I am one of the crazies who enjoys working out, but for many people it’s a chore. The truth is, we are far more likely to repeat a behavior that we find enjoyable. With that in mind, why not add a little fun to your fitness routine?
- MUSIC
Music has the ability to shape your emotions. If you want to add energy to your body, you should add a little energy to your music. If your workout of the day calls for stretching, play something that will help you relax and unwind. Being strategic with your music selection will help you feel more successful with your fitness routine. Pre-plan some playlists that you can call upon to set the mood for your workout. To shake things up a little bit, have a friend create a mystery playlist, and during the workout try to guess the underlying connection to all the songs. It’s a great way to make time fly while you exercise! - THEMES
Music isn’t the only thing you can theme. Why not workout with friends, and have everyone wear their favorite jersey or dress like someone famous. Themes don’t have to be complicated. They can be as simple as wearing crazy socks or a common color, but the idea of collaborating with a group can really be a game-changer and get everyone excited about the workout. - GET OUTDOORS
A change of scenery can do a world of good to the psyche. Instead of going to the same studio or room every time you exercise, take your workout outside. Change up your routine by adding some short jogs, or run stairs for cardio. Use a park bench for tricep dips or step-ups. A little bit of fresh air on a nice day can be an invigorating way to increase endorphins and boost your mood. - GAMES
A little playful competition can be a great motivator. To add a little excitement to your routine, try challenging a friend to a plank contest, or see how many mountain climbers you can do in a minute. Challenges bring about a sense of togetherness. Games can also keep monotony from setting into your fitness routine. Roll some dice or draw a card from a deck to determine how many reps you will do. Pull workout moves out of a hat to add an element of surprise to your sets. There are so many ways you can turn hard work into FUN work. Let your creativity flow! - DANCE
Some people dance as their chosen form of workout. They are usually the ones who are smiling and having fun while they sweat. If that is not you, or if you have two left feet, dancing might be the last thing on your mind when it is time to exercise. Dancing is a way to tell your body to let go and take the edge off. Whether you choose an hour long hip hop class or simply move your hips between sets of heaving lifting, dancing will help to relieve additional stress and uplift your spirit. The structure of weight lifting is important, but why not do a little nae nae as you move from the squat rack to the mat for abs. You might just lift the mood of the people around you too – Just sayin’. - REWARDS
Celebrating accomplishments is important, especially after long, enduring hard or unpleasant work. There are competitions and accountability groups that will help you stay on track and celebrate milestones in your weight loss or fitness journey (see JOIN). If that is not your thing, you can still establish a reward system for yourself for hitting your fitness milestones. Maybe if you complete three workouts per week for an entire month, you allow yourself to go buy that cute workout outfit you have been admiring, or splurge on a new pair of kicks. Be careful that your rewards do not negate your efforts! Going out for margaritas and chips once you finally loose three pounds will likely throw you off course and end up frustrating you. You have to be strategic and plan your rewards in advance so that you stay motivated.
Whether you prefer working out alone or in a group, breaking away from routine once in a while will keep your exercise regime from feeling monotonous. Be creative, and continuously look for new ways to inspire yourself and those around you to keep moving towards a healthy lifestyle.
Kore10 Fitness 