Monday, July 28, 2008

10 Ways to Add Spark to Your Exercise Program

  • Head for the Great Outdoors
    Do you always exercise indoors? Lately, has the sound of clanging weights set your teeth on edge? Why not exercise outside? Try walking or running at a beach, park or lakefront. Look for what nature has to offer. Maybe you can do sit-ups by propping your feet up on some rocks or pull-ups on a very strong tree branch.

  • Take a Group Fitness Class
    If you're used to exercising in a gym, but don't set foot in the group fitness studio, give it a try! Imaginative fitness professionals are always creating new types of classes. Gone are the days of just hi- or low-impact classes. You may sample indoor cycling classes, yoga, group strength training, Latin dance or more. See what your gym has to offer.

  • Get Some New Music or Books on Tape
    If you love working out alone, maybe you just need something new to listen to. Get lost in a compelling story with a book on tape or try a new musical style. If you love rock 'n roll, try jazz or classical just for a kick!

  • Ask a Friend to Join You
    If new music doesn't motivate you, try taking a friend on your daily walks. This can make the time fly by and give you a whole new perspective on your favorite trail.

  • Look for Inner Calm
    Are your workouts usually hard-driving, go-'til-you-drop types of affairs? Maybe you need to try Tai Chi, meditation or yoga to still your inner voice. In addition to adding variety to your workout, being able to tune into your inner voice can prove valuable in your professional and personal life.

  • Stretch Yourself
    You may be burned out on your workout because your muscles are sore. Are you stretching after your workout? See if your gym has stretching charts or take a stretching or yoga class. Or, ask a fitness professional to show you some effective stretches.

  • Create a Family Workout
    Are you feeling guilty because the time you spend exercising takes you away from your significant other or kids? Maybe that's why you have the workout blahs. Get your family together and brainstorm physical activities you can do together.

  • Seek the Services of a Personal Trainer
    If you feel like you are not improving in your workouts that is sure to give you the blahs! Try hiring a personal trainer for a few sessions or a short-term period. He or she can examine your workout and suggest ways for you to get stronger or faster.

  • Give Yourself a Goal
    Shake up your workout program by setting a goal -- participating in a triathlon, running a 5K or hiking up a local mountain. Then structure your workouts to meet your goal. Working toward -- and achieving -- your goal will re-energize you!

  • Look at What You're Eating
    You may be feeling sluggish in your workouts if you are not eating the right food. Are you eating enough calories and enough fruits and vegetables? It may be worth consulting with a registered dietitian to find out.
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