Bust out of your fitness rut

Try something new for the fun and fitness of it!

Break out of your routine

Let’s be honest, at given times throughout the year we fall into a rut when the activities we do in our daily life become “routine”.

When it comes to fitness it’s important to have a routine, however, if nothing changes in our fitness routine (such as the exercises we choose to do, the intensity we give, the time we spend, the numbers of reps and sets we perform) eventually we stop seeing results and lose interest in fitness altogether.

The first thing to understand is that falling into a fitness rut is perfectly normal. What’s most important to understand is that you can lower the risk of falling into a rut (or avoid it altogether) by trying something new, or simply different, on a regular basis at least every six weeks.

Although as humans we are all creatures of habit I encourage you to change up your fitness routine or regimen just enough to surprise your body, motivate your mind and keep your fitness spirit soaring strong.

Do something different

This past summer, while nursing an injury, I started to feel myself slip into a rut and there were actual days that I didn’t even feel like exercising. I started noticing my energy dropping and my interest in teaching and training with my personal trainer gradually declined.  Luckily, I recognized “the rut” and acknowledged the reasons behind how I was feeling and made a change.

Change initially was hard because I’d been doing what I was doing for many years. But, I decided that “if nothing changes than nothing would change” and if I was to get out of my rut I had to just do it. I decided that I’d introduce a different pattern for two months and after that I could return to my regular routine. So, I embarked on some new fitness activities and classes.

Reflecting back I realize now just how liberating it was to do something different. My weekly routine changed slightly, I got to practice more yoga (which became my rehabilitation for my hip injury) and the best part was that I spent more time researching new exercises and being outdoors on my bike.

Now’s your chance

Now it may be your turn to shake up your fitness routine, or simply embark on trying new exercises. GoodLife can help you!

Try a new Group EXercise class, or get reacquainted with one you haven’t tried in awhile. You’ll get to enjoy new music, moves and routines. It’ll be the perfect opportunity to challenge mind and body and re-awaken your passion for fitness.

There may also be some new small group training programs introduced in your club, such as TRX Team Training. These are short term programs (6-8 weeks in length) that introduce you to new fitness concepts.  Commit to try one new program this month and participate at least three times (within two weeks) before you decide if it’s right for you.

Treat yourself to something new to motivate yourself to create change – a new pair of workout shoes or a new outfit! That always works for me and is a friendly reminder of my new fitness goal.

Have a great month welcoming a change into your life. You will thank yourself for doing so.

Yours in fitness and good health,
Mo