You already know that exercise is good for your body, mind, and spirit—but what happens when you start feeling bored with the whole thing? If your workout routine feels a bit too routine, here are 6 ways to breathe new life into it.
1. Try a new kind of pickle. Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the country. It’s a group sport that’s a blend of tennis, table tennis (or ping-pong), and badminton. Players use paddles to hit a light plastic ball over a net. Check your community recreation centers and YMCAs for pickleball programs.
2. Step up your walking routine. So, you walk regularly, but you’re tired of it. How about walking your regular route—but in the opposite direction? Or create a new route that takes you through a different neighborhood or a park you enjoy visiting. You could also try mini-intervals. Walk as fast as you can for a minute, and then slow back down. Take a few minutes at your regular pace to catch your breath, then walk fast again. The challenge will make time fly—and will change up your routine.
3. Challenge both your body and mind. Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines physical poses, or postures, with breathing techniques and meditation. This ancient practice can be adapted for anyone, including those with any physical limitations or disabilities.
4. Make your home sparkle and shine. You don’t need a gym to exercise. Household chores like dusting, mopping, and vacuuming all count as physical activity—and the more you do, the better your home looks! You may look forward to those tasks when you realize they’re doubling as exercise.
5. Add something new to the mix. Any activity is bound to get boring when you do it day after day. Look for a class or activity that you’ve never tried before. Does your gym offer water aerobics? Have you always wanted to try a Zumba class? Or what about trying tai chi? Ask your friends what they enjoy and don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone.
6. Bond with a buddy. Having exercise partners makes you more likely to stick to your exercise routine—and they’re often easy to find. Ask a neighbor if they would like to walk regularly. Planning to carpool to the gym with a pal is another way to stay motivated. You can socialize while you exercise—a win-win for both of you!
So don’t let boredom derail your progress. Adding a new ingredient to your exercise mix may be your perfect fitness recipe.
The StayWell Company, LLC ©2022
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