Hello gym workout rutt. I don’t know what’s been going on but lately I’ve been less than thrilled with my workouts. It’s been pretty rough so I’ve been trying to change some things up. Going through a rut is to be expected, right? We’ve been going to the same gym for three years now so it’s probably only natural to feel the “been there, done that feeling” we’ve both been experiencing.
I know we’re not the only ones who feel that way. The past couple of weeks I’ve been trying to limit my gym time and try some other things too. Some circumstances make it a bit harder for me, but I gotta do what I gotta do to keep my workouts fresh and exciting.
Everyone has been going gung ho on the workouts since the beginning of the year, but we’re almost to March. The newness of new year’s goals have kind of worn off and it’s been cold in most places across the country. That kind of makes it hard to stay motivated for your workout, so I thought I would offer you some tips are getting out of your gym/workout rut:
1. Go to the gym with a friend. My gym is offering bring a friend Friday. I think that’s a great idea because that’s a new way to spice up an old workout. Sometimes it’s annoying to hear people talking through their workout or being the chatty Kathy on the treadmill for an hour, but people are doing what they need to do to get through their workout. Sometimes people just need that social boost to make it a fun experience for them and this might just be a great way to keep you motivated.
2. If you’re strictly a machine gym person, try a group fitness class. If you’re a regular group fitness person, try a different class. It’s important to change up our workouts so we don’t get bored AND we challenge different muscles. If you’re always walking on the treadmill, why not try a Zumba class? Having a stressed out day? Why not try kickboxing? Adding just one new workout in a week can make a big difference.
3. Buy some new workout clothes. If you look good, you feel good and who doesn’t like to shop? I’m not telling you to go break the bank on your new clothes because you really don’t have to do it. Yesterday, I went on a run wearing some new clothes and it kind of made a difference. My attitude changed and was excited about running (after the first mile).
4. Take a day or two off from working out to do something else. Scheduling your active time everyday is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle, but also scheduling time for other things that you like to do is just as important. Read a book, listen to some music, go shopping, paint, go for a walk (instead of a run), play with your kids…whatever it is take the time away from working out to do something else you like to do. It will give you a big boost mentally and give your body a break so you’ll feel refreshed the next time you go to gym.
5. Try some new tunes. Most people workout with music. Hit the iTunes store and refresh those workout playlists. Music sets the tone for what you’re going to accomplish and hearing the same songs over and over again might be taking a toll on you mentally during your workout. I love using Spotify because I can get new music all the time without worrying about having to purchase individual songs. It might be something you want to look into.
