Battling Boredom

When your current routine just won’t do. I know we all get bored with our daily routines once in awhile, I myself have to change it up all the time to deal with this one. Maintaining new and exciting routines is one of the things we do at WBF. If you are finding yourself getting a little bored with your normal routine, here is an idea that will give you a new found enjoyment out of your fitness routine.
Quick Fix
First, evaluate your current routine to determine what really bores you. A new variation on your favorite activity—such as cardio-blast or Boxing instead of step aerobics, or hoisting free weights instead of working on machines—may be enough to reinvigorate your stale routine.
If you’ve 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. Do a run after your workout at the gym down to the Esplanade rather than the treadmill! It is 3 miles from WBF to Steel Bridge along the waterfront and back again!

Bigger Changes
When tweaking your routine isn’t enough, make bigger changes. Take up an entirely new activity—especially something you never thought you’d do. If you’ve always stuck to solitary pursuits, sign up for a team sport, such as volleyball, basketball or even doubles tennis. Or tackle something you’ve always shied away from—indulge your thirst for adventure and take up cycling! A great way to burn a lot of calories and have fun while you are doing it. Plus, there are many rides for the philanthropists and charitable that focus on specific charities and organizations!
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 partner—you’re much less likely to skip a workout if someone is waiting for you. Classes like our New Group cardio , boxing and yoga are great ways to workout with your friends or meet new ones! Now and through the month of July, bring a friend to class and receive a FREE class!
Keeping up with the crowd also means that you’ll 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 that’s just fine. But setting a goal, such as finishing a 10K race or completing a tough hike, will give your daily workouts more meaning.
Start by incorporating bursts of speed into your workouts, I suggest our 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 should include 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. Pedometers, heart-rate monitors, iPods, 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 an activity that you enjoy more than your old favorites. Once you’ve fought your first battle with boredom, you’ll 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 your old standbys—can help you overcome the nagging inclination to devise those creative excuses for not working out.
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Yours in Health & Wellness,
Tammie