This is a guest post by Tory McBroom.
Working out is boring. And trying to cook “healthy” isn’t fun either.
We’ve all heard these excuses and are probably even guilty of using them once or twice (or more) as a way to get out of exercising and eating right.
The “getting fit isn’t fun” complaint is a popular one. It’s right up there with “I don’t have time”. But, this excuse doesn’t have to be true.
In fact, if those looking to get fit would spice up their workouts and make them fun, it would be a lot easier to stick with their exercise program for the long run.
That means not only losing the weight and improving their health, but most importantly keeping the weight off and living a healthy life.
So, disregard everything you think you know about exercise and how boring it is, and let’s look at a few ways we can spice up your workouts and make them fun again.
Pick An Activity
Instead of putting yourself through the same boring exercise routine day after day, pick a fun activity that yields the same results. There’s plenty of options like hiking, biking, nature walks, swimming or playing basketball, for example. If you don’t look at it as exercise, but rather a fun activity then you are more likely to stick with it.
Play Some Tunes
Listening to music is a great way to add a little entertainment value to your workout’s. A study in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness found that listening to music increased the comfort level of doing the exercise. It doesn’t matter what type of music it is just as long as it’s something you like.
Find A Friend
Exercising with a friend, family member or group can be a fun way to get fit. It also increases accountability, making it less likely that you will skip workouts because you don’t want to let the other person down. Find a friend or family member with similar goals in mind and make an oath to workout with each other. If you prefer groups then sign-up for a fitness class or join a mall walking club.
Choose The Right Intensity
Just because your workout DVD says you have to keep up an intense pace doesn’t mean it’s right for you. When starting out, exercise at a pace that you are comfortable with. Then slowly set goals to elevate that pace as you progress. You will find that your workouts are less emotionally stressful and you will be more apt to continue with your workout plan.
TV
The TV is typically thought of as one of the main reasons many American’s are overweight. And this can be true to an extent. But, watching television while working out at the gym can help keep you from staring at the clock and take your mind off the task at hand. Most gyms have at least one TV going at all times and some treadmills even have them built in. Try planning your workout around your favorite show and you’ll notice your workout is over before you know it.
Wii Fit by Nintendo is another popular way to use your TV to get healthy. This game allows you to take part in 40+ activities, set goals, etc and it’s perfect for both adults and children.
Like This Post? Give me the thumbs up