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Beating Boredom

Do you find yourself bored with your current exercise routine?  Maybe you find it hard to stay motivated.  In either case, becoming bored and unmotivated with your workouts is not that uncommon.  Most people find it boring to do the same thing day in and day out.  At first, it’s the routine that keeps us on track, but over time it can be that same routine that keeps us away!  If you are cutting your routines short, skipping days, or don’t have the same enthusiasm as you did first starting out, it could be time to give your routine a makeover.

Small Changes
Sometimes it is the small things that make a big difference.  Try changing the type of exercise class that you attend, run or walk outdoors instead of on the treadmill, or go swimming instead of running.

Big Changes
When making small adjustments don’t work, try doing something drastic.  Take on a challenge you never thought you could do.  Something like kayaking, rock-climbing or joining a team sport like volleyball might be the key.

Make a Friend
Sometimes our workout is our only quiet time during the day.  Adding a buddy to your routine however, may help in making you more accountable to working out.  You likely won’t skip a work out if someone is depending on you.

Set a New Goal
Many of us begin an exercise routine for simple reasons.  We want to lose weight, look younger, improve our balance, etc.  Maybe it is time for you to start setting higher goals.  Setting a more challenging goal, such as finishing a half marathon, will give your daily routine more meaning.

Add Variety
Many of us do the same activity day in and day out.  Try changing it up everyday.  Maybe one day you run, the next day you bike and the third day you swim.  Make sure that you equally enjoy all the different activities that you choose.  That way you can look forward to the next day’s workout.

Change Equipment
Getting a new piece of exercise equipment can add a new level of excitement and challenge.  In addition, buying new clothing can show you the level of accomplishment received thus far.  Maybe you’ve lost some weight or inches and a new size is in order.

Take Time Off
Sometimes your schedule just gets too hectic.  In that case, try to cut back a little.  Maybe doing a 30 minute routine instead of your usual 60 minutes is exactly what you need. 

Making small or large changes, adding a workout partner, setting new goals, adding daily variety, getting new equipment and taking some time off can all be ways to battle exercise boredom.  Hopefully now you have some more insight and knowledge to keep you motivated and active!