How to Beat Fitness Boredom

It's easy to get bored with an exercise routine. Here's a great article that explains how to mix things up so you're always looking forward to your next workout...

(WeightWatchers.com) - Fitness Ideas: Bust out of a Workout Rut

If you're bored with your fitness routine, try these tips from Scott Cole, celebrity trainer and the author of Athletic Abs.

Get Out - Whenever possible, go outside and participate in your favorite activity al fresco, says Cole. That feeling of boredom may be from being inside all day breathing stale air, says Cole. Try doing yoga in the park or lifting weights in your backyard. "It's hard to be bored when you're breathing fresh air."

Change the CD - If you suddenly start dreading your favorite class, take note: it's probably not the activity that's boring, it's the same old soundtrack. "Ask your instructor if she can change what she's been playing. Or take a class with a different style of music," Cole says. Try a Latin cardio, hip hop, jazz, or salsa class.

Mix it Up - You can make your workout more exciting by challenging your body and your mind simultaneously. The key is to think about every movement you take. For example, lift lighter weights but try moving through each extension as slowly as you can. Walkers can do interval training on the road, says Cole. Try some standing half-squats as you go along, or stop and do some push-ups on a park bench.

Stay in the Moment - It's no wonder you get bored if you spend your workout thinking about bills sitting at home or your project at work. Cole says you'll be more focused if you push worries out of your mind. "If you find your mind is wandering, take several deep breaths inhaling and exhaling through your nose" and focus on what you're doing, he says. "Breathing is a powerful way to soothe anxieties."

Get Dressed - You wouldn't go to a party looking frumpy but many of us don grungy sweats and old t-shirts when we hit the gym. Bright, attractive clothing that fits well and wicks away sweat will make you feel good and may help you work out longer, says Cole. "When you look in the mirror and you're inspired by what you look like, time will fly by. You'll feel strong and positive if that's how you look."

Stretch and Stretch Again - Stretching, says Cole, is a forgotten exercise component. Be smart. Stretch for at least five minutes after every workout. Says Cole: "Anxiety is stored in a locked-up body. When you stretch you release tension, and all of a sudden working out is fun again."

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