3 tips to break out of a fitness rut

If your exercise routine has gotten stale or you’ve noticed a dip in your results, it’s time to mix things up. Try these ideas to break out of your fitness rut.

Find a workout buddy
Exercising with a friend will help you stay accountable and committed to your goal. It can also help boost your workout intensity, according to researchers at Michigan State University. That’s because when you feel like you are part of a team, you are more likely to push yourself harder. Choose a workout partner with a similar fitness level so you challenge yourself a healthy amount but don’t overdo it. It’s also smart to pick a partner with similar goals. Otherwise, you could end up doing more chatting than moving.

Check out a group class
If your solo routine has been ho-hum, switch things up with a group class. If you typically ride the stationary bike, try a spin class for a fresh take on cycling. You can learn something totally new, too. These days, there’s a class for every kind of fitness preference: cardio circuit, weight-based strengthening, dance, yoga and barre. Many gyms include these classes in the cost of membership. You can also look for free or low-cost classes at community centers.

Take your workout outdoors
Tired of trudging away on the treadmill? Head outdoors. Adults who exercise outdoors spend more minutes moving each week than those who only exercise indoors, according to researchers from the University of California, San Diego. Other research also shows that people who exercise outdoors may experience a boost in energy and self-esteem.

Talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.