The pre-spring blues: few of us are immune to them. It's fun to dream about summer weather, and it's a great motivator to keep working hard to attain that bathing suit body you are working toward. Now is not the time to let your routine get stale: It's not good for your mind, or your body, since doing the same workout every day will lose its effectiveness. Here are some tips to mix it up, no matter what type of workout you like.
For Those DVD Disc Jockeys - A DVD is a great way to get a workout in without having to schlep to a class. But if you can narrate your go-to sweat session as well as Shaun T does, you know you've used it one too many times. Investing in a DVD library can get expensive though. Instead, check out DVDs from your actual library, find great options on Netflix or search for dedicated exercise stations on your cable or satellite provider. DVR a few to see what you like and then set a season pass.
If You Favor the Treadmill - Otherwise known as the “dreadmill,” a treadmill workout can get boring fast, unless you mix it up. The incline feature should be your best friend: you will burn more calories in less time, but it also seems as though it takes less effort. Another option is to incorporate intervals into the workout. Kick it up a notch for 30 seconds to one minute at a time, rather than sticking with a steady state of exertion. You'll torch more calories and the time will fly as you clock off time until the next interval. And finally, nothing beats an engaging TV show to keep you going. Tell yourself you'll only watch the next installment of your Netflix binge-of-the-moment if you're walking, climbing, or running.
HIIT Enthusiasts - HIIT workouts (which stand for high-intensity interval training) scorch the calories while you're working out, and the burn continues all throughout the day, even in recovery mode. A typical HIIT format will be an interval of one to two minutes, followed by one minute of recovery. For a full-body workout, alternate a cardio interval with a weight set. The beauty of HIIT is that you can literally do a different workout every day, by switching up the exercises you choose for your intervals. It not only keeps boredom at bay, but will continue to challenge those muscles with the surprise that comes from a new plan. Or, try a Tabata workout, where you work out hard for 20 seconds and rest for 10 seconds, completing 8 rounds of each movement.
Weight Training - The same dumbbell workout can get boring. The best way to freshen up your weight workout is to invest in new devices to challenge the muscles and keep things interesting. Try using kettlebells, resistance bands, or sliding discs to challenge your body in a whole new way.
Take it Outside - Are you a summer runner, biker or hiker? Even in the cold weather you can take your workout outside! Running in the cold can feel refreshing, as long as you're dressed appropriately. Or, try out a winter sport, whether it's snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or ice skating. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!
Whatever your preference, make sure you fuel up appropriately. Promax protein bars can help you power your way through any workout. For more information about Promax, check out our product page or our blog.