If your workouts have started feeling more like a chore than a choice, you’re not alone. Many people experience exercise ruts, but the good news is that shaking things up can help reignite your motivation and make fitness fun again!

Here are some tips to help you enjoy working out again in Lafayette, IN.

 

Change Your Scene

A change of scenery can do wonders for your workout mindset. Lafayette is full of great outdoor options for fitness enthusiasts. Explore the trails at the Wabash Heritage Trail or Columbian Park for hiking or running.

Prefer to stay indoors? Explore the different areas of the Lafayette Family YMCA—like the indoor walking track, basketball court, aquatics center, exercise equipment areas, group fitness classrooms, and more. Sometimes, simply moving your workout to a new location can make it feel fresh and exciting.

 

Try Something New

One of the simplest ways to get excited about working out again is to change up your exercises and try something new.

Consider signing up for an exercise class you’ve never tried before, such as Zumba, yoga, or weightlifting. Maybe instead of running on the treadmill, you can swim a few laps in the pool. There are plenty of different ways to get moving and strengthen different muscle groups, so don’t feel like you have to stick with one exercise routine—especially if it’s turned into a chore.

 

Mix Up Your Schedule

Speaking of changing up your routine, changing when and how you work out can also mix things up. If you’re used to morning runs, try switching to an evening walk or jog. Or if you always do cardio, consider adding strength training to your week.

Changing your schedule will not only bring a new feeling to working out but will also change the feeling of your day overall. While variety is key, consistency matters too—so make sure to keep your workouts on your schedule, even as you mix things up.

 

Get a Workout Buddy

A great way to stay motivated and maintain accountability is to get a workout buddy. Whether it’s a friend, family member, coworker, or people in your exercise classes, teaming up with someone who shares your fitness goals can add a social element to your routine and help you push past plateaus.

 

Put It in a New Perspective

Words have power, and so does perspective. If the idea of “working out” feels daunting, try reframing it in your mind. Instead, maybe shift the focus to learning a new skill. Take a martial arts class, start rock climbing, or learn to dance. This allows you to stay active in a way you can look forward to.

 

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or visit our website here.