Running
Bored with your running routine? How about changing the route, throw in some sprints, run with a fitness buddy or run with different music playlists for different days of the week? For a completely different experience you can also take it indoors and use the time to watch your favorite shows, movies or even read using the “ chip clip trick.” With the chip clip trick, you place your book or magazine on the reading rack of your cardio machine (you can also purchase lucite reading racks that fit directly over the front of your machine) then put a clip on both the left and right pages of your book so the pages stay secure and don’t move. Gently unclip and re-clip the right sides as you flip from page to page and notice how much longer you’re able to stay on the machine because you were absorbed in your reading! Even if it takes a few tries to make this work, it’s worth it. Think about all of those great books you’ve been eager to read. Here’s an opportunity to get to them while getting fit at the same time.
Working out at home
If you’re bored with your home workouts, first take note of where you’re getting your workout in. It’s hardly motivating to workout in a dark, damp or cluttered basement with no ventilation and you may be much more motivated to do the same workout if you simply took your workout upstairs. Adequate ventilation is also crucial so make sure there are windows, light and maybe a fan would help. Next, if you’d rather not use a treadmill, bike, Stairmaster, elliptical, etc. try experimenting with different DVD’s, tuning into your local fitness channel or try different workout options like creating your own boot camp class using a jump rope for cardio and your own body weight for resistance. Another option is to download podcasts, audio books or even download custom workouts onto your IPod to power you through. You can also time your workouts so that you’re working out with a live online class or search for other live online interactive workout options that may interest you.
Bored with lifting weights
Sure dumbbells can get a little boring sometimes so try varying your routine or try using a kettle ball, medicine ball, resistance machines, resistance bands or using your own body weight as resistance. There are so many great exercises you can do without any equipment at all like lunges, squats, step-ups, push-ups, chair dips, planks and other great core exercises. Kickboxing can be great too just make sure to use correct form to prevent injury. If you’re trying something new, it’s wise to sign up for a few sessions with a certified Personal Trainer who can create a program for you based on your goals, preferences and lifestyle while teaching you the correct form so you can get the most out of each repetition.
When you’re bored with your exercise, your body gets bored too and you won’t get the results you’re hoping for. With just a few tweaks to your fitness plan, you can keep your workouts fresh, fun and interesting.
