Jump Start Your Activity! (aka Monotony Part 2)

Sticking with the same fitness routine is rarely dangerous. But, as I recently encountered, the resulting boredom can become yet another obstacle to being active.
Here are some things that may help energize (or jump start) your activity level. Consider these as tools for your healthy living toolbox. Just like with real tools, you need to find the right tool for your project.

Consider...
- Motivation:  Identify a specific, meaningful reason that sums up why you choose to be active. (Remember, being active-- or inactive-- is an actual choice.) When waivering, focus on that reason.
- Goal:  Selecting a goal gives you something concrete to work towards. Use the SMART method (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timeframe-- see 1/9/12's post to review). Evaluate & adjust your goal as needed.

Consider Changing...
- Place:  Maybe it's not the activity that bores you... Try changing your route or surroundings.
- Time:  Picking a different time of day may help (especially during hot, humid weather). Or, unless it interferes with your goal, try breaking your activity into smaller chunks (e.g., 3- 10 minute sessions instead of 1- 30 minute session).
- Spice up a current activity:  1) Increasing speed lets you accomplish your immediate goal faster. Decreasing speed may be a welcomed break or a chance to lengthen your workout. 2) Adding hills or incline challenges your body to work harder in the same or less time. 3) Try intervals or a circuit. Intervals routinely vary speed or incline. You move from activity to activity without resting during a circuit (e.g., 1 min march in place -> 1 min arm exercises -> 1 min march -> 1 min leg exercises, etc.) For more details, check out the American Council on Exercise's Benefits of Varying Your Workout Routine.
- Try a New Activity:  This could be a new class (at the gym or VGCC); a new DVD (free options-- try the library, search online, or trade with a friend); or something less formal. The Time Warner Cable Health-On-Demand channel has many FREE Cardio, Yoga, & Pilates videos available.
- Be Social:  A friend can encourage you to remain active & help the time fly by. Or, find or start a group that's interested in the same activity!
- Listen to Music:  Upbeat music has been shown to both distract the brain & increase endurance.

Want more guidance? Check out the FamilyDoctor.org's The Exercise Habit.
In search of more activity ideas? Check out Choose My Plate's Tips For Increasing Physical Activity.