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Health and Wellness

When Exercise Starts To Feel Like A Chore, It's Time To Revamp Your Workout

It's time for a change.

emmajhammer
Aug 06, 2018
University of Maryland College Park
77
When Exercise Starts To Feel Like A Chore, It's Time To Revamp Your Workout
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We've all had those days where going to the gym is the last way we want to spend our time. I usually try to exercise four or five days a week, and the gym is on the same street as my internship, so that's usually where I end up going. But sometimes the thought of going on the elliptical yet again gets old, so here are five ways I switch up my regular routine and get motivated to workout.

Take a class

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Last winter, my best friend and I were getting bored with going on the elliptical at the gym, so we started trying out different classes. We took a Monday afternoon WERQ cardio dance that had us laughing as we tried to mirror the instructor, an intense Tuesday evening spin class, and an hour long Zumba class where people got so into it that everyone would clap at the end of songs. I still go to the cardio dance class because it's so different from my regular routine. If you're thinking that dancing isn't your skill so you should pass on a dance class, try one anyway! I have absolutely no dancing skills (ask any of my friends), but dance class is still one of my favorite parts of the week. Everyone pays attention to the instructor so don't worry about getting looks from other people if you can't dance!

Switch up your playlist

If you find yourself skipping every other song halfway through, it's time to change up your playlist. Spotify has a workout genre with a bunch of different playlists for every workout. Two of my favorites are Workout Twerkout and Beast Mode. The songs will keep you moving instead of clicking the skip button!

Use a different machine

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If you're tired of using the same machine every time you hit the gym, try a different one out. Stair climbers, ellipticals, treadmills, and bikes are at most gyms, so use a new one and see if you like it. Cardio machines sometimes have built-in workouts that change the speed and resistance of your workout for a revamped sweat sesh.

Bring a friend

My longest workouts always happen when I'm with a friend. Great conversations happen on the elliptical, trust me. It's the best way to take a break from the regular routine of listening to music or watching TV during workouts. And if you're busy running around during the week and start feeling like you aren't seeing your friends enough, the gym is the perfect way to catch up on what's happening while getting something done.

Go outside

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Instead of staying inside the gym, go run at a track, play a sport, or take a hike. Certainties offer outdoor exercise classes, like yoga in a park. Got a little sibling who's been asking you to hang out? Take them outside for some soccer, a walk, or a trip to the playground. Sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes to feel re-energized!

Feeling inspired? Hit the gym and switch it up!

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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