by Lela Simon

Created on: March 24, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

Looking to change your boring old routine and create some excitement in your workout? Try these 10 easy ways to make everything more interesting!

1) Try a class- for those not afraid of looking a little silly this can be an adventurous and cheap way of adding interest to a boring workout.There is so much out there to choose from, group strength classes, step, even strip aerobics there is something out there for everyone.And guys before you shove this idea to the side, you might be surprised by how hard a workout you can get in a class!

2) Get a trainer- If your more the shy type or if you just can't see yourself step touching to the latest Beyonce hit, a personal trainer might be the thing. A trainer can look at your routine and identify problems as well as be a fun and interesting partner to keep time rolling forward.

3) Kick it old school- Literally. Remember when all you needed was a jump rope and a jungle gym and life was good? Go play in the park! Sure some of the moms might look at you funny and you will definitely need to bend your knees more, but there is always some semi-deserted playground around, so go have some fun!

4) Seek a geographic cure- Maybe you have a friend who works out at a different gym and you can get the hook up on a guest pass, maybe you have to pay for a day pass. Either way go check out another gym! Even if you are happy where you are at, seeing something different can help liven things up a bit.

5) Try a different mode- Your a machine master, the sultan of selectorizing. Okay hot shot, lets see how you do in the free weight room. Like wise Mrs. Dumbell Queen let us see you work those machines! There are good things about all modes of exercise but we tend to stick to what is comfortable. Guess what, comfortable is BORING!

6) Do it, backwards-Next time you jump on a treadmill, try facing the wall instead of the T.V.. Start slow and make sure you use the safety trigger if one is available. It's fun and different.

7) How many reps?-Try changing your repetitions. If you are doing high volume training (20 + reps) cut it in half and double your weight. Already doing a set of 8? Bump it up to 12 and lower your weight by a quarter. Your muscles get bored too, and won't be affected by doing the same old work out every time. And ladies, unless you are taking testosterone you wont bulk up if you use heavier weights, so don't be scared!

8) Friends are nice- Have a friend come to keep you company, it is much easier to work out if there is someone to commiserate with later.

9) Eat a snack- There is nothing worse than dragging yourself to the gym when you don't have the energy to really work out. Have a snack about an hour before you are ready to hit the gym, preferably something that has both protein and complex carbohydrates. Think whole wheat English muffin with peanut butter or an apple and a piece of low fat cheese.

10) Take a nap- this goes along the same line as number 9. Rest is an important part of the growth cycle in exercise. If you aren't getting enough sleep at night, taking a nap can be a good alternative, and a real treat.

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