Mix Up Your Workout Routine With Some Variety

Are you bored with your workouts? Do you feel stuck in a rut? Have you stopped getting the results you want? If you answered "YES!" to any (or all) of these questions then it's time to make a change and add in some variety!

Variety is all about changing something in your current routine or trying a completely different activity. People who do the same workouts and activities all the time are more likely to plateau sooner than those who vary them. In addition, your body can also adapt to these exercises so that they don't offer the same benefits that they once did. A little variety might be just the thing you need to get the scale moving again or bust through that strength plateau.

If you like some consistency and don't want to change your workout each time you hit the gym, change your routine at least every 4-8 weeks. This includes incorporating changes to both your cardio (adding speed, distance, resistance) and strength training exercises (changing sets, reps, weight, etc.) This will keep you from getting bored and keep your body progressing toward your fitness goals.

Here are a few more ideas of how to break out of your workout rut:

Swap routines with a friend – Take turns teaching each other some of your favorite exercises. You're bound to learn something new, or come up with new ideas together.

Take your workout outside – It's the perfect time of year to move your activities outside! Ride a bike. Swim some laps in the pool. Chase the kids around the park. Take the dog for a run. Something as simple as a change of scenery can also make a difference in your motivation and enjoyment of a workout.

Try a new exercise class – Classes are a great way to try new activities, learn from instructors and meet other class members with similar interests. There's a wide spectrum of classes from yoga to spin, Zumba to Hip-hop, step to kick-boxing, and even hula-hooping!

Try a boot camp - No class offers more variety than boot camp. Boot camp classes are a great way to keep your muscles challenged, your body guessing, and the results coming. Check with your local Y for more information about boot camp class offerings and come see what your body can do! For those of you in Nashville, I have a new class starting at the Downtown Y on June 19th. Come join us!