goals and ensure that you’re doing exercises correctly. He or she will introduce additional challenges and variations as you improve, so you’ll stay motivated.
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Move to the music. Get an MP3 player if you don’t already own one. Listen to a different playlist or CD each time you exercise. Planning your playlist with motivating music will help you look forward to the next session.
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Raise the bar. Choose a new goal to inspire you — join a round robin at the tennis club, enter a road race, or track your laps at the pool and aim to go a bit further each time out.
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Reward yourself. Whether you’ve started a new program or followed your existing one for a number of weeks, acknowledge your success. Treat yourself to a new exercise outfit, a good book, or a night out at the movies.
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Learn while you go. Borrow books on tape or CD from the library to catch up on your “reading” or learn a new language while you work out.