You've been busting your tail for weeks doing the same workout program your best friend is doing, only she's getting amazing results and your body looks like nothing's changed. Don't panic. Not every fitness routine works for everyone the same way and not every program is a great fit for you.
We are all unique and have differetn needs, wants and likes. It's important to find a fitness program that works for you, preferably one that you actually enjoy doing!
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
Do you feel motivated to do your workout? If the idea of running on a treadmill for an hour has you running for the couch instead of the gym, you need to do something else. Seriously, if your fitness routine bores you or you hate it, don't do it. You want to find an activity or workout program that you can get excited about – one that you can't wait to do.
Is time the issue? If the time you exercise is causing you to skip your workouts, then change it up. For example, you don't have an hour, but you can find 20 minutes to work out. In that case, just up the intensity during those 20 minutes. If you're too tired to get the to gym after work, then go during your lunch break or before work. If you're not an early riser, don't beat yourself up about not getting to the gym before work. Find a time that works best for you and stick to it. Only you can figure that out.
Do you prefer the great outdoors? Your friends may be getting great results in the gym, but every time you go, you feel claustrophobic because you'd rather be outside. The good news is there are plenty of activities you can do outdoors to get in shape! Hike, bike, swim, kayak, skate – think it and do it. Pick up rocks, climb hills and make the world your gym.
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Or maybe you prefer the great indoors ... like your living room? COVID-19 has changed the way we do fitness. While some gyms remain open, if you'd rather work out from the comfort of your home, there are workouts aplenty availalbe at your fingertips. All you have to do is search for them! Often times you can find workouts that require little to no equipment. You could also download apps that offer a plethora of workouts.
Do you need to hire a professional? If you're getting back into fitness after a long hiatus or you've never really figured out what to do for an exercise routine, consider hiring a personal trainer. Hiring a personal trainer is a great way to get a customized program that is specifically tailored to your unique fitness level, body type and goals. Be sure to have a well-defined list of goals you can share with your trainer. The more detailed your goals, the easier it is for a trainer to help you get there. You don't have to go to a gym to hire a trainer, you can hire a virtual trainer online.
What activities do you enjoy doing? Do you like to dance? Did you play sports when you were in high school or college and would love to play again? Do you like group exercise? The important thing here is to find something you love to do and make it work for you. Find a dance class, go to a gym that has racquetball or basketball courts and sign up for leagues, or take that yoga or outdoor boot camp class at your local gym or community recreation center.
Truly, the possibilities are endless. Make sure to monitor your progress to see if what you're doing is working for you. If not, find another activity that will get you better results. The key is to never give up and always keep moving! Your body will thank you.
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NEXT UP: What Time of Day is the Best Time To Work Out?
