When you started your New Year's resolution to exercise regularly, whether to drop pounds or improve your health, the world couldn't stop you! Now, slowly but surely, the novelty is wearing off. Your heart is in the right place but something just seems off. Before beating yourself up, check out these four ways to see if it's you or your workout that needs to get back on track:
1. Your Workout Is Boring
It's easy to get bored if you do the same routine day in and day out. Variety is key. If you're a gym lover, try taking your workout out doors. Switch up your iPod playlist or even consider bringing a friend along. If none of that works, then maybe it's time to try a new activity. Now is the time to try that cycling class you've been eyeing. Changing things up can ensure your workouts are fun and give you something to look forward to.
2. Minimal Results
If you are pushing yourself every time you're in the gym but aren't seeing any results, it's easy to understand why you're ready to throw in the towel. Someone who does the same activity all the time is likely to plateau a lot sooner than someone who varies her workouts. Your body adapts to these exercises so, over time, your workout won't offer the same benefits to your physique it once did. Adding speed, distance, hills, resistance or trying a totally different activity could be just what you need to start seeing the fruits of your efforts. This will keep your muscles challenged, your body guessing, and the results coming!
3. Every Time Feels Like The First Time
Your workout should leave you with more energy, not leave you feeling depleted. If you find yourself overly exhausted or always sore, you could be over doing it. It's essential to your body to get proper rest so that it can recover. If not, you'll become weaker instead of stronger and could end up doing more harm than good. You might need up to a week off to recharge mentally and physically. Once you are feeling better, start back slowly. Reevaluate your program and make sure to make tweaks to prevent this from happening again.
Making the necessary changes to your workout routine whenever these signs come up will help keep your motivation. These days, working to improve your fitness level is non-negotiable so being aware and protecting yourself is the best way to stay on track and achieve your fitness and health goals.